Category:
Day of Paddle Considerations
As with most things in life, it depends. For the sake of this discussion, we’re going to limit ourselves to typical domesticated mammalian pets (Dogs and Cats). If you are considering including a different kind of pet, let’s discuss the specifics in advance. Make sure to list your pet as a rider in the Paddle Planner and animal breed in the notes portion.
- All pets will need to wear an appropriately fitted pet floatation device (aka pet life jacket, canine floatation device) as appropriate. While most animals can swim to greater or lesser degrees, we may be further away from shore than they can manage, and the pet jackets typically have a handle on the back that helps with getting them in/on the boat and out of the water.
- BEFORE considering bring a pet along for a kayak/SUP ride:
- Make sure your pet is comfortable with being around and/or in the water. Nobody wants to see or endure a pet freakout (especially the owner or the pet). Please do not force a pet into a situation they don’t want to be in. If you are going to enjoy your paddle experience, they need to be calm and willing to sit on or in the boat without any unexpected escape attempts. We have found some pets really enjoy riding in/on a boat and a smaller portion even like being in the water. You know your pet, you make an informed decision.
- Make sure your pet is comfortable with wearing a pet flotation device/jacket BEFORE attempting getting them on or in a kayak, SUP or any other watercraft. Again, this is to avoid unpleasant reactions and you and the gear getting torn up. The best way to acclimate your pet is to have them wear the jacket onshore for a few hours over a few days. Most pet jackets have leash attachments, so walking your pet while they wear the jacket will also help them get comfortable. We’ve found if a pet is used to a harness or other vests the transition is much easier. Don’t rush it or assume all will go well without adequate preparation.
- If you and/or your pet do end up making a wet exit, you may be distracted for a time before you can attend to your non-human companion. The pet life jacket helps them keep their head above water until they can be assisted.
- Long, sharp, or heavy claws/nails can not only cause injury, but can also damage the boats, seats, PFDs, and other equipment. Please consider your pet’s particulars (size, temperament, energy level) as you will be responsible for any damage they cause. Biting, scratching, or ripping a hole in an inflatable SUP or certain kayak gear could prove challenging midway through a paddle and rather expensive.
- If we are in brackish, saltwater, or stagnate water, your pet should not drink it.
- On the trip, you need to remain in control of your pet. Bring a leash for any on-shore time and a perhaps a favorite toy that can’t sink they can enjoy while in/on the boat and in the water (if your pet is into that).
- The SUPs and sit-on-top kayaks have some padding on the top to help with grip, but that may not align with where your pet decides to ride. We have some small (~15”x15”) square cushions that may provide some additional padding for smaller pets if needed.
- We do not recommend having a leash on your pet while they are in or on the watercraft. We don’t want them to get trapped, towed, or entangled.
- Bigger pets typically must be managed more closely as they can cause excitement by just moving around (and possibly throwing you off balance or tipping/flipping your boat). Still, smaller pets, can cause mischief if allowed to get away with too much.
- If your pet proves to be unruly or destructive before or during the paddle the Casual Kayakers Guide may request or direct they remain on or return to shore. This is for pet’s safety and comfort as well as for the pet owner and other paddlers.
