How to Keep A Dog Cool On A Boat

Everyone, including your four-legged friend, enjoys a trip on the boat. Regardless of the type of dog you own, it is possible for them to overheat while on a boat. It is your duty as a boat owner to monitor your pet’s behavior and ensure that they are kept cool and comfortable at all times.

So, to make sure your dog has a pleasant time while boating, below are suggestions on how to keep a dog cool on a boat.

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1. Provide him with plenty of clean water.

Ensuring your dog has access to clean water is critical when boating with them. Dogs, unlike humans, are unable to inform you that they are thirsty and in need of a drink. Before your dog shows any signs of being thirsty, prepare a bowl for him.

Unless you’re certain that the water available in the vicinity is safe for your dog to drink, it’s a good idea to keep a water bowl on board at all times. Steel bowls filled with cold water can remain cool for a long time, and you can also add a few ice cubes to keep the water temperature down.

If you have some dog treats or his favorite chew toys with you, you can put them in a Ziploc bag and store them in your cooler. These can also assist in refreshing your pooch and lowering the temperature, all while providing a treat.

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2. Keep Him Out of the Sun.

As a preventative measure, make sure your dog has access to lots of shade. If you don’t have a T-top or Bimini on your boat, you can use an umbrella, sheet, or towel to provide some shade.

Sitting in the shade rather than in direct sunlight can lower your dog’s temperature by several degrees. The best option would be a fabric-covered elevated shelter to keep your pup off the boat’s floor, which can get quite heated in some environments.

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3. Swim Together in the Sea.

Swimming is an excellent kind of exercise for dogs, and it helps them cool off on a hot day. Most of the time, it’s a safe and enjoyable exercise for your dog – but it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with sea swimming and to know what to do in a crisis.

Bear in mind that not all pups are born swimmers – some can be afraid of the waves! Never push your dog into the water; let them decide for themselves whether or not they want to go for a swim. However, it’s would be more prudent to invest in a life vest for your dog to keep him safe.

If your dog is excited to go swimming but has never done so before, it will need to learn to swim before diving into the ocean. The sea isn’t the best place for dogs to take their first swim because of the strong waves and currents. They should learn to swim in calm, shallow water.

Even if your dog is an excellent swimmer, the sea is still unpredictable. Even calm-looking water can be dangerous due to powerful currents, undertows, and rip currents. However, this does not rule out the idea of swimming with your dog; it’s just a precaution to keep your dog safe when they swim.

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4. Apply Pet Cream Sun Protector.

You know that applying sunscreen is the greatest (and safest) way to spend a day in the sun. While you’re at it, don’t forget about your dog! Is it possible to apply sunscreen to a dog? According to new research, people and animals can benefit from sunscreen. The sun’s damaging rays can also injure dogs’ skin; therefore, they need sunscreen just like humans do.

Dogs’ furry coats provide some weather protection, but this fur can’t block out the rays completely. Some dogs can get sunburned in as little as half an hour of direct sunlight. The belly, ears, nose, and other exposed or shaved body areas are particularly vulnerable to sunburn.

Some breeds are more prone to sunburn and other sorts of sun damage. Breeds with more exposed skin require additional care, such as white-coated pups with pink skin. However, avoid using human sunscreen on dogs.

Human sunscreens have Zinc oxide in their composition, which is poisonous to dogs. Instead, consider getting pet-friendly sunscreen for your pup. Unfortunately, not all pet-friendly sunscreens are made equal; to keep your dog safe, you must exercise extreme caution with component selection.

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5. Invest in a cooling vest.

Dogs can cool down by wearing a cooling vest, which you can immerse in water to lower their temperature. Furthermore, these vests are also engineered to deflect heat rather than absorb it, so you don’t have to worry about your dog overheating while wearing one.

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6. Protect Your Dogs Paws.

It’s possible to expose your dog’s paws to the harsh sun while lounging on a boat or taking a stroll along the lakefront. If your dog’s paws have been burned, he may hobble or fail to move at all if he cannot help it.

Luckily, protecting your beloved pet from scorched paws is a straightforward process. Applying and rubbing in a balm made specifically for this purpose can help keep your dog’s paws safe from burns. A balm, rather than boots, is maybe the most sensible solution since boots also get hot after some time.

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7. Invest in a Cooling Mat.

Consider investing in a cooling gel mat if you’re concerned about your dog’s comfort in the heat. It is possible to make these mats a few degrees colder than the surrounding environment so that your dog doesn’t have to sleep on the scorching boat floor.

Keeping one in his portable kennel is also a wise choice since it helps keep the kennel cool and more pleasant than any other location on the boat.

There are various dog cooling mats in the market, but one that doesn’t require ice or water should be the most practical to have on hand at all times. An electrically operated cooling mat may offer more significant cooling power if your boat has a power supply.

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8. Cool him using a water spray.

Another way to cool down your dog when he becomes overheated is to spray him with cold water. It’s easy to use, affordable, and effective. Spray a fine mist whenever necessary with one of those inexpensive plant water sprayers.

Most dogs will perceive this as a game, with their attention constantly focused on catching the spray. Because it’s fun, why not delegate this particular responsibility to your children?

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Final Word

Boating is a wonderful way to spend time with the entire family, including your dog. If you’re going on a boat trip with your pet, you’ll want to do everything you can to keep your dog cool when boating. When it comes to maintaining a healthy body temperature, dogs aren’t like people.

As a result, you must make sure he has all he needs to feel safe and secure. The next time you decide to take your pet out on the water, keep these suggestions in mind to keep him cool. Taking these basic steps will ensure that he has as much enjoyment in the sea as you do. Remember to pack your camera and have a good time while you’re at it!

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