If you go on vacation, the biggest challenge you will face is finding someone willing to feed and care for your pet while you are away. Therefore, it might be a good idea to tag your pet along on your next trip. There are a number of pet charter cruising companies that allow you to take your pets.
But if you decide to take your dog on a pet-friendly cruising adventure, here are some tips you can use:
1. Make sure your dog is properly hydrated. Bring plenty of water and let the dog drink every thirty minutes.
2. Give your dog a life jacket. Before boating, it is important to ask your boat rental company if they have a life jacket for dogs. If not, you may have to buy one. Make sure you choose a jacket that fits your dog well.
3. Try to check out the boat with your pet before the boat trip. Dogs usually get scared when you put them in a new environment.
4. It is important to check local laws about boats and dogs before going on your boating excursion. While states, in general, do not prohibit dog travel or cruising, some cities and states do. Therefore, it is important to double check the local pet travel laws for your cruising destination before taking your dog with you.
5. Bring a pet first aid kit with you. The first aid kit should include:
• tweezers
• Pet carrier
Ice box
• Non-rubber gloves
Gauze rolls
Hydrogen peroxide
• Adhesive tape
Cotton balls
• Disinfectant spray
• Rectal thermometer
• scissors
Petroleum jelly
• Penlight
• Nail clippers
• Towels
• Tongue guard
• Wipe with alcohol
Also, be sure to bring a pet first aid book, your vet’s phone number, and your pet’s paperwork.
6. Apply a pet-friendly sunscreen to your dog. Some dogs need protection from the sun’s harmful rays. So, if your dog is sensitive to the heat of the sun, you should definitely rub him with some sunscreen before going on the boating trip.
7. Put an identification collar on the dog’s neck. Don’t forget to put your contact information on the tag.
8. Create a place where the dog can urinate or defecate such as puppy pads or a small litter box.
9. If you are traveling out of the country, it is best to secure a pet passport first before going on your trip.
10. Make sure your dog does not disturb wildlife.
11. Do not allow your dog to drink from the sea or canal water. Ensure that your dog drinks clean, sterilized water throughout the flight.
12. Make sure your vet performs a routine check-up of your pet before you leave on your trip. You have to make sure that your pet’s vaccination is up to date.
This pet-friendly adventure sailing rental is fun and allows you to strengthen your bond with your pet. But, you should take precautions first before you take your pet on your next boating trip.