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How to Introduce Your Pet to Boating

Dec. 1 2022 Ownership Tips By Nisswa Marine

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Introducing a pet to water, much less a boat, can be a stressful experience for both you and your pet. To help make the process a little easier, we’ve written up some helpful tips and tricks below. If you’re in need of any extra accessories or gear for your next boat ride, feel free to grab it at our location in Nisswa, Minnesota!

Gear

Before you make plans to take your pet on your next boating trip, be sure to grab all the necessary gear to keep them comfortable. To start, it’s extremely important that you buy some sort of safety device for your pet in case they fall overboard. Typically, a life jacket is the best option. These handy flotation devices come in a number of different sizes and buoyancy levels and should fit your pet snugly when in use.

A life jacket isn’t the only accessory your pet will need while on your boat. Before you take off, be sure to bring along bowls and fresh water for your pet. If you plan to be gone for quite a while, you may also want to bring some food along. Your pet will also need to go to the bathroom while out on the water, and we advise bringing along baggies and some cleaning supplies to take care of any accidents.

Introduction

Some pets react well to boats while others never seem to adjust. To achieve the best possible outcome, we advise taking introductions slowly. If your boat is currently out of the water, take your pet abroad and allow them to explore while offering plenty of treats and encouragement. If your boat is currently docked, you can still introduce your pet to your boat, just allow them some time to adjust to the sights and sounds of the dock. Continue to bring your pet aboard your boat often and, once they seem completely comfortable, you can take them on a trip on the water. Try to keep this trip short (preferably under an hour) and remember to offer treats and encouragement to keep your pet calm and happy.

If you follow the advice above, we’re sure you’ll be sailing with your pet in no time! If you’re being proactive and haven’t yet purchased your boat, we encourage you to visit us here at Nisswa Marine. We proudly serve the nearby cities of Minneapolis and St. Cloud, Minnesota, and have an amazing inventory of boats for you to choose from.