Exploring the great Missouri outdoors on a float trip is a great way to back in touch with nature. Many dog owners want to share this experience with their dog, but are not sure if taking them on a float trip would be a good or bad idea. There are many factors that dog owners should take into consideration before packing up Fido and hitting the majestic rivers of Missouri.
Bugs are always a concern when enjoying the outdoors in the summer months. Fleas, ticks and other insects can cause dogs a multitude of ailments. A trip to the vet is always a good idea to make sure the dog is up to date on shots and has the correct insect repellent before heading off into the woods. Also, if the dog has other medical conditions such as arthritis or allergies one should consider whether the dog is physically able to go on a float trip.
Having a dog that is well trained is essential when taking it on a float trip. Nothing is more annoying when a dog is constantly jumping out of the canoe into the water or barking at other floaters going by on the river. The dog needs to be well socialized with people and other dogs too. A dog that is aggressive towards people or other dogs can be dangerous not only to others, but to itself. A well-trained dog is not only happier; they are also a joy to be around.
Extra supplies on the river are a must when taking a dog. Dog food, canine life jacket, bowls for food and water and a pet first aid kit are essentials that no responsible dog owner should be without. Some pet owners even provide protective footwear for their faithful companion to help prevent foot injuries. By packing these extra supplies can help insure that the dog has everything that they need to enjoy the float trip too.
Unfortunately it is not recommended that one take their dog in a raft. The reason for this is because the nails of the dog could puncture the rubber raft. A better alternative is to take them in a canoe instead. One should just make sure that when a dog is in a canoe that they are not jumping around. The constant jumping of the dog could cause the canoe to tip over. Hence why obedience training is essential for taking the dog in a canoe.
There are many factors that should be taken into consideration before taking a dog on a float trip. Taking the proper steps to see if a dog is healthy and well trained enough to take on a float trip can mean the difference between fun and misery on the river.
These are all good points. I have taken my dog numerous times over the years. He is very well behaved and loves to play and swim. He is great to have around camp because he alerts us to approaching people and walks my wife to the bathroom in the late evening.
My main annoyance is the raft issue. When we go with larger groups we like to raft but I’m stuck in a canoe with the dog and frankly I see no reason why he can’t be in the rafts too. Having been kayaking, canoeing, and rafting since grade school from everything from a calm slow stream to Class 5’s (not all in MO), I know what those rafts can take. Those rafts are built to drag across sharp rocks, tree branches, and the like and keep on going. That rubber can withstand a lot and I refuse to believe that my dogs groomed claws are going to be what does that raft in.
On the other side, I do know that my dog is a medium sized dog and larger dogs with larger claws (or similar sized dogs that aren’t as well groomed; i.e. sharper nails) may be more the concern. But even with a large dog I find it extremely unlikely that a dogs claws are going to puncture those rafts.
Why raft outfitters don’t simply put a policy in place that imposes rules for dogs in rafts is confusing to me. Simply make a refundable or non-refundable deposit ($50 seems reasonable) for possible damage. Add in some rules on nail trimming that must be seen and approved by staff prior to departing, and so on and I see no reason it can’t be done.
I understand both sides of the argument here. But I also remember a time when several outfitters would allow dogs in the rafts (no additional hassles). I’m sure this rule has been put in place like many other rules have, because of a few bad apples. But in my mind it just doesn’t seem right to punish the responsible folks for the sins of a few.
OMG an owl for water for a dog on the river is ESSENTIAL!!! Lmao amateur.