7 Great Tips for Boating with Pets

Boating is a great pass time to spend with your friends and family - including our fur family. When taking pets boating, it is important to be prepared to ensure a fun, safe lake day.

Safety First

An easy important tip is to invest in a life jacket for your pet. Even if your pet is a fantastic swimmer, they are easily fatigued if they are in the water for a while. It’s a good idea to have them wear a life jacket, just in case. These life jackets can be found at most boating stores or pet shops including Hickory Hill Pets located at Harmony Crossing. When purchasing the life jackets, it’s important to consider the following: fit, size, style, comfort, and lifting handles for easy retrieval of your pet. Have your pet try it on and test it out before taking them out on the boat with you to make sure it is effective.

Hydrate Furry Friends Too

It is also important to bring plenty of fresh water for your pet to drink. Freshwater lakes are often contaminated with pollutants that are harmful for animals, so having a supply of water for them is best to ensure they are staying hydrated.

Protect Fur Babies

In addition to water, some pets, especially short haired breeds, need a light layer of sunscreen (around SPF 15) to protect them from getting sunburned.

Lake Dining

If you plan to stop at a pet friendly place for lunch, such as Georgia Butts BBQ, be sure to pack the appropriate collars and leashes you need for your pet.

If anything were to happen, it is important that your pet has the right identification. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with accurate information, just in case they get separated from you.

Accidents Happen

You should also have a plan for how your pet will relieve itself, and pack the appropriate items you would need for that.

Better Safe Than Sorry

Also, have a plan prepared just in case your pet goes overboard, as well as make sure you have a first aid kit on board if needed.

All of these tips will make your boating experience with your pet easier and less stressful. The more you think ahead and prepare for your pet, the more time you have to focus on having a fun and memorable lake day.

Comment your favorite tips for boating with your pets!