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

Upside Down Dog Of The Week – Penny

Talk about the dog days of summer! It looks like our Upside Down Dog of the Week, Penny, from Upsidedowndog.com is taking advantage of all the sunny days she…
Dog Daycare or Dog Walker: Which One Should You Choose?

Does it make more sense to hire a dog walker or put your pup in doggy day? Ask yourself a few questions to figure out which option suits you best.
California Spangled

California Spangled bred in order to produce a domestic pet that would resemble the appearance of wild cats, such as the leopard and the ocelot.
Istrian Shorthaired Hound

The Istrian Shorthaired Hound is a hunting dog, not a household pet. This active working dog is a calm and even-tempered breed.
Eurasier

The Eurasier is a fairly new breed, having only originated in Germany as recently as 1960. It is an intelligent, highly trainable and calm breed.
Tricky Tips On How To Hide Your Dog’s Medicine

Dog medicine can taste bitter, making it a hard pill to swallow. Here are some tricky tips that hide the bad taste and keep your dog from spitting it up.
Gato

The Gato is an exotic cat breed that has a combination of traits from a few different felines, including the Siamese, the Himalayan, and the Egyptian Mau.
What Is Megaesophagus in Cats?

A big word and a big problem. What is megaesophagus in cats, what are this disorder''s causes and how do you treat it? Read on to find out.
Wax On or Wax Off – What You Need to Know About Paw Wax

What have you heard about paw wax? Kevin Roberts clears up a few common myths about paw wax and the right way to use it on your dog''s paws.
What Factors Influence Dog Insurance Rates?

Although we can''t give you an exact amount you''d pay for dog insurance, we can let you in on some of the factors that affect dog insurance rates.
Florida Box Turtle

The Florida Box Turtle is an attractive breed, but these animals are high-maintenance, so they aren''t the best for those who are beginners at turtle care.
Pom-Coton

The loving, kind nature of these small dogs, as well as their ease of trainability, can be considered the reason why Pom-Coton dogs are so popular.
Top 10 Best Guard Dogs

A dog is more than just a pet - a dog can be a companion, a friend and even a security measure for your home and family. Our picks for best guard dogs.
Home Remedies for Cat Vomiting

It''s not pretty, but it may be something you can treat at home. Here are some ideas on some home remedies for cat vomiting.
Chug

If you can''t decide between a Pug or a Chihuahua, you may be able to get the best of both worlds with a crossbreed called the Chug. Perfect lap-sized dog.