From the Critical Vet Care Team
With temperatures well over the average and topping out in upper 70’s and low 80’s, some of you are probably still out on the water. Here are some tips to stay safe with your pup onboard.
Dogs DO NOT naturally know how to swim. Most dogs are excellent swimmers, but there are a few breeds, which have the body structure and/or weight distribution making it difficult to swim. Bulldogs, Boxers, and Greyhounds, for example, have a body weight density and coat that challenge their ability to swim.
Before taking your pet aboard, teach him/her to swim and make sure he/she is comfortable in the water. Even if your pup is a swimming champion, make sure he/she is wearing a life jacket at all times while on a boat. Swimming in a pool or even a lake is not comparable to swimming in deep and unpredictable sea or ocean waters with strong currents and high waves. Taking necessary precautions will make your trip a pleasant and safe experience for you and your pet. Below is the complete guide on pet safety while on a boat:
Pet proofing
Check the boat for possible hazards before bringing your pet aboard. Ensure all hatches are closed and that there are no loose hooks, knives or fishing line lying around. Store the fish bait and anything your pet can chew. Provide a ramp for your pet to get on and off the boat.
Getting comfortable
Familiarize your pet with the environment before the trip. Allow your pet to get used to the sights, sounds, smells, and movement of the boat. Sit on the boat with your pet while still pared at the dock before turning on the engine. Start with short trips; gradually build up to a longer cruise. 
Items to bring onboard
Shade Source
Water and Food (treats)
Muzzle
Life Jacket
Pet-safe Sunscreen
First Aid Kit
Sanitary Bags
Leash & Collar
Flashing Light for Collar
Artificial Tears (Saline Solution)
Seasickness
If your pet gets car sick, they are likely to become seasick as well. The off-label use of Dramamine is often used to prevent seasickness.
Dramamine dose for dogs: 4mg/lb given 30 to 60 min prior to departure and every 8 hours during the trip if needed.
Be sure your pet stays well hydrated if vomiting occurs.
Dehydration
Normal water intake is approximately 1 oz per pound of body weight – it is increased in hot weather. Make sure your pet has access to plenty of fresh drinking water at all times (some dogs love ice chips). Dogs regulate their body temperature through water evaporation while panting and also through pads of their feet. Dehydration in prolonged sun exposure can lead to increased body temperature and heat stroke.
Signs of Heatstroke: collapse, increased body temperature, depression, tacky gums, stupor, seizures, coma, excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, gums redder than normal and excessive salivation.
Reduce your pet’s body temperature gradually by wetting him/her down with tepid (not cold) water (do not use ice as rapid cooling can be dangerous.) Wet the ears and footpads. Provide a fan if available. Bring your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Potty Breaks
A big challenge of boating with your pet is making provisions so that they can relieve themselves. Bringing along your cat’s litter box and securing it inside the cabin is good solution for your feline friend. Dogs present a bigger issue. If you don’t plan on regular land stops for your dog to do its’ business, provisions must be made to allow it to relieve itself on the boat. Pee pads or a portable dog potty yard (synthetic grass) are excellent solutions.
Always keep a copy of your pet’s vaccination and health records on hand. If you decide to park your boat at a marina and would like to go ashore, bring your pet’s medical portfolio with you. Some places may require proof of vaccination before letting your pet explore the land.
For more questions, please call CriticalVetCare at 941-929-1818.