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Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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10 Important Things To Keep Dogs Cool on Boats
If you’re like me, your furry friend is always up for a new adventure, especially when it involves the great outdoors.
I’ve got some experience taking my schnauzer sailing with me. He’s my trusty first mate on light-wind days, always eager to help.
He loves to sit at the bow before the mast and take in all the sights and sounds. And he’s been trained well, so in case we capsize, he knows what to do.
I know that keeping him cool on the boat is the top priority.
So in this article, I will share some tips that I have found helpful for keeping your four-legged companion cool and comfortable on board. Read on.
Key Takeaways
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- Acclimate Gradually: Introduce your dog to boating bit by bit to avoid fear and ensure they are comfortable with water.
- Proper Grooming: Trim excess hair to help keep your dog cool during trips.
- Safety Gear: Use well-fitted life jackets for added safety, especially if your dog tires easily.
- Cooling Vests: Invest in a cooling vest to regulate your dog’s temperature under the sun.
- Hydration: Ensure constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.
- Provide Shade: Use Bimini tops, umbrellas, or sheets to create shaded areas on the boat.
- Cooling Mats: Utilize gel cooling mats for a comfortable resting spot.
- Protect Paws: Cover hot vinyl surfaces with towels or sheets to avoid burns.
- Leash Accessibility: Keep a leash handy for bathroom breaks and safe movement.
- Swimming Opportunities: Allow your dog to swim in shallow water for quick cooling.
1) Get Them Used To It Bit By Bit
Getting your dog comfortable with the water is critical. As you may already know, not all dogs are built for swimming, so it’s essential to be mindful of your pup’s swimming abilities.
Breeds like bulldogs and pugs may not be thrilled about getting in the water, while others like labs and spaniels are natural swimmers.
Also, it’s essential to know your dog’s tendencies ahead of time so they don’t develop a fear of the boat. If your pup loves the water, consider having a pet-friendly ladder on board.
You will also realize that most boat ladders are not designed with our four-legged friends in mind, and getting them back into the boat can be difficult.
Luckily, there are several pet-friendly ladders available from manufacturers. You can also easily find one online.
2) Trim Away Any Excess Hair before the Trip
Before your upcoming boat trip, give your furry friend a little grooming love by trimming away any excess hair.
You might have heard from some dog owners that shaving their pup is the way to go, but that wouldn’t be a good look for our short-haired pooch!
Although dogs naturally shed winter coats to stay cool during summer, extra grooming never hurts. Give your dog a trim to help him stay comfortable.
3) Pay Attention to Your Pup’s Safety Gear
The fact is that not all dogs are natural swimmers. Even those built for the water might need a little extra help sometimes. And that’s where life jackets come in.
Take my schnauzer, for example. Whenever I say “boat ride,” he’s off and running to the pier as fast as possible.
He has webbed feet and loves the water, but he gets tired after a day of excitement and all the heat and exercise.
That’s why I always keep his life jacket on board and have him wear it whenever he’s in the water.
So, keeping a life jacket close by is a good idea. If your dog or pup needs more help staying afloat, they must always wear a life jacket while on the boat.
In addition to that, be sure to choose a life jacket that fits your dog’s size and weight. Many dog-specific life jackets are available on the market, but just like humans, the coat needs to support their weight and keep them afloat.
Be sure to check the size carefully before buying.
4) Invest In a Cooling Vest for Your Furry Friend
You can transform your furry friend’s summer experience with a cooling vest. This simple yet mighty accessory is one of the best ways to keep your pup cool and comfortable on the water.
Just soak the vest in water, wring out any excess, and wrap it around your pup – voila! Your dog’s temperature will drop significantly, keeping them cool and comfortable under the hot sun.
The vest’s reflective material reduces heat absorption and protects against the sun’s rays.
And, if your dog loves playing in the water, they’ll love the vest even more – the constant splashes will ensure it stays damp and effective all day.
5) Have a Hydration Station In Place
Keeping your four-legged friend hydrated while boating with a dedicated hydration station is essential to stay cool and collected!
Just like you pack a cooler with your favorite beverages and ice to keep them cool, ensuring your dog stays hydrated in the heat is equally important.
Avoid the risk of them drinking seawater or lake water and bring a fresh supply of clean water, along with a sturdy pet dish.
These two essential items should be a staple on your boating trips with your dog.
Some boat manufacturers, like Barletta, seem to understand the importance of keeping your furry friend hydrated and even include pet dishes in their helm designs.
So be sure to prioritize your dog’s hydration just as you do your own when hitting the waves.
6) Make Sure There’s a Shade
The point here is to protect your furry friend from the harmful effects of overheating on your boat adventures.
On my pontoon boat, I’ve got it made in the shade with a trusty Bimini top that provides ample cover for my furry friend’s bed.
If your boat isn’t equipped with a Bimini, don’t worry! Deck covers can be a simple solution to creating a cool and comfortable spot for your dog.
However, the sun’s position can change when anchored or moored, leaving some areas exposed to the sun’s rays.
If your dog is anything like mine, he might have a favorite spot that’s not always shaded. You can keep your pooch cool by providing a handy umbrella or strategically placing sheets for added shade.
7) Maximize Your Dog’s Comfort with a Gel Cooling Mat
Have you ever heard of a mat that’s like magic for your furry friend? It’s hard to believe, but the benefits are real.
The one I use to keep my schnauzer from overheating on the boat is the Gel Cooling Mat, a cozy and cool spot for your pup to rest in the shade.
This mat is more than just a place to lounge; it’s a lifesaver for hot days. The unique gel inside the mat works like a temperature-regulating charm, providing cushioning and cooling for up to 3 hours.
And once your pup gets up, the magic gel takes just 20 minutes to recharge and cool down.
No soaking, no refrigeration needed; it’s just pure convenience and comfort for your dog. You can find this favorite cooling mat, the Green Pet Shop Dog Cooling Mat, on Amazon.
Trust me; your dog will thank you for the gift of this amazing mat!
8) Protect His Paws from Burning On Vinyl
If your boat has hot vinyl flooring like my old pontoon boat, it can be tough on both your paws and your dog’s.
Eventually, I had to upgrade to carpet flooring on the deck, which proved to be much more comfortable, but if you don’t have that option, you can lay down towels or sheets on any vinyl flooring to prevent paw burns.
Also, you can keep things cool by spraying the towels or sheets with water or dipping them into the water- remember to squeeze out any excess water. This can help provide some extra relief from the heat.
9) Keeping a Leash Handy
If you spend a long day out on the water, it’s important to remember that your furry friend will need to relieve itself at some point, especially given the need to stay hydrated.
So it’s best to be prepared and have a leash on hand. In case of unexpected pit stops, the leash will be handy so your dog can comfortably do their business.
If you don’t plan on making a pit stop, try to let them relieve themselves before you set off on your boating adventure.
However, if your dog is prone to accidents, keeping them home during extended boat trips is best.
Otherwise, just like us, they need a bathroom break. So make sure you’re fully equipped to handle it.
10) Splash into the Cooling Bliss
Lastly, and probably the most apparent solution, let your furry friend dive into the water. A good soaking is the quickest way for your dog to beat the heat.
However, not all dogs are great swimmers, so keep this in mind and only let them swim in shallower waters.
But for larger dogs who love the water, you can encourage them to jump in and play. To ensure your pooch is safe, consider getting a life jacket.
Soaking in water is the most effective way to reduce their temperature, making it an essential tool in your heat-beating arsenal.
Additional Tips to Sail Smoothly With Your Dog
Stay calm, and your dog will follow suit.
Please bring along your pup’s comfort item, like their favorite blanket. This will help your dog to adjust quickly and comfortably.
Map out your journey ahead, breaking it into smaller segments, and consider where you’ll anchor and the fun adventures you can have on shore.
Opt for a slower pace and tranquil waters with frequent breaks. This will help your dog to have a fantastic time on the boat.
Conclusion
Bringing your furry friend along for a day on the boat is always fun, but keeping them comfortable in the hot weather is also essential.
I hope these tips will help ensure your dog has a blast on the water. Just keep in mind that every dog is different. Some may take to boating like a fish to water, while others may not be as comfortable.
Boating with your dog can be an enjoyable adventure if you take steps to keep them cool and safe. Start by gradually getting your dog accustomed to the boat and water. Ensure proper grooming by trimming excess hair to help them stay cool. Safety gear, such as life jackets, is crucial, especially for dogs not natural swimmers or tire easily.
Cooling vests are a practical investment, as they significantly reduce your dog’s body temperature. Hydration is essential, so always have fresh water and a pet dish available. Providing shade is vital; Bimini tops, umbrellas, or sheets can create a cool spot for your dog.
Gel cooling mats offer a comfortable and cool place for your dog to rest. To protect their paws from hot vinyl surfaces, use towels or sheets. Always have a leash ready for bathroom breaks and safe movement on the boat. Lastly, swimming is an effective way for dogs to cool down, so encourage them to take a dip in shallow waters.
Additional tips include staying calm to keep your dog relaxed, bringing their favorite comfort item, planning your journey with breaks, and opting for calm waters. These measures will ensure a smooth and enjoyable boating experience for you and your furry friend.
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