Your dog is part of the family, and enjoys outdoor adventures just as much as the humans do. You're not alone in wanting to include your dog in your holiday plans this year. Dogs Trust found a whopping 70% of dog owners take their four-legged friends on holiday, according The Guardian newspaper. Would some outdoor pursuits make you think twice? A family boat adventure is a case in point, but there's no reason your furry friends shouldn't join in the fun. Boating through the tranquil waters of the canal network, or the many inshore lakes we can access, with your four-legged friends alongside is the sort of thing that lifetime memories are made of.
But how do you do it right if you've never sailed with a dog before? Like many dog owners, chances are high that you often travel with your pooch in a car. Just like car trips, boat rides with your furry friend can be thrilling when properly planned. This includes preparing your dog for a boat holiday, selecting the right equipment, and creating a positive experience for your dog.
Get Your Dog Ready For Boating
Is your dog in great ready to sail? Check that all those vaccinations are up-to-date and do ask for advice on how to deal with motion sickness if your pooch is likely to be affected.
Does your dog need swimming lessons? You might assume that all dogs love water and know how to swim, but this is not the case with all breeds. For example, bulldogs, chihuahuas, and pugs tend not have the same natural affinity to water as labradors, spaniels, golden retrievers, or standard poodles, which will gleefully jump into water anytime. Just like with humans, dog swimming training should start in shallow water. Then move to deeper parts to build the dog's confidence in the water. Once dogs have improved their swimming abilities, the next step is to get them on a boat when it's docked or on a trailer. Let your furry friend sniff around the boat, run in and outside, and listen to sounds. Doing this will make them less anxious and more relaxed on the open water.
Pick A Boating Location
Where do you want to go for your boat trip and why? Research places that match your interests, which could be fishing, swimming, camping, and viewing gorgeous scenery. Examples of popular boating destinations across the UK include the Lake District, Loch Lomond in Scotland, Northumberland, and Falmouth, Cornwall. When you know your destination for boating you can track local weather patterns. Then determine what times are ideal for sailing and avoid getting caught up in bad weather. You can also plan for breaks on land when your four-legged companion needs a comfort break or a moment to stretch.
Create Positive Onboard Experiences
A positive boating experience for your four-legged crew member revolves around safety. So, ensure your pooch has a well-fitting life jacket on even if he or she is a good swimmer. Start out with a relatively short boat trip of perhaps an hour. That way, your dog will have a chance to get used to the waves, the sound of the boat engine, and the water. Then you can plan for longer trips next time. Design a dog-friendly space on the boat. What should be featured in this area? Shade, a non-slip mat, collapsible bowls for water, snacks, and treats. And don't forget to keep a close eye on your dog at all times, as curiosity could lead to dangerous areas.
