Top tips for taking your dog out paddleboarding
1 . Make sure you are well trained , experienced and in complete control of your board .
2 . Ensure your dog is well trained , has good recall etc .
3 . Let the dog get used to the board on land .
4 . Check weather conditions : check the wind and swell , I don ’ t like to take Percy out in the wind stronger than 10mph , and I look for flat water . If it is raining , I might leave him at home , and I plan to try a dog raincoat for him .
6 . Paddle in a location you know well , perhaps a river , lake , or canal rather than the sea . 7 . Plan a small paddle first . 8 . Go with another well trained , experienced paddler . 9 . Stock up on dog treats 10 . Never attach your dog to you or the board because of the risk of entanglement .
11 . Wear appropriate clothing and equipment – be prepared to fall in .
12 . If your dog doesn ’ t settle , abort , try another day .
OK , so what could go wrong !
Drowning …
Drowning can come in several guises ; even the strongest swimmer can run into difficulty . A dog can become entangled in foliage or discarded items on a riverbed ; snort in water whilst swimming , which may present issues immediately or later . This is known as secondary drowning , where the lungs are irritated , and the body tries to compensate by producing fluid ( this fluid causes secondary drowning ).
What to do …
Small dogs can be picked up above the ankles and swung between the legs , or you could use the ‘ coupage ’ technique taught on courses to try and expel the water . If the dog has become unresponsive , then be prepared to give CPR . Keep the dog warm and call the vet to let them know you ’ re on the way . Even if your dog appears to make a full recovery , you should still have him checked by a vet .
What to look out for …
Obviously , suppose your dog is struggling in the water . In that case , early signs of an issue your dog is suffering could also be that their breathing is laboured or irregular , coughing , or adopting an odd posture ( a sign of discomfort ). If you see any of these signs , check for the pulse and colour of the gums . A weak pulse and pale gums are indications your dog is in trouble . If not dealt with , difficulty breathing could lead to collapse and loss of consciousness .
Water intoxication …
Drinking too much water – could be unintentionally drinking or swallowing whilst swimming . Symptoms include lack of coordination , lethargy , nausea , bloating , vomiting , dilated pupils , glazed eyes , pale gums , and excessive salivation . Advanced symptoms include difficulty breathing , collapsing , loss of consciousness , and even seizures . So be prepared to give CPR ; call the vet to let them know you ’ re on the way .
63 s t a n d u p p a d d l e m a g u k