1) Purchase a dog life jacket.
You can find life jackets for dogs at most boating stores and pet shops. We purchased ours for our dogs at PetSmart. When buying a life jacket for your dog make sure it’s a good fit. It is a good idea to take your dog with you to the store to try it on before buying. Although most dogs can swim, large waves or fatigue can cause drowning in even the most avid of swimmers, so don’t risk it, get your dog a life jacket. Even if your dog doesn’t drown if they go overboard for any reason, excessive fatigue can cause numerous problems.
How to choose a life jacket for your furry friend:
- Fit: Make sure the life jacket fits securely. It’s best to check the fit in the store, before you buy.
- Lifting handles: To make retrieving your pet safer and easier.
- Comfort: Check to see where straps and buckles fall to make sure they won’t cause your pet any discomfort.
- Color: Choose a bright color such as yellow or orange to make it easier to spot your dog in the water.