Tips on How to Boat with Fido!
Despite the freezing temperature, it's time to look forward to the spring and get ready for the boating season. Part of the fun of boating on the Lake is having our best friends with you, including the four-legged ones! Boating with a pet can be dangerous sometimes, but a well-trained dog can actually be a great addition to your day out on the water. Firstmate Controls knows you want to include your buddy in all of your outdoor fun activities this summer, so we've come up with some helpful tips to follow when taking your dog on a boat. Check out our best tips below!
It's important to have a plan in case something goes awry and your fur-baby falls overboard. Don't leave it to chance. Talk to everyone going out on the water with you so everyone is on the same page with what to do just in case. Just like someone may be the designated driver or have the responsibility of watching the young children on board, it is a good idea to designate someone to keep an eye on the pup as well.
Before leaving, get your dog used to the boat. Let them on the boat while it is docked several times before going out to reinforce that it isn't a scary thing. Turn it on and off to help them get used to the noise as well. For the first several excursions, don't venture far and keep the boat at a slower pace. Even though it may feel like a long process, it will pay off in the long run to make sure your dog feels safe and secure in the boat. The last thing you want is for your buddy to start panicking and trying to get out when you're in the middle of the Lake.
Trying to make sure the whole family and your dog are secure and ready to go is hard enough. If you have to jump in and out of the boat while taking off, your dog could become agitated and confused and try to follow you. Make your life simpler with a Firstmate Boat Lift Remote Control System! The Firstmate systems are capable of being set to up, down, and board positions that make loading and unloading more convenient. That way your dog can safely get on and off the boat without any concern. For more information about our boat lift remote control systems, visit our website or call us at 866-570-9707!
Firstmate Controls
Stay Safe with a Plan
It's important to have a plan in case something goes awry and your fur-baby falls overboard. Don't leave it to chance. Talk to everyone going out on the water with you so everyone is on the same page with what to do just in case. Just like someone may be the designated driver or have the responsibility of watching the young children on board, it is a good idea to designate someone to keep an eye on the pup as well.
Life Jackets
Did you know that there are life jackets made specifically for dogs? Find one with a good rating and that is specified for your dog's size and weight. It is also important to make sure swimmers around your dog have life jackets on. Every now and then, your pet may become tired of swimming, and rather than reboard the boat, they may try to rest on another swimmer. They don't have the same concept of swimming that we do and may not realize that they are pulling you down with their weight. This could cause an emergency that is easily avoidable with life jackets on all swimmers, including the dog.
Food & Water
For quick trips that only last a few hours during the day, you likely won't have to prepare too much. Make sure you have some water in case you notice your dog is feeling dehydrated and panting more than normal. If you are spending a significant amount of time out on the water, however, it is important to make sure your dog is properly nourished and hydrated so they can stay healthy. It is easy for dogs to become overheated due to their thick hair/fur. Be sure to provide a shady place for them to take a break from the sun and rest. (Extra Pro Tip: Find a pet-approved sunscreen and apply to your dog's vulnerable spots well before going out. One of the most important spots to apply sunscreen is usually their snout. There is less hair in this area to protect their sensitive skin.
Get Familiar with the Boat
Before leaving, get your dog used to the boat. Let them on the boat while it is docked several times before going out to reinforce that it isn't a scary thing. Turn it on and off to help them get used to the noise as well. For the first several excursions, don't venture far and keep the boat at a slower pace. Even though it may feel like a long process, it will pay off in the long run to make sure your dog feels safe and secure in the boat. The last thing you want is for your buddy to start panicking and trying to get out when you're in the middle of the Lake.
Firstmate Convenience
Trying to make sure the whole family and your dog are secure and ready to go is hard enough. If you have to jump in and out of the boat while taking off, your dog could become agitated and confused and try to follow you. Make your life simpler with a Firstmate Boat Lift Remote Control System! The Firstmate systems are capable of being set to up, down, and board positions that make loading and unloading more convenient. That way your dog can safely get on and off the boat without any concern. For more information about our boat lift remote control systems, visit our website or call us at 866-570-9707!
Boat Lift Controls You Can Count On!
Firstmate Controls
130 Century Commerce Loop
Labadie, MO 63055
Phone: (866) 570-9707
Comments
Post a Comment