Boating with Pets on Lakes, the Hudson or the Sound

This funny item from the Boat Owners Association of the United States does contain useful information about boating with pets.

Whether you're sailing on Long Island Sound or water-skiing on Copake Lake, if you're taking along the family pet you might want to consider the following: pet life jackets, snap-out washable carpets, CO alarms in the cabin, chamois cloths for drying fur, a boathook — and a good boat insurance policy.

Read on to find out why:

The dog days of summer are here, and recreational boaters are having a great time with their pets on the water. However, not all outings have gone as planned, and the staff at Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) has some stories to share about their experiences this summer that can help all animal owners:
“As someone who has had to haul a Golden Retriever onto the swim step of a large motorboat, I’d suggest making sure the dog can swim before coming aboard the boat.”
–Kerry in BoatUS Marine Insurance
Tip: BoatUS also suggests learning about life jackets for dogs here.
“Engine fumes and seasickness can affect pets, too. Thank goodness for snap-out washable boat carpets! I try to ensure the dog is not in an enclosed space, and can see the horizon and I avoid having him sit aft where engine fumes can backdraft onto the cockpit floor. Boaters should also have a CO alarm in the cabin regardless.”
–Jerry in BoatUS Towing Services
Tip: For more on carbon monoxide poisoning, go here.
“Cat lovers suggest hanging indoor/outdoor carpet or rope over the transom so cats can climb back aboard if they fall overboard. I once tried to dry out a wet cat with a hair dryer and it didn’t go so well. While a few cats don’t mind loud noises and may even let you vacuum them, a soft towel or chamois is better for drying off your little Lion King.”
–Ted in BoatUS Foundation
Tip: To find out how to canoe or cruise with cats, see two stories here.
“I always keep a boat hook handy for retrieving just in case. It’s also easier to grab a dog when he’s wearing his life jacket, and you can lift from the handle on his back.”
–Claire in BoatUS Publications
Tip: On docks at home, the club or marina, BoatUS recommends always having a boat hook nearby.
“In the BoatUS Marine Insurance Program’s Claims Department we recently had a claim on an iguana bite that necessitated nose reconstruction. The message? Don’t tick off the iguana.”
–Kerry in BoatUS Marine Insurance
Tip: BoatUS has no recommendations for boating with lizards, tarantulas or orangutans, other than to keep them very happy while aboard. If that fails, it’s important to have a good boat insurance policy as a back-up plan.
For more on boating and pets, go to www.BoatUS.com/pets/articles.asp.

Photo: Pippa’s webbed feet make her a great swimmer and perfect for boating. The Boykin Spaniel belongs to a BoatUS Foundation staff member./BoatUS