Things to Consider Before Bringing Your Pet on a Boat
You can bring your cat or dog on the boat. What's the big deal? Right? Many people want to spend quality time on the water with their pets and think it would not create any problems. Well, it is correct. You can bring your pet on board your vessel with some precautions.
We will look at the considerations to ensure that you and your pet stay safe and enjoy your time on the water.
Introduction is Essential
Different animals have different likings. Sometimes a cat likes to swim, while a dog may not want to take a bath on any given day. You are the best to know what your pet loves to do. It is better to give them an excellent small intro to the water. You will see whether they feel comfortable on the vessel or not.
You can initially take your dog or cat on the boat while it is docked. Allow your pet to roam on the deck, cabin, and other parts freely and safely. With your vessel tied up, notice their reaction when the water creates motion for the boat. They might sense fear and show panic behaviour at first. Don't force them to stay on the vessel if they react in such a way. You can try getting them on the boat again after some time. When you do this several times, they might start feeling comfortable on your vessel.
Check for the Safety Equipment
Safety is critical when you go boating or fishing with your pet, friends, family, crew, or alone. Our previous posts identified some top boat safety tips you can follow while going on the water. The same goes for your pet as well. Many brands in the market provide animal safety jackets and other supplies. You can contact your local marine supply store on Port Alberni, Vancouver Island, to check for the stock of life jackets for animals like dogs, cats, etc. You can even search online for the same. Look for the fittings as per your pet's size and get the suitable one.
Take a Small Round and Improve
Once your pet gets used to staying on the boat, please give them a short trip near the shore. For this purpose, you can contact a boat dealership to get offshore fishing boats for sale in BC. Sometimes, animals hate the engine's voice, be it your vacuum cleaner or a boat engine. Analyze the progress in their behaviour on the running boat. If your cat or dog feels comfortable on the vessel, you are good to go to your favourite fishing spots in BC with your pet!
How About a Test Swim?
Not all pets love swimming. Often people believe that if a dog can swim well in a pool, it can swim in the seawater without any problem. However, they forget that any pet can and do fatigue quickly. It's better to know how long your pet can swim in different water conditions. We recommend using a quality life vest per your pet's size to ensure safety.
It will also help if you manage the time for the swim. Please do not make your pets swim until they get tired and find it challenging to swim independently. You can give them enough time to get used to the water condition. Then get them on the deck, dry off, and reward them with a small treat. It will encourage your pet to do better next time.
A Few More Things to Consider
- Bring some puppy pads, paper towels, a litter box, and other specific supplies on your vessel. While it will help your cat or dog to attend the nature's call, you can keep the deck, floors, and other surfaces clean.
- Your furry friend is not habitual of sun exposure for a long time. They can get dehydrated quickly. It will help if you have extra drinking water storage on the boat. If your vessel does not have any structure to protect your pet from direct sunlight, bring a small bed or pet blanket along with a hat for your dear friend.
- Sunscreen can also help in giving some protection from the sun's rays. Make sure it is pet friendly before applying.
- Keep the contact of your vet on hand. If you feel your pet sounds vomiting, tired, distressed, or weird, return to the shore and consult the vet immediately.
Conclusion
Do not forget to have a first aid kit on the water. It will be helpful for both you and your pet. Check the local government rules for bringing pets on the vessel before going on the trip. Once you follow all the rules and safety considerations, it's time to go on a thrilling adventure with your little friend.
Suppose you are looking for the perfect boat and outboard motors for sale or the trusted boat dealers in Port Alberni, BC, to make your trip memorable. In that case, you can connect with Alberni Power & Marine. Our experienced team of experts will help you take all the necessary supplies and precautions on your vessel. With the proper preparations, you and your best friend can have a memorable time to cherish. So, get ready & go, and have fun!