How to carry your pet on the board?

Would you like to take your pet paddle surfing and don't know where to start? In this guide we are going to tell you everything you need to know to enjoy a great day paddle surfing in the company of your pet. Find out what equipment you need to go paddle surfing and how to get your dog used to both the board and the water.

What kind of animals can go paddle surfing?

Not all pets are compatible with the sport of paddle surfing. The animal must be docile, prone to discipline and familiar with aquatic environments. In this case, dogs are the best companions for an outing with your paddle board, although it requires taking into consideration several aspects and getting your pet used to both the board and the water.

But just because it is a dog does not make it any easier to adapt to paddle surfing. To take your pet on the board you must first get him used to it, a process that will require practice, repetition and patience. Keep in mind that not all dogs are born to ride a SUP, but with time and training, anything is possible.

Therefore, if you are thinking of paddle surfing with your pet and you don't know where to start, the best thing to do is to equip yourself properly so that everything is a success. You should also get your dog used to the board and practice many times before going out on the water.

And if you want to learn how to paddle surf or improve your technique, here is a complete guide with everything you need to know to become an expert.

Necessary equipment to carry your pet on the board

Having the necessary equipment to carry your pet on the board is essential if you want to enjoy a pleasant and smooth ride. Among the essentials are the following accessories:

• Life Harness: First and foremost, the dog must be equipped with a life harness. Similar to the life jackets used in paddle surfing, these harnesses are designed to help pets stay afloat in case they fall into the water. It is important that the life jacket fits the size and weight of your pet, and that it offers enough buoyancy to keep the animal at the surface. Keep in mind that the dog may become frightened or feel so excited that it may want to jump off the board. If he falls into the water and does not have a life harness, he could be at risk of drowning. Look for a harness that fits your pet and has a top handle from which you can grab him to help him get back on the board.
• Non-slip pad: although paddle surf boards already have this EVA rubber surface, it is not a bad idea to take precautions to protect the board and help your dog stay on it. Depending on the position you occupy on the SUP, carrying your pet on the board on a non-slip pad may be a good idea, especially if the animal likes to stand up, as this surface will allow it to gain grip on a board that may be wet. In addition, the pad covers the board and protects it from the dog's nails, which could puncture it.
• Waterproof bag: the waterproof bag is a perfect paddle surfing accessory to go out with your dog. In it you can store all those things you need, such as a cell phone, treats for the animal and water to keep it hydrated.
• Rewards: they are the insurance for your dog to obey and be rewarded when he does well. This type of small food is used in dog training as positive reinforcement to stimulate your dog. It is a great idea to take these treats with you when you go out with the board, as they will help calm the dog down and help him respond to your instructions. In addition, you can reward him when you have finished the route if everything went well.
• Water: going out sailing in the sun contributes to dehydration. Although your dog will not be rowing, it is exposed to high temperatures and can suffer from heat stroke. For this reason it is important to carry water for the whole route, so that your pet does not drink sea water when it is thirsty, something that is certainly harmful to its health. Pay close attention to your dog's condition at all times and offer it water frequently, this way you will make sure it is in perfect condition at all times.

Tips for getting your dog used to water and boarding

Taking your pet on the board is not as easy as it sounds. It requires a process of adaptation to both the SUP and the environment, so you will have to be patient until the dog is used to it, turning a paddle surf outing into a pleasant moment in the company of its owner. To make it a success, you can follow these tips:

• Familiarize him with the board: a paddle surf board is not a natural environment for a dog. Therefore, he should get used to it first. Leave the board in the garden or backyard so he can sniff it, so he will get used to it. Ideally, he should start getting on the SUP by himself. A good way to do this is to leave treats on the board, so he will understand that it is a place to find food and, therefore, you will want to be there. Practice some commands to get on and off the board, so he will obey your instructions once you are in the water.
• Get him used to the life harness: the dog needs to become familiar with the use of the life harness. Put it on him a few days before at home, so he will spend time with it and be used to wearing it. This also allows you to check that it adapts to his size and that he wears it naturally before getting on the board.
• Bring treats: Rewards are always recommended. They will help you control the animal and make it listen to you when you tell it to get on the board or sit on it.
• Play with your dog: before going out on the road, spend a few minutes playing with your pet. You can throw a ball or his favorite toy first in the sand and then in the water, near the shore. This way he will become familiar with the environment, get used to the water and spend energy so that, once on the board, he will be calmer.
• Practice on the shore: even if they have already had contact with the board at home, it is positive that they also become familiar with it in the place where they are going to sail with it. Therefore, it is good to leave the board in the sand to practice getting on and off, and you can also start giving them orders to sit or lie down on the SUP.
• Short routes at the beginning: the first outings should not last more than one hour. Choose a short tour that allows the animal to get used to the board and the balance necessary to stay on it. These first times are best done in calm, windless waters, so that the dog does not get seasick. Don't forget to reward him when he reaches the shore and dedicate time to him as a reward for a good job.
• Trim his nails: do not forget to trim his nails to prevent him from pinching the board, especially if it is a large dog. Also, choose an appropriate place for your pet to ride on the board. If it is small, it can go in front, on the nose. If it is larger, it is recommended that it rides on the back of the board to better distribute the weight.

Do not forget that your pet is accompanying you while paddle surfing. Create an environment that is pleasant and comfortable for your dog, always ensuring its safety and well-being. And don't forget to enjoy the sea and the best company.

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Life is a journey to be experienced!