Dog Paddling Through Summer When August rolls around and the heat is fit for neither man nor beast, the best trails for your dog may be out in the water. Eren Howell, owner of Dog Paddling Adventures in Ontario, Canada, has these suggestions for introducing your dog to the canoe: 1. Just as it is for you, a lifejacket is mandatory. It not only provides a huge margin of safety in the event of a tip but the handle on its back helps control the dog in the canoe. 2. You will be doing the work in the canoe while your dog will be expected to sit still for extended periods of time. That is alot to ask of an active dog so before pushing off from shore give your dog a good walk or long swim or spirited game of fetch. 3. Most dogs will trust you and jump into the canoe but don't shove off as soon as you get the dog in the canoe. A few practice ins and outs will help familiarize your dog with what will be expected of him during your canoe trip. Also let your dog explore all the corners of the canoe to satisfy her curiousity before starting out. 4. Once on the water try to increase the stability of your boat by practicing paddling with your knees on the ground while seated. The longer you can paddle in this position before it becomes uncomfortable the better you will be able to withstand any sudden jumps your dog may take. 5. The best place for big dogs is on the floor so try to make this an attractive location for sitting. 6. Don't overdo your dog's first trip. And until you are completely comfortable with your dog's performance in the canoe, try to stay reasonably close to shore. 7. Don't ruin a successsful day on the water by letting your guard down at the end of the trip. Nearly all dumps occur within 5 feet of shore when you may lose focus and your dog jumps for shore prematurely. <<Back To August 2007 Newsletter <<Back To Article Index