8 Top Tips for Sailing with your Dog

There’s no reason why your dog can’t be an important part of your crew – follow our top tips for smooth sailing with furry friends…

1. Tag & Chip

Make sure your dog is wearing an ID tag that not only contains your phone number, but a secondary number that can be used to contact a trusted person when you’re sailing. It’s a good idea to have your dog microchipped too, so if they get lost (and their tag does too) they simply need to be scanned and your contact details will come up.

2. Doggy Lifejacket

Just as lifejackets are essential for us, they’re essential for our pets too. All dogs on board should wear a well-fitted doggy lifejacket, regardless of how good a swimmer they are. Choose one with a handle, if they do go overboard this makes it much easier to retrieve them. It’s a good idea to get them used to wearing it at home before you set sail too.

3. Essential Introduction

Get your dog used to being onboard. Start off by having them on your boat when it’s in the dock; build up to starting the engine while you’re stationary, then short sails before long ones. This is kind on your dog and means they won’t feel stressed when you take them away with you.

4. Keep Seasickness at Bay

Make an appointment with your vet to get your dog some seasickness tablets before you set sail – your trip will be miserable for your pet if they are unwell and you have nothing to give them.

5. Secure & Safe

It goes without saying that you should ensure there is nothing dangerous within your dogs reach when on board your boat. If there are some areas of the deck that you see your dog slipping and sliding on, address the traction issue – even non-slip outdoor mats can make a big difference. Always ensure your dog has a cool, shady place to sit and that they always have fresh water in their dish, which should be secured so it doesn’t spill as you sail.

6. Exercise Every Day

When you’re sailing your dog will miss out on their regular walkies and obviously there’s nothing you can do about this. You do however still need to ensure you exercise your dog – both physically and mentally. Make time for play every day – tug of war can burn lots of excess energy and you don’t need masses of space. Interactive games and feeders are great for keeping your dogs mind alert and to keep boredom at bay.

7. Toilet Time

Of course your dog will need to use the toilet while onboard. Most problematic with this is usually getting your dog to understand that it’s okay and allowed. The most hygienic idea is to supply AstroTurf or a large litter box for your dog to use. Remember to praise them when they get it right. This can be confusing for dogs, so be patient and kind.

8. Get Organised

Taking your dog to foreign shores with you can be a wonderful experience, but only if you’re organised. Research your destination(s) well in advance and check their regulations in relation to foreign animals – many have health and quarantine laws that must be adhered too. When on land make sure you always have your dog’s medical documentation with you, in case you’re asked to produce it.

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Do you take your dog sailing with you? Perhaps you have some tips or stories you’d like to share – we’d love to hear from you.