It's bring your dog to paddle day!

This paddle is for beginner dogs (and their owners).  However, if you are friendly with dogs but don't own one (or don't want to take it on the water) please come and help out! We will meet at DOD Ponds to organize boats and talk about basic safety for both you and your dog.

When you RSVP please tell me if you're bringing your dog and its approximate size.

What is recommended strongly for this paddle:

A boat that your dog and you can fit in at the same time (sit on tops are wonderful for this)

A PFD for your pup and for yourself*

LOTS of dog treats! Bring the really good ones... you may need them

A non-flexi line of at least 15 feet (if your dog has really good recall this isn't necessary)

You may also want to bring a disposable bath mat for traction for your dog in the kayak

                 *Trust me when i say that it is a myth that all dogs can swim.

Another note about dog PFDs.  There are a million brands out there.  Kibeth has two kinds.  One is from MTI, and holds the dog more horizontally in the water.  For a dog that is a little nervous about the water, this is an excellent choice.  For dogs that are a bit more comfortable in the water I recommend the a brand called Ruffwear. The reason I like this brand is because if I have to partially lift him by the handle on the back of the jacket there is material that continues around the girth of the dog, not just straps. I also like that I am able to lift him by the handle on the top. Even if your dog is too big to lift, the handle is an aid to help the dog back into the boat.  Astral has just come out with a very durable PFD that comes in some really attractive colors.  Since dog PFDs are not regulated the same way as human ones, please be aware that a dog PFD is only an aid for flotation, not a life-saving device (although it may perform in that capacity).

As far as sizing the PFDs, please get one that is snug on the dog when the fasteners are shut. The length of the PFD is not as important as the fit around the dog's chest. For male dogs, please make sure that the PFD is short enough so that they can go to the bathroom with it on!

Please exercise active dogs thoroughly before the meetup.  Younger, energetic dogs may need to be a little tired so that they will sit quietly in a kayak.

If you are interested in coming, but are worried that your boat is not right for both you and your dog I will be bringing three sit-on-tops that people are welcome to take turns trying. As a note to all paddlers if you have a kayak that you are willing to let someone try that you think might help out, please bring it! Not everyone that is interested in paddling with their dog has a boat that is right for them. For small dogs a boat with a larger cockpit should be sufficient. For larger dogs, a sit-on-top might be the best option.

Please know the limitations of your dog. If your dog is easily stressed, elderly, or arthritic watch carefully for the signs that the dog is overstimulated. If your dog is aggressive please do not bring him/ her. If this is the problem, talk to me at the paddle (without your dog) or on the phone and we can discuss ways to safely try the dog in the boat.

THIS IS ONE PADDLE WHERE YOU ARE GUARANTEED TO GET WET!

Feel free to call me with questions, concerns, etc. [masked]

Important: The Delaware Valley Kayakers collects no dues and assumes no responsibility.
 
NOTICE: By attending an event you are agreeing that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. No member of the group EXCEPT YOURSELF can be held responsible for any damages, accidents, or liabilities incurred while paddling with us.

Paddling is an inherently dangerous sport. Information is provided with the understanding that the providers are not engaged in rendering advice on technical matters, equipment performance, safety, or any other aspect of the sport in absolute terms or advocating any of the techniques or experiences described.