Posted on 12/04/2024

Travelling by boat with pets: Tips for a safe adventure

Embarking on a boat trip with your pet can be an exciting and enriching experience. To ensure that both you and your furry companion enjoy this adventure safely and comfortably, careful preparation is essential. This guide is designed to help you plan and execute a smooth sailing trip, covering everything from advance preparations to onboard best practices. Preparing properly will ensure that your pet stays happy and safe throughout the trip, allowing you to enjoy your time together without worry.

Before setting sail: Essential preparations

Good preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip for you and your pet. Before heading out on the water, there are several steps you should take to make sure everything is ready. The first step is to make sure your pet feels comfortable and safe in a moving environment. You can start by getting them accustomed to the boat while it is still moored, allowing them to explore and adapt to their surroundings. Also, check and update any identification your pet carries, including tags and microchips, just in case it gets lost.

Veterinary consultation and health check

Before planning any boat trip, a visit to the vet is essential. Take this opportunity to confirm that your pet is in good health and fit to travel. The vet can offer specific advice on how to care for your pet in a marine environment and check that all vaccinations are up to date. In addition, discuss options for preventing seasickness if you think your pet may be at risk. This is also a good opportunity to check and refill any medications your pet may need during the trip.

Preparation of pet safety equipment

Safety is paramount when travelling with pets. Be sure to equip your pet with a lifejacket that is the right size for them. A good lifejacket should be comfortable for your pet to wear throughout the trip, as well as provide sufficient buoyancy. Test it at home to make sure it fits properly and that your pet can move freely. Also, consider installing a safety net around the perimeter of the boat to prevent your pet from accidentally falling into the water.

On board: Tips for a safe and comfortable journey

Once everything is ready and you are on board, it is important to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the journey. Make sure they have access to shade and fresh water at all times, especially if the weather is warm. In addition, it is crucial to limit his movement in areas of the ship where he may be at risk of falling or injury. If the trip is uneventful, allowing him to explore under supervision can make the experience more enjoyable for both of you.

Maintain a family routine

Maintaining a routine can help minimise your pet’s stress. Try to follow his regular feeding and walking schedule as closely as possible. Bring his usual food and fresh water to keep him hydrated, especially if it’s hot. It’s also a good idea to bring his favourite toys or blankets to make him feel more at home. If your pet has a special diet or requires medication, be sure to bring everything you need to keep their care routine unchanged.

Constant monitoring

Never leave your pet unattended on the boat. Make sure someone can always see it, especially if it is restless or nervous. Being attentive will help you react quickly if your pet seems uncomfortable or in danger. Also, provide plenty of opportunities for your pet to pause and relieve itself, which may require some planning if space is limited.

Arrival and disembarkation: Ending the journey in safety

When your boating adventure comes to an end, it is important to ensure that you and your pet disembark safely. Be especially careful when disembarking, as docks can be slippery or unstable. Make sure your pet is safe and under control before allowing it to leave the boat, and do a final check to make sure nothing important is left on board.

Post-trip review

Once on land, give your pet a chance to stretch and acclimatise back to the stable environment. Check for signs of stress or discomfort and provide plenty of water to rehydrate after the trip. If you notice anything worrying, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. This is also a good time to reward your pet for good behaviour with a treat or favourite activity, reinforcing a positive experience.