by Julie Wenger Watson
Oklahoma is home to more than 200 lakes, offering countless opportunities for water recreation. While the state’s weather generally allows for boating year-round, Memorial Day is considered the “unofficial” kickoff of the season, when residents of the Sooner State return to the water in droves, many bringing their pets along with them. Before you cast off with your own four-legged passenger, here are some things to consider.
Don’t rock the boat
Many dogs love the water, but some, particularly those who are skittish or excitable, may not be well suited to the nautical life.
“There are many things that may make dogs nervous including the sounds, the wind while driving, or the water itself,” says Alex Mitchell, co-owner of Tulsa’s Fetch Social Club.
Before making Fido part of your crew, ask yourself a few questions. Does your pet enjoy car rides and the outdoors? Can your pet swim, or does it panic in the water? Is your animal calm around noise, wind and motion?
Start small
Experts advise pet owners to gradually ease their pets into lake life. Because Mitchell and her family love to spend time at Grand Lake every summer, Mitchell began acclimating her Australian Shepherd, Elko, to the lake when she was just 5 months old. Five years later, Elko is a lake veteran, who happily boats, kayaks and paddleboards right alongside her humans.
Before boating with your pet, make sure it’s comfortable around water. For Elko, this meant enrolling in swim lessons at Tulsa’s K9 Manners & More.
“We started with swim lessons and have worked up to dock diving lessons so that she is comfortable in the water,” says Mitchell. “Your dog may not love the water, but if you want to take them on the boat, it’s important to have a swim lesson prior to boating just in case they are forced into the water for whatever reason.”
Once your pet is accustomed to the water, allow your pet to explore the boat while it’s docked before you head out on your first trip. Try a short trip in shallow waters before you undertake a multi-hour adventure.
Safety first
Keeping your pet safe while on the boat and around water should be a priority. Make sure all fishing gear is properly stowed to avoid a run-in with lures, bait and hooks. Safely store any chemicals, like antifreeze and cleaning agents, which could be toxic to animals. Teach and practice basic commands like “sit,” “stay” and “on/off the boat.”
Keep a leash and harness on board for securing your pet as needed and for going ashore for potty breaks. In addition, learn some basic pet first aid and include supplies on board. Some dogs can get sea sick, so consult with your vet if this is a problem for your pet.
Watch out for the Oklahoma heat, and provide shade for your pup. If a deck burns your bare feet, it will also damage paw pads. During the hottest months of the summer, Mitchell and Elko stick to boating in the early morning and evenings. Consider pet-safe sunscreen to protect your animal’s sensitive skin.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Humans aren’t the only passengers who need a PFD. Even strong swimmers can panic and fatigue, and a pet-specific life jacket can literally be a lifesaver. When choosing one, make sure it fits securely and comfortably. A PFD with a lifting handle will make retrieving your pet from the water safer and easier, and a bright color makes your pet more visible.
Have a plan
Even the best-behaved pup can fall overboard. Prepare by having a plan in place and practice getting your pet in and out of the water. A large floating toy or flotation device can give your animal something to hang on to while you retrieve it. When you’re maneuvering the boat to rescue your dog, designate another person to keep eyes on the pup at all times.
Fresh water
Your pet may be surrounded by water, but it still needs plenty of fresh, clean water to drink. One gallon per pet for each boating day is recommended. Don’t forget the bowl! While you’re thinking of it, pack treats and food, too, for your longer journeys.
Potty breaks
Give your pet a chance to relieve itself before boarding, and plan ahead for bathroom breaks, including supplies, if you’re taking a longer trip. Some boaters utilize “pee pads” or artificial turf as a solution while others find places to anchor and go ashore.
Maria Langer, an OUPV captain (licensed to carry up to six passengers for hire), has traveled over 10,000 nautical miles with her rescues, Lily and Rosie (Chihuahua-Yorkshire Terrier mixes). Although she says finding places to anchor or moor in order to go to shore for their exercise and potty breaks can be a challenge, she appreciates the enforced exercise and interaction it gives her, too.
“My dogs are my life companions,” she says. “They remind me that I need to take care of myself so I can take care of them.”
The reward
Although the high seas, or even the Oklahoma waterways, aren’t for every pet, when things go well, it can be a wonderful experience for animal and human, alike. For Mitchell, any hassle is well worth the wonder of seeing Elko in action.
“She absolutely lights up when she gets to experience the boat and the water,” she says. “She loves diving off the dock and spending the afternoons with lake enrichment!”
For Langer, traveling with her pups is just a part of life.
“From day one, I’ve been traveling with my dogs. I got them when I was RVing in Arizona one winter and take them most places I go,” she says. “I’ve never assumed they couldn’t do something with me; I’ve always just taken them along, and they’ve learned how to deal with it.”
Find more on Fetch Social at fetchsocialclub.com. To follow Langer’s travels with Lilly and Rose, visit mygreatloopadventure.com.
