Top 5 Pet Boating Blunders and How to Avoid Them

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Even the savviest of land-lubbers can make some bone-headed mistakes when it comes to our pets. Our friends at BoatUS share some tips to help keep you and your pet safe while out boating.

The staff at Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) have likely seen it all when it comes to boating incidents with pets, and they’ve lived to tell about it! And although they may know a thing or two about boating, it doesn’t mean they haven’t had to learn the hard way. Several members of BoatUS were kind enough to share their summer boating experiences – and in doing so, give some tips on what to do (or NOT) when taking your furry (or reptilian!) friend on an outing!

ADVERTISEMENT

1. Be sure your pet can swim before taking him or her on board.

“As someone who has had to haul a Golden Retriever onto the swim step of a large motorboat, I’d suggest making sure the dog can swim before coming aboard the boat.” –Kerry

Related:Why Your Dog Needs A Life Jacket

2. Remember that animals can suffer from the effects of engine fumes and can become seasick.

“Engine fumes and seasickness can affect pets, too. Thank goodness for snap-out washable boat carpets! I try to ensure the dog is not in an enclosed space, and can see the horizon and I avoid having him sit aft where engine fumes can backdraft onto the cockpit floor. Boaters should also have a CO (carbon monoxide) alarm in the cabin regardless.”–Jerry

3. Be sure you have an emergency retrieval plan.

“Cat lovers suggest hanging indoor/outdoor carpet or rope over the transom so cats can climb back aboard if they fall overboard. I once tried to dry out a wet cat with a hair dryer and it didn’t go so well. While a few cats don’t mind loud noises and may even let you vacuum them, a soft towel or chamois is better for drying off your little Lion King.”–Ted

Related:Why do cats hate water?

4) Make a boat hook part of your emergency retrieval plan.

“I always keep a boat hook handy for retrieving just in case. It’s also easier to grab a dog when he’s wearing his lifejacket, and you can lift from the handle on his back.”–Claire in BoatUS Publications

5) Boat insurance may be needed.

“In the BoatUS Marine Insurance Program’s Claims Department we recently had a claim on an iguana bite that necessitated nose reconstruction. The message? Don’t tick off the iguana.”–Kerry

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Top 10 Flea and Tick Prevention Tips

It''s flea and tick season, so we''ve put together our Top 10 tips on how to get rid of those pesky critters. YWe''ve got a few surprises in store for you!
Product Review: Push Pushi Raincoats

To infinity… and beyond the dog park! Push Pushi Raincoats prepare your dog for rain and space adventure (or at least just look like it) I’ve ne…
Hooray for Happy Endings! Meet Skier Gus Kenworthy’s Sochi Street Pu

7 months after the Olympic Winter Games, the puppies that American silver medal skier Gus Kenworthy rescued from the streets of Sochi are thriving. You might…
Dog Braces for Teeth: What You Need to Know

Yes, there is such a thing as dog braces for teeth. Let''s go over what you need to know about dog braces and if your pooch needs them.
The Honest Kitchen Starter Kit Contest

This month, we’re all about nutrition. That’s why this week we’ll be giving away The Honest Kitchen Starter Kit. And to win it, all you nee…
Palliative Pet Care Aiming to Serve Emerging Market

With 69 percent of pet owners who treat their pet as family members, palliative pet care gives beloved pets sympathetic end of life care.
Green Winged Macaw

Easily one of the largest of all Macaw parrots, the Green Winged Macaw is a fantastic bird that will make a great lifelong companion to a lucky owner!
Cavachon

If you can''t make up your mind between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise, the Cavachon may be just the dog you are looking for.
5 Ridiculous Myths About Rescue Dogs

You''ve heard the myths surrounding rescue dogs, and they may have prevented you from adopting one. We''re here to clear up some of the popular misconceptions
Top 10 Products To Keep Your Dog’s Paws Safe This Winter

Our dog''s tootsies need protecting during the cold weather, so here are the top 10 products to protect your dog''s paws this winter.
Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula Leopard Dog is driven and has a strong work ethic. Although the Catahoula Leopard Dog loves his family, he can be a dominant and willful dog.
Checkered Giant Rabbit

The Checkered Giant was first known as the Land Kaninchen. It has a muscular build and a long, hare-like body with a semi-arched/mandolin body type.
Longdog

The Longdog is s cross between a Greyhound, plus another sightseeing hound such as a Whippet, Scottish Deerhound and Saluki.
Schipperke

Well-suited for closed environments, the Schipperke is energetic and playful. The Schipperke is versatile and can make a great addition to your household.
Giant Spitz

The Giant Spitz lives up to its name with his classic, spitz-like characteristics and his large size. These dogs were traditionally used for guarding.