A man, a woman, and a large dog in a small motorboat moving across water.

[Narrator] If you're taking to the water with your furry friend, here are some tips to ensure you'll both have a safe and fun day.


The man and woman stand on grass and secure canine life vest around the dog.


[Narrator] Not all dogs can swim,but even if your dog can, he should have on a life vest in case he falls overboard. The life vest will help him avoid drowning and hypothermia until he can be retrieved.


The man walks the dog in a life vest.

[Narrator] Give your dog a chance to walk around with the vest, and also an opportunity to practice swimming with it.


The dog paddling in water, wearing a life vest, carrying a dog toy.

The man and dog standing on a dock next to a small boat.  The dog enters the boat and walks around.

[Narrator] Now some dogs won't enjoy boating right away.

[Narrator] You should let your dog acclimate to his surroundings while you're still tied to the dock, before you venture out.


The woman and man in the small boat with the dog.  The woman takes hold of the dog's leash and sits down.

[Narrator] On the other hand, if your dog is really excited about being on the boat, it's a good idea to keep him on leash so he doesn't jump overboard.


The man turning the ignition key of the boat.

[Narrator] Turn on the engine or slowly set the sails to get your dog familiar with the sights and sounds of boating.


The man, woman, and dog in the small motorboat cruising along the water.

[Narrator] Just like people, dogs can get motion sickness, so you may want to keep your first trip short and close to the shore, just in case.


The dog jumping in shallow water, wearing a life vest, carrying a dog toy.

[Narrator] If you're going to let your dog swim, you should attach a special ramp to your boat like doggydocks, so he can get on and off of your boat with ease.


The man standing on a dock placing a small "DoggyDock" in the water.  Dog walks up the "DoggyDock".

[Narrator] This ramp is designed to simulate a shoreline, so your dog can climb out of the water easily.


The woman in the boat setting up a large umbrella. The woman then pours water into a large water dish.

[Narrator] Onboard, you should provide your dog with a shady place to get away from the hot sun and be sure to give him lots of fresh water to drink.


The woman placing a patch of synthetic grass on the bow of the boat.  The dog walks up and sniffs the grass.

[Narrator] Now if you're far out to sea or if you just can't go ashore to walk your dog, you'll need to set up a potty area. The Pup Head is a portable dog potty with a synthetic grass that's designed specifically for dogs. The antimicrobial nature of the product fights odor and provides a safe, clean area for your dog to relieve himself. It's perfect for deep sea trips or for times when you can't row ashore.


The man sitting and playfully petting dog in boat.

[Narrator] Finally, while you're out on the water, periodically check your dog to be sure he's acting normal. If he seems disoriented, is salivating a lot, or seems lethargic, he may be seasick. Some veterinarians will recommend a mild medication to curb seasickness. So check with them if your dog shows any signs. If you follow these simple tips, bringing your dog boating with you can be a fun, new experience for the both of you.


Images of "Pup Gear" products: DoggieDock and Pup-Head.

[Narrator] If you'd like to learn more about DoggyDocks or Pup Head, press the menu button on your DVD remote control now.