Before going boating with the family dog, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with some safety tips to insure that your pet will enjoy the experience

Thank goodness! The warmer weather has finally arrived and people and dogs alike can now comfortably venture out from their Winter cocoons.

Soon, family life will be busy with Summer plans, which for many, include cottages, boats and plenty of time relaxing on the water.

Everyone knows the importance of safety on the water and parents will take every precaution to ensure their children are safe while in a boat. For families with dogs, who also enjoy boat rides with the family, a little thought and common sense will go a long way to ensuring your beloved family pet stays safe in the boat with the rest of the family.

While on the boat, please make sure your dog is under constant supervision, especially while the boat is in motion. If your puppy or dog is a newcomer to the joys of boating, take things slowly at first to allow your pet time to adjust to the movement of the boat and the noise of the engine. The goal is for your dog to thoroughly enjoy the boating experience. If he or she is too nervous or afraid while on board, you may want to consider leaving the dog behind next time. Unfortunately, as is the same with people, not every dog will enjoy being on a boat.

No matter what size your dog is, and how good a swimmer they are, consider using a Personal (Pet) Flotation Device. There are quite a few companies that make them and they come in many sizes. It is important to properly size your dog when buying a pet floatation device, so bring your dog along when you make the purchase. If you know your dog is a great swimmer and don't think a PFD is necessary, remember that accidents can happen very fast and boats can travel at high speeds. If your dog is injured and cannot swim, the PFD may be the difference between life and death.

Keep in mind that most, if not all PFDs for pets are designed with a convenient handle on top that aids in lifting your dog out of the water. This can come in handy, especially with smaller dogs.

Something else to consider when you dog's on-board the boat is the footing. Dogs obviously don't wear and so slick fibre-glass decks can be a real challenge, especially if it is wet. Also, remember that the deck of the boat can also become very hot in the sun and a dog's sensitive footpads can be burned badly. Therefore, it is important to check the deck's temperature often.

Always provide a shaded area for your dog to retreat to when necessary. This is especially essential for those day-trips when the sun and hot temperatures can be overwhelming for any dog, or human. Remember to bring plenty of fresh water and a bowl for doggy drinks. There is nothing good about your dog drinking too much salty water while playing in the surf.

For those who venture out to the islands, and spend time frolicking in the shallows, be conscious of your dog's health out there as well. Again, a dog's footpads are always exposed, and the beaches and shallow waters can contain sharp objects, from normal marine debris to the man-made variety, especially since Hurricane Katrina. Monitor your pet at all times on and around the beaches. Otherwise, your dog may bring you back an unhappy hermit crab, or worse.

Of course, like always, be the responsible and courteous dog owner and always pick up your dog's feces.

While enjoying the water and the waves with your dog, be careful your pet doesn't become over-exhausted with swimming and chasing waves. Remember, dogs truly do not realize their limitations and any dog can stay too long in the water, so setting a time limit is a good idea. Also, try to avoid letting your dog in the water when the jellyfish are in large numbers. They are apt to sting your dog.

One other obvious danger of being on a boat with your dog, no matter where, is the hazard of fishing gear. Be sure to keep all hooks and bait far out of reach of your curious dog. Otherwise, you'll have one terrible trip home in store as the treble hook sways from your dog's lower lip. Unfortunately, this is seen far too often by veterinarians.

In the event that your dog does get hooked, you can try to cut the hook out or at least lighten the weight. Just remember the barb on the hook usually doesn't come out but in one direction.

You may want to get some additional information on all forms of boating with your dog. Go to BoatUS.com/pets for more tips and suggestions.