Have a Boat-Loving Dog? Here’s What You Need to Know.

This post isn’t for Landlubber Lassies. It’s prime advice for boat-loving dog owners. We all love watching that ecstatic Chihuahua bobbing through the surf in his life vest, tethered to his grinning owner. The German Shepherd at the sandbar determined to bury that stick under two feet of water. Whether your dog is happy on the boat or off, here are a few tips to keep him safe on every voyage.

• Secure all fuzzy friends when you set sail. Too many horror stories are told about a dog flying off during turbulent conditions, only to paddle desperately until he’s (hopefully) discovered by a passing vessel. You make sure to secure fishing equipment and other accoutrements. Don’t forget your favorite passenger, too.
• Invest in a pet-friendly First Aid kit. This can include Fido’s medical records, hydrogen peroxide (in case one of those sharp barnacles causes a scrape), antibiotic gel, disposable gloves (for you) and wound dressing (for dog). Even if you don’t expect to be offshore for long, it’s necessary to have the supplies at the ready in case of emergency.
• Ensure adequate hydration before, during, and after a boat ride. Always have water at the ready for your dog. Just because a canine is panting and looks as if he is ‘smiling,’ he can be in distress.
• Consider sunscreen. If your dog has a light coat, he may be susceptible to sun damage. It may take some experimentation to find the right formula that works for your pet; after all, the idea of goopy sunscreen being matted in the dog’s coat is not ideal. Sprays may offer a better means of application and coverage.
• Ask yourself this very honest question: Does your dog like the boat? If your dog prefers days spent at his perch atop the couch, where he can watch the comings-and-goings of the postman, don’t force the issue. A dog who doesn’t like the water (or, as an extension, the boat) will be more likely to ‘jump ship.’ If your dog is more into naps than nautical pursuits, there’s little you can likely do to change that.

Whether you have the dog vying for “Best Boat Dog of the Year” or “Laziest Beagle Ever,” it’s a solid bet to consider pet insurance. W3 Insurance can help with that. Find a quote today:

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