The first time I took my rescue dog, Baxter, kayaking, I thought it would be a serene bonding experience. Little did I know, Baxter had other plans.
We started the day with a hearty breakfast. Baxter, a shaggy mutt with a heart of gold and a stomach that could rival a small bear’s, inhaled his kibble like it was his last meal on Earth. I packed some snacks, water, and a tiny life vest for Baxter. He eyed the vest suspiciously, but I reassured him it was the latest in canine fashion. He seemed to buy it.
Arriving at the lake, the calm water mirrored the clear sky. Baxter trotted to the edge and dipped a cautious paw in the water. His nose twitched with curiosity. I set up the kayak, a bright yellow one I named “The Banana Boat.” I figured a happy color would set a happy tone. Spoiler alert: I was wrong.
Getting Baxter into the kayak was akin to convincing a cat to take a bath. He was not having it. With treats in hand and my best doggy-voice persuasion, I finally managed to coax him in. He looked at me with those big brown eyes as if to say, “This better be worth it, human.”
We pushed off from the shore, and for a moment, everything was perfect. Baxter sat at the front, his ears perked up, and his nose sniffing the air. I paddled gently, enjoying the peace and the feeling of unity with my furry companion.
Then, we saw it: a duck. Not just any duck, but the duck. To Baxter, it might as well have been the Holy Grail of ducks. He froze, his eyes locked onto the unsuspecting bird, and before I could react, he leaped out of the kayak like a furry torpedo.
Chaos ensued. The kayak wobbled violently, and I flailed my arms in a desperate attempt to regain balance. Baxter was now in the water, dog-paddling furiously after the duck, who, to its credit, seemed unimpressed by the sudden turn of events.
I managed to stabilize the kayak and started paddling after Baxter, calling his name. People on the shore must have thought I was reenacting a scene from a slapstick comedy. Baxter, undeterred, kept paddling, determined to catch his feathery foe.
After what felt like an eternity (but was probably only a few minutes), Baxter finally realized the duck was a lost cause and turned back towards me, panting but looking immensely proud of himself. I helped him back into the kayak, both of us drenched and exhausted.
As we paddled back to shore, Baxter shook off the water, drenching me once more. He settled down in the kayak, giving me a look that said, “See? That was fun!”
We reached the shore, and I pulled the kayak up onto the grass. Baxter jumped out, shook himself off again, and trotted over to a sunny spot to lie down. I joined him, collapsing next to him with a tired laugh.
It wasn’t the peaceful outing I had envisioned, but as I lay there, soaking wet next to my equally soaked but very happy dog, I realized it was one of the best adventures we’d ever had.
Taking Your Dog Kayaking for the First Time: Tips for a Pawsome Adventure
The first time I took my rescue dog, Baxter, kayaking was an unforgettable adventure, full of unexpected twists and turns. Here are some tips based on our experience to help you and your furry friend have a successful and enjoyable outing on the water.
1. Start with Dry Land Training
Before you hit the water, let your dog get familiar with the kayak on dry land. This helps them get used to the kayak’s surface and learn how to balance while it’s stationary.
2. Use a Canine Life Vest
Safety first! Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, a canine life vest is a must. Make sure it fits well and is comfortable. Look for a vest with a handle on the back so you can easily lift your dog in and out of the water if needed.
3. Choose the Right Kayak
A stable, sit-on-top kayak is generally best for paddling with a dog. These kayaks have more space and are less likely to tip over. Consider the size and weight capacity to ensure it accommodates both you and your dog comfortably.
4. Plan a Short, Calm First Trip
For the first outing, pick a calm, quiet body of water and plan a short trip. Avoid busy areas with lots of boats and loud noises, which could be overwhelming for your dog.
5. Bring Essentials
Pack a bag with water, a collapsible bowl, some treats, a leash, and poop bags. Also, bring along a towel to dry off your dog and yourself.
6. Practice Getting In and Out
Teach your dog how to get in and out of the kayak safely. You can practice this at the shore by having your dog step in and out of the kayak with your help. Reward them with treats and praise to create a positive association.
7. Use Commands
Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” are crucial on the water. If your dog knows these commands well, it can prevent them from jumping out after distractions like ducks.
8. Keep Your Cool
Dogs can sense your energy. Stay calm and composed, even if things get a little chaotic. Your dog will take cues from your demeanor, so if you’re relaxed, they’re more likely to be relaxed too.
9. Watch the Weather
Check the weather forecast before you go. Avoid kayaking in extreme heat, strong winds, or stormy conditions. Cooler, calm days are ideal for your dog’s comfort and safety.
10. Enjoy the Moment
Remember, the goal is to have fun and bond with your dog. Things might not go perfectly the first time, and that’s okay. Enjoy the adventure and take lots of pictures to capture the memories!
Taking your dog kayaking can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation. Baxter and I had a wild ride our first time, but every subsequent trip has been better and more enjoyable. Happy paddling!
By Staff Writer
