Summer is just around the corner and what better way to kick-start your summer than a boat trip with your dog! Before you set your sails, read these 7 tips on keeping your four-legged friend safe on your boating adventures.

Life Jacket

When it comes to boating trips with your trusty companion, remember to put a personal flotation device on them. They’ll love you for it when they’re swimming around playing around in the water. There are different types of life jackets for dogs so before you strap one on for they make sure you got the right sized jacket.

Dogs really enjoy swimming, just as much as we do! Swimming is also a great way for your dog to cool off during the scorching hot summer days. Forget walking your dog, let them swim to get their daily exercise while having a bit of fun at the same time!

Emergency Safety Kit

When it comes to your dog’s health and safety, an emergency safety kit will do wonders. I’m not just talking about doggie bandages; I’m also talking about doggie treats and toys. Being properly prepared on your boating trip with your dog will make your trip ten times better. Some emergency items to pack on your trip:

Extra Towels or Blankets

An extra dry towel for your dog will be helpful when all you have are wet towels still waiting to dry. This is especially helpful to keep your dog warm after playing in the cold water.

Doggie Treats

What dog doesn’t like doggie treats! It’s always nice to reward your dog when they’ve done a heroic act or simply behaving well.

Spare Poop Bags

This is self-explanatory. If your dog needs to go, they’ll go.

Let Pet Explore Docked Boat

Before you and your dog set off on your excursion, let the dog sniff around the boat prior to leaving the dock. This lets your dog get acclimated to the small space and the sensation of being on the water.

Bring Fresh Water

Pack collapsible food and water bowls with the fresh, bottled water to keep your dog hydrated. The body of water where you are boating might not be safe for dogs (or humans) to drink. Water is especially important if it’s a hot, summer day.

Can Your Pet Swim?

Your first reaction might be, “of course he can; he’s a dog!” While many dogs ARE great swimmers, they aren’t born innately knowing how to swim. Some dogs just don’t like water and dogs should never be forced into the water without knowing how to swim or if they don’t enjoy it.

Apply Sunscreen

Yes, dogs can get sunburnt, too! Many pet stores sell special sunscreen made just for dogs. If you can’t find dog sunscreen, the ones for babies or sensitive skin might be okay. Read the label first!

Practice with a Short Trip

You’re ready to go boating with your dog. If it is your dog’s first time, you should keep the maiden voyage short and sweet. With that, you’re all set to embark on your boating adventure.

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Boating is a centuries-old recreational activity which is still very fun for fishermen who want to chase a good catch as well as families wanting to enjoy time together on the water. Just like most activities in life, boating comes with its own set of hazards like personal injuries, the risk of drowning, a failed motor which could lead to getting stranded on the water and being caught in extreme weather conditions.

In order to enjoy safe boating, it is essential to have the right equipment every time you go onto the water so that you can be ready to handle any unexpected problems that you may encounter.

Ensure that you have the necessary safety tools on your boat every time. Some tools you may want to consider include:

Life Vests

Make sure that you have enough life vests on your boat for every passenger and that they are the right sizes.  Since life vests come in different sizes, styles and buoyancy ratings, one which works well for an adult may not work well for a child and vice versa. You will want to make sure your boat has US Coast Guard approved buoyancy devices in a size appropriate for each passenger.

It is also important to inspect the jackets annually to ensure that they are in proper condition and replace them when they become worn.

Fire Extinguisher

Overlooking this vital item is one of the biggest mistakes that boaters can make. Boat engines and wiring, just like any other motor-operated equipment, is prone to fires. Fire can be a big concern on the water. Before you head, ensure that you have a charged extinguisher on your boat that is in good working condition.

First Aid Kit

This is a must-have item which serves a wide range of uses, ranging from treating a sunburn, insects bites to severe cuts. Lack of a first aid kit can turn a minor injury into a major problem. Premade first aid kits can readily be found at your boating supply store, local drug store and even on Amazon. Be sure to check the contents of the kit at least once a year as some first aid items may expire over time.

VHF Radio

Sometimes in life, we run into trouble, and we may need help. If your boat happens to a breakdown in the water, or you need emergency assistance, you will need a communication device to alert others of your problem. This could be a request for rescue services or a call for a tow in. VHF Radios come in handy at such times.

They come in various sizes, from handheld to larger fixed mount sizes with different features and distance ranges. Before leaving the dock, make sure that you have the right type of VHF radio. Your local boating supply store can help you with making sure you have the right size and type for your boat. Remember, channel 16 is the International Distress channel and can be used to reach emergency assistance if necessary on the water.

Rescue Strobe Light

This is an item which makes it easy for you to get located if you need assistance and it is not expensive. It has a high-intensity flashing beacon which is visible several miles away. It’s available in several styles including those that gets mounted on the boat to ones that are attached to life vests. This makes a great addition to the safety equipment on your vessel.

The items as mentioned above are some of the necessary safety devices that you should have to stay safe on the water regardless of the type or size of the vessel you are using. You may need additional items pke weather instruments or a GPS. Local boaters, your boating supply store, and boating clubs can help with other items that are useful for your vessel. You can protect yourself on the water in many other ways, so, ensure that you have the right equipment in good working condition.

If you’re looking for a Boat Storage Facipty to securely store your boat, Agua Dulce Storage has got you covered! Here at Agua Dulce Storage, we offer a wide selection of parking units to accommodate for your need. To learn more about our storage facipty, please check out our website at https://aguadulcestorage.com/.