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Tips for Pet Travel on Boats
Tips for Pet Travel on Boats
TripsWithPets.com offers these tips for taking your dog
on a boat to keep him safe and happy.
by Steve Johnson, staff
July 14, 2004
Summertime means family outings, vacations and trips, and
well as lakes, rivers, fishing, and boat cruises. For most
dog owners, spending time on a boat means leaving their canine
pals behind. But it doesn't have to be that way according
to TripsWithPets.com, an online travel service that caters
to pet owners.
They've recently offered some tips to pet owners on how to
keep our furry friends safe and happy while travelling or
venturing out on a boat:
Heading out on the water, make sure pets have a collar
with an identification tag. Include contact information,
marina address and slip number.
It is best to gradually introduce pets to boats and water.
Let pets explore the boat while it is docked before going
out on the water. Then, take pets out on small cruises and
gradually build up to longer cruises.
After pets are ready for a cruise, ensure safety with a
few steps. First, provide a ramp for pets to climb back
onto boats. Pets can weigh much more wet than dry and can
be difficult to lift back into boats.
A canine floatation device can also ensure safety while
on the water. Even if pets are good swimmers, getting tossed
overboard can put any animal into panic. Help pets get used
to device by first practicing at home for short periods
of time.
Pets do not sweat, so keep an eye out for heavy panting
or droll and a rapid heart beat. Protect pets from heat
by providing some shade on the boat, providing plenty of
water and keeping the deck cool with water to protect paw
pads. It is critical to hydrate pets before they get into
the water. Otherwise, they will drink the natural water
and could get sick.
When it is time to go ashore, there are just a few things
to remember. Always keep a copy of vaccination and health
records. Some places may require proof of immunization before
letting pets explore on land.
Check ahead before arriving on shore. Some marinas, parks
and wildlife areas do not allow pets. However, there are
plenty of marinas and parks that welcome pets.
For more information on pet boating gear, pet-friendly lodging
and recreational activities visit www.tripswithpets.com.
Trips with Pets, Inc. is the leading online source for pet friendly
travel, offering resources for pet travelers to ensure they
are welcome, happy, and safe when traveling. They offer online
directories of pet friendly lodging across the U.S., pet hospitals
and pet recreational activities, airline pet policies, pet travel
supplies, along with other pet travel resources.
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