Ahoy mate, it’s been beautiful boating weather, hasn’t it?
Veterinarians from BluePearl Veterinary Partners are asking people to take precautions while boating to ensure the safety of their furry friends this summer.
Pet-related boating injuries and fatalities may not be some of the most tracked statistics of this year, as in 2013 the Coast Guard tallied 4,062 accidents that involved 560 human deaths, 2,620 human injuries and approximately $39 million of property damage as a result of recreational boating accidents.
Federal law requires recreational boaters to have a sound-producing device such as a bell or air horn, flares, fire extinguisher, life jackets for every person on-board and a throwable flotation device. The Coast Guard also recommends for people to have a VHF-FM marine radio, an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon, a dewatering device and a first aid kit.
BluePearl recommend these precautions when boating with your furry family members:
–Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are life-threatening to both people and pets. Make sure everyone, including pets, has access to a shaded area on the vessel to get out of the sun to avoid overheating.
–Pets need access to drinking water when on a boat to keep their body temperature in the normal range.
–Give your pets a break by giving them a spot to lie down, such as a spot on your lap. Boat movements can cause fatigue, especially for older pets, and can cause them to be more susceptible to injury due to the constant movement and balancing they have to do.
–If your pet has trouble swimming, consider purchasing a life jacket or other pet-safe floatation device.
–If your pet is going to go swimming, make sure you always stay close to them. To prevent further fatigue and possible injury ensure that there is an easy access point for him or her to get on and off the boat.
–Make sure engines are not engaged while people or pets are in the water.
— Taylor Feuss
