Let’s face it: Boats look better when there’s a proud-looking pup balancing on the bow. But before you take your dog – or cat – out on the water, read through these tips to make sure you’re prepared:

• Make sure your pet feels secure – Not all animals take to boating. Before bringing your dog or cat on an outing, bring it on board and turn on the engine. If the sound clearly disturbs your pet, reconsider bringing it along.
• Start small – Pets can get seasick, too, so start with short trips to let your pet get a feel for the pitch and roll of the boat.
• Stow away dangerous objects – Make sure there aren’t any hazardous chemicals or dangerous equipment (e.g., fishing tackle) within your pet’s reach.
• Outfit your pet properly – Buy a pet-sized life jacket for your dog or cat. Consider a visor, cap or sunglasses to protect your pet’s eyes from the sun. Protect the pads of their paws from your boat’s hot fiberglass and vinyl surfaces by purchasing custom pad protectors.
• Be mindful of the weather – Animals, too, can suffer from sunstroke, cramps and heat exhaustion. Take plenty of water for your pet and keep him hydrated. Find or create a shaded section on the boat for him to take shelter. If you see him panting excessively and drooling, he may be overheating.