Our pets are our best friends, and we want to take them everywhere. However, your pet might not understand being out on the water, so you have to take certain precautions to ensure not only your pet’s safety, but also your own when out on a boat. Here are a few animal safety tips to help protect both of you.

Have a plan in place for if the animal jumps overboard.

No matter how much training your pet has, they are still animals, and they’re still unpredictable. Before you board the vessel, you need to have an action plan in place just in case your pet jumps overboard. Each member of the crew should be aware of this and know the role they have to play during that time.

Invest in a pet life jacket

Many companies have produced life jackets that help keep your animal afloat, and more importantly, visible. If the animal happens to go overboard during rough or stormy conditions, this will make it much easier to see where they are, and is particularly useful for pets that can’t swim.

Take your pet to the boat before you embark

Let our pet get accustomed to the boat and the different parts of it before you set sail. This will give them a chance to investigate and sniff everything on calm waters, rather than when you’re moving. Make sure to start the engine with your pet around so he or she can get used to the noise; this prevents them from panicking when you start the engine on the water.

Pack a first aid kit

You’ll likely be bringing a first aid kit along for yourself, so make sure to pack some supplies for your pet, too. This can be anything from ointments for minor scrapes and bruises to bandages. Make sure to include any medicines your pet might be on, just in case you need to provide him with them.

Check local legislation

Certain areas may have laws against taking animals out on the water, so make sure to check with the local police department or courthouse before getting on the water. This way, you can make sure you aren’t violating any local laws on your boating trip. They may also have suggestions for what you can do to protect your pet while out on the water.

Pets can enjoy boating just as much as people do, but you have to take precautions to ensure their pet safety on the water. Remember, you are responsible for your pet – he or she isn’t going to know to stay away from the engine or to hunker down when a large wave is coming. Make sure to keep an eye on your pet and take a few precautions; this way, both of you can have fun without any worries.