You’re dreaming of taking your pet away with you to sail on the open sea, but you’re cautious about how it’ll all work out. Bringing your pets onboard is possible, so long as you put the preparation and planning in beforehand. And while the initial part of the boat trip with your companion may not be smooth sailing but, over time when you’ve sorted out a few niggly bits, you will be able to start enjoying your time together away!
To get the most out of your Yacht charter Greece journey or other destination across the big blue, here are a few things you can do to prepare your furry friend for their upcoming voyage.
Sea Sickness
The waves of the ocean are both a beauty and a curse. Particularly for those susceptible to seasickness. A funny tummy can affect your pet’s wellbeing. So, it’s best to do what you can to prepare for and hopefully conquer the problem or at least lessen its effects on your pets.
As a remedy, it’s often advised not to overfeed and spoil your pets with too much food while sailing. And instead, consider halving their portions for a little while, to reduce any stomach upset. While at the vets, ask if they can prescribe any medication to ease your pet’s troubles out on the water.
Sun Protection
Don’t be too alarmed if your pet wants to stretch out on deck from time to time to get their much-needed dose of Vitamin D. However, do be wary when they’re spending long periods of time in direct sunlight. Too much sun exposure can cause fatigue and dehydration in pets.
As a solution, while sailing, make sure there are a few shady spots onboard for your pets to rest and gain some respite. And don’t forget to provide a few bowls of fresh cold water in different areas of the boat.
Pets Relaxation Spot
Making a space on the boat devoted to your pet is essential. If you’re sailing with other family members, be sure to let them know that they need to leave your family cat or dog, etc., alone when they are in their relaxation spot.
In your pets’ dedicated area, add some home comforts, such as their bedding and chewy toys. Having room to rest in the cabin cruiser is necessary for pets to help them adapt to living on the boat while sailing.
Practice Sailing
If you have a chance to try out the waters with your pet, take it! It’ll help your pet become familiar with sailing.
It’s expected that most pets will be apprehensive during their first few times on a boat. But introducing them to the boat in small doses, and taking them on shorter sailing trips, can help prepare them for your trip. For instance, think of considering a luxury yacht charter for a couple of days before your big trip, just so your pet can adjust smoothly to the limited space and the movement of the boat on the waves.
Games Onboard
Keeping active animals entertained on deck is necessary to quell boredom and ensure they’re enjoying their holiday time as much as you are.
If your boat is enclosed at the sides, you may be able to throw a small ball around for the dog. But of course, be careful and take precautions, as you don’t want any of your pets going overboard.
Pet Life Jacket
Once your pet pooch has gained confidence on deck, they’ll likely want to dive into the sea for a splash. To ensure they’re safe, it’s essential to equip them with a pet life jacket.
Before you head out on your holidays, take time to test out the life jacket you’ve purchased on your pet to see if it fits well and can adequately support your pet’s weight when they are in the water.
Pet Passports
The purpose of pet passports is to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date before you travel, and their health is all clear. This is partly to prevent the risk of spreading illness or disease in other countries.
Always research the destinations you’re visiting beforehand to see whether you need pet passports and vaccinations for your companions and whether a country accepts pets as visitors. Some locations, particularly at the moment, are refusing newcomers because of the global pandemic. At the same time, places like Jamaica do not allow people to import animals at all.
For this step, research and submit the required documentation to the islands you plan on visiting in advance to avoid any mishaps on arrival!
To emphasize the seriousness of ensuring your pet is safe and allowed to travel to an island, if you fail to comply with a country’s immigration laws, you could risk that your pet could be put in quarantine away from you, you may experience large fees for breaking a countries laws or, in the worst-case scenario, your pet could be euthanized.
Health Check
Checking in with your pet’s vet before you go gives you the chance to mention the journey you’re planning out to sea and ask for any tips they might have to keep your pet relaxed and comfortable. But more importantly, it allows you to see whether your pet’s health is in good condition and book the vaccinations they need before they travel away.
For a safe, smooth sailing trip with your pet, extensive research, planning, and preparation are crucial. The top priorities to sort first are pet passports and life jackets for their safety on board.
With the guidance above, your pets will be well prepared for their trip ahead, and you can experience a stress-free, enriched voyage with your furry family members by your side.
