One of the biggest learning curves for me was going form the safety net of living at a marina for 5 years, to casting off the lines and making large ocean transits. Before we set sail on our journey around the world, Logan had only ever done an overnight sail, where he was able to swim to land to everyday.
Our longest transit to date was 35 days from Panama to the Marquesas. We had already had a few week long trips under our belt, but the month at sea taught us a lot about sailing, as well as staying safe at sea with Logan.
Crate train your pet
One of my favorite safety items is Logan’s crate. We have a monohull, so generally we are either leaning to port or to starboard, making everyone a potential projectile if a large roller comes through. I like a soft sided crate (https://amzn.to/3OKbvLv) as it stows easily when we are not underway and it easily fits in between our setee and table. If you have a smaller dog, or are looking to boost your safety, an airline crate would be a great option (https://amzn.to/459IXkg).
Safety Netting
Whether you’re on a monohull or a catamaran, you are going to want to invest in some safety netting around your life lines (https://amzn.to/3Ywn2kX). This gives us extra peace of mind while underway, as well as at anchor if Logan decides to go outside while we are asleep. We do not like to leave him outside while we are away, but I know some people do, and the netting helps keep them from jumping off the boat.
Floatation
Having worked in the pet industry for over a decade, I have been through many life Jackets. In my opinion, Ruffwear makes one of the best life jackets on the market (https://ruffwear.com/products/float-coat-dog-life-jacket). It has lasted significantly longer than any other life jacket I have used before. It is very durable and has stood up for the past 3 years with consistent use (even the color has stayed!) I like that there are clips on the back so I can actually clip Logan into the cockpit when the seas are rough.
Medical Kit
Before setting off, I worked with a veterinarian who was extremely helpful in building a medical kit for our Journey. I was lucky in that she is a veterinarian for the Iditarod, so has a lot of experience with injuries sustained in isolated areas of the world. I would talk to your vet about what they think your dog (or cat) needs as they know them best. Here are some of the things I have in my Dog Med Kit:
Antibiotics (Doxycyline, Cephalexin, Metronidazole)
Benedryl
Antibiotic Ointment
Staple Gun
Vet wrap
Muzzle
Splint (rolled up news paper also works)
Mushers Secret
Dog Carry Sling (if hiking, it allows me to carry him out of the bush on my back)
Gauze
Hydrogen Peroxide (great for cleaning and inducing vomiting)
Soft E-Coller (cone)
Saline solution (for cleaning out eyes)
Povidine Iodine
Tweezers
Scissors
Ivermectin
Thermometer
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