Taking your dog out on the water is one of life's great
pleasures. There is something genuinely special about watching your four-legged
mate enjoy the breeze at the bow or settle in contentedly beside you at the
helm. Whether you are heading out on a Stabicraft
boat for a day of offshore fishing, cruising the estuary in a Seacruiser
boat, or exploring local waterways in one of the popular Quintrex boats,
bringing your dog along requires a little extra preparation to keep both your
pet and your crew safe and comfortable.
Get Your Dog Comfortable with the Boat First
Before heading out on the open water, take time to introduce
your dog to the boat while it is still on the trailer at home or at the ramp.
Let them explore the deck, sniff around, and get comfortable with the surfaces,
sounds, and smells before the engine starts. Gradually introduce engine noise
and gentle movement before attempting longer trips. Dogs that are rushed into
boating without proper introduction are far more likely to become anxious,
distressed, or unpredictable on the water.
Always Fit a Canine Life Jacket
Just as every person on board should wear a life jacket in
appropriate conditions, your dog deserves the same protection. A well-fitted
canine life jacket keeps your dog buoyant if they go overboard and makes it
significantly easier to retrieve them from the water. Look for a jacket with a
sturdy handle on the back, which is invaluable for lifting your dog back
aboard. Most good boat stores and marine retailers carry a range of sizes to
suit dogs of all breeds. Your local tackle shack may also stock or be able to
order suitable options for smaller dogs.
Create a Comfy and Safe Spot For Your Doggie
Designate a specific area of the boat as your dog's space
and outfit it with a non-slip mat or pad. The grippy surfaces of vessels like
Quintrex boats and Stabicraft boats help, but an additional non-slip mat gives
your dog added security and comfort underway. Keep your dog away from the bow
when running at speed and ensure they cannot easily access the gunwales or
transom without supervision. A comfortable, shaded spot with good airflow keeps
your dog relaxed and settled throughout the trip.
Bring Plenty of Fresh Water
Salt air and sun dehydrate dogs quickly, and they cannot
help themselves to a drink the way they might at home. Bring more fresh water
than you think you will need and offer it to your dog regularly throughout the
trip. A collapsible travel bowl takes up minimal space and is easy to store in
any of the under-seat compartments common on Seacruiser
boats and similar vessels. Never allow your dog to drink saltwater, as it
causes rapid dehydration and can make them seriously ill.
Pack the Essentials From Your Boat Stores and Tackle
Shack
A day on the water with your dog calls for a few extra
supplies beyond the standard boating kit. Sunscreen formulated for dogs,
particularly for pink-skinned or short-haired breeds, protects exposed skin
from sunburn during long days on the water. Dog-friendly insect repellent is
also worth considering in areas where sandflies and mosquitoes are prevalent.
Pick up these items from your local boat stores or tackle shack alongside your
regular boating supplies so everything is ready before departure day.
Know When To Leave Them At Home
As much as your dog may love the water, there are trips
where bringing them along is not the right call. Long offshore runs in rough
conditions, extended overnight trips, or days when the forecast is uncertain
are all situations where your dog is better off staying home in comfort.
Knowing when to leave them behind is part of being a responsible and caring pet
owner on the water.
With the right preparation and a little extra thought,
boating with your dog becomes one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy time on
the water together.