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

Survey Says Pet Parents Celebrate Their Pets More Than Ever

According to the results of a new study from Mars Petcare US, pet parents celebrate their furbabies with paw-tastic parties.
Almond Butter Dog Treat Recipe

I bought some new cookie cutters and I couldn’t wait to try them out. And the Almond Butter Dog Treat Recipe was the perfect dough to sink them into. Not onl…
Gift Guide: Must-Have Essentials For The Holidays

It''s that time of year, and you know your best pal is at the top of the good list. The holidays are bustling, and we want to make sure you have all the holiday must-haves.
Red Capped Parrot

The Red Capped Parrot might be recognizable for its colorful and vibrant appearance, but they also have a lovely personality.
Beagle

The Beagle''s unique identity is thanks to its easy-going and easy-to-get-along-with nature.For many people, a Beagle is a perfect addition to the home.
Upside Down Dog Of The Week – Moose

Meet Moose, the winner of Upsidedowndog.com’s Upside Down Dog of the Week. He is a 1-year-old Chocolate Labrador Retriever from Quebec, Canada. His own…
Flagfish

Flagfish are a small fish that are semi-aggressive in nature. These fish may not do well if multiple males of the same species are kept together.
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.
Up The Creek: Adventures In Canine Canoeing Part 2

In Part 2 of his canine canoeing expedition, Kevin Roberts and his crew run into some problems finding the right campsite and take part in a stare-off contes…
Making The Switch To A Raw Food Diet For Dogs?

We''ve been intrigued with all the talk about the raw food diet for dogs. We wanted to get a first-hand account of a pet parent who feeds their dog this diet
Hockey Hounds Make a Power Play With PetSmart’s Maple Leafs Line

When the puck drops this season, what will your pup be wearing? Share your Leaf Nation pride with your dog with Petsmart''s exclusive Maple Leaf Line.
Goldmation

The family-friendly Goldmation brings together the spirited, playful nature of the Dalmatian and the sweet, gentle personality of the Golden Retriever.
Upside Down Dog Of The Week – Lola

This is Lola, our Upside Down Dog of the Week from Upsidedowndogs.com. Lola is a 3-year-old female Bull Terrier Mix from Brussels, Belgium. Here’s what…
Toxirn

The confident little Toxirn brings the sassy but devoted nature of the Chihuahua together with the spirited, playful personality of the Cairn Terrier.
English Foxhound

Originally bred as a hunting dog, the English Foxhound is an iconic symbol of the British Hunt. It is a strongly built breed and has muscular legs.