A Guide to Boating With Your Pets

Pet owners love to spend time with their furry friends, so it can be heartbreaking to have to leave your pet at home when it's time for a boating trip. Luckily, with a little preparation, some pets can actually join in on the fun. By following Poplar Pointe Marine’s helpful guide, you’ll be enjoying boating with your pet in no time. Please note that we will be focusing on dogs and cats in this article. Different pets will be subject to different rules.

1. Acclimate Your Pet to the Boat

Going on a boat is an unfamiliar experience for pets. Many of them will find it a bit scary the first time, so take steps to acclimate them beforehand. Take them on a walk around the marina, and then allow them to explore your boat. Keep them on a leash at all times, and provide them with treats and toys to help keep their anxiety down. Speak to them in a calm and soothing manner. Your first boat outing with your pet should just be a brief trial run to determine if they can handle it.

2. Tag Your Pet

This should go without saying, but your dog or cat should have a collar with your name and contact details. Some owners may choose to microchip their pets to make finding them easier. Whatever you choose to do, make sure that you take precautions in case you become separated from your pet.

3. Get a Pet-Sized Life Jacket

Some breeds of dogs and cats love the water and are excellent swimmers. However, no matter the breed, a strong current can sweep them out from shore. Make sure your pet has an appropriately sized life jacket with handles so that you can quickly grab your pet and pull them back into the boat if needed.

4. Carry a Pet First-Aid Kit

In addition to your regular first-aid kit, you will need to carry medical supplies for your pet. You can choose to buy a pet first aid kit or create your own. If you choose to create your own, make sure you have gauze pads, adhesive tape, cotton swabs or balls, 3% hydrogen peroxide ( induces vomiting, check with your veterinarian beforehand), ice packs, nitrile gloves, tweezers, blunt scissors, antibiotic cream, towels, alcohol wipes, and your pet’s veterinary information. A list of local vet and emergency clinics doesn’t hurt either.

5. Keep Your Pet Hydrated

Pets can become dehydrated too, so have water available, especially on hot and sunny days. Consider purchasing a collapsible pet bowl to save space.

6. Provide a Potty Space

Put a litter box or training pad in a secluded area so that your pet can do their business in peace.

7. Harness Your Pet

Collars are good for holding tags, but to keep your pet under control without hurting them you should use a harness and leash. Connecting the leash directly to the collar can hurt your pet if they try to pull away from you.

For more information about bringing your pet on a boating trip or to view boat models, visit Poplar Pointe Marine. Our dealership in Bracey, Virginia is conveniently located within an hour and a half of Richmond, Virginia, and Raleigh, North Carolina.