Dogs on board: it can be done! Here’s how to plan your cruise with your four-legged friends

Have you recently got a small dog and are thinking about how to cope with the summer boating vacation with him? Don’t worry, life on board with a four-legged friend is something totally doable, as long as you change some of your habits and pay attention to your friend’s needs. Let’s then look at some tricks to face this summer’s vacation with peace of mind.

THE MALDIMARE

Like us humans, dogs also suffer from the sea. However, the dog’s symptoms are clear: gradual increase in salivation and wheezing will be the alarm bells. The dog may not even go so far as to vomit, but you will notice him drooling and it will be a clear sign that your friend is suffering from the sea. Therefore, it is important to do some short test navigations to see what level of tolerance you have and possibly plan your itinerary accordingly. If necessary, mild sedatives or anti-vomiting medications can be administered on the advice of the veterinarian to deal with navigation.

GO ASHORE

The dog needs to go ashore, to do his business as best he can (he also does it in the boat but is less comfortable) and for the walks our four-legged friends need. Therefore, we avoid spending too much time in roadstead and also plan some stops in the harbor. Some typically summer locations, such as the islands for example, of the rest are also very nice to visit on land.

SHADOW ON BOARD

It will be essential to have not only water and food on board at all times, but also a shady place for our friend where he can be quiet and rest if he needs it.

SECURITY.

When sailing, we never forget to have him wear one of the life jackets for dogs that are commercially available and tie him up with a long leash to a safety line, so that should we be distracted and he ends up overboard there will not be too much danger for him.

HEALTH

It will be important before departure to take our dog to the veterinarian for a checkup and make sure his health condition is suitable for a boat trip. Indeed, elderly dogs may poorly cope with the stress of navigation. In fact, remember that although the dog is able to adapt quietly to life on a boat, it is still not in its usual environment, and older specimens may suffer for a long list of reasons. Always consult with your trusted veterinarian, carry any medications that may be helpful to your friend. Speaking of health, don’t forget to wash your furry one with fresh water after a swim in the sea. Finally, never leave the water bowl empty, with the heat and salt our friend will need fresh water more frequently.