Sailing With Dogs in the Lowcountry: Tips for a Safe, Fun Day on the Water
Simple ways to help your pup enjoy smooth sailing all summer long
Story By Bailey Gilliam
Sailing through the calm waters of the Lowcountry is a joy in itself, but toss a wagging tail into the mix, and the adventure gets a whole lot better. With peaceful inlets, wide marshes and a famously dog-loving community, this place was practically built for canine captains. From Calibogue Sound to the Beaufort River and beyond, you and your salty sidekick can sail safely if you take a little time to plan ahead.
Building your dog’s sea legs
Dogs are natural explorers, but that does not mean they are born ready to sail. Give them time to build their sea legs, one paw at a time. Practice commands on dry land. Once they can master “stay” and “leave it” without trying to chase a seagull, you are ready to move on. Let your pup sniff around the boat while it is still tied up, and watch them get used to the wobbly floor. They might look confused at first, but it beats fishing them out of the water later.
Gear up for safety
Your dog might think it can swim like a champion, but even the best dog paddler needs a life jacket. Measure carefully so it is snug but comfy, and double-check that the top handle can lift your pup if it goes overboard. Bonus points if the life jacket has neck floats which keep your pup’s adorable head above water and save you from a soggy dog rescue mission. Let your pup try it on ahead of time and take a practice swim. Nobody wants a fashion meltdown the moment you cast off.
Best routes for pups
The Lowcountry has routes that are gentle enough for first-time sea dogs. Broad Creek and Skull Creek are about as chill as it gets. St. Helena Sound is another good pick, with sandbars and wildlife to keep your dog’s nose busy. The water around Pine Island is perfect for a shallow splash session, though you will want to check the tides and keep an eye out for hidden oyster beds; nobody wants a paw cut from a sneaky shell. If your dog needs a potty break, Mitchelville Beach is pet friendly, which makes it a doggy paradise. No beach in sight? Train your pup to use an on-board potty area with fake grass or pee pads.
Keeping paws cool and protected
Summer means sunshine but also scorching hot boat decks. If it is too hot for your bare feet, it is too hot for your pup’s paws. Lay down towels or foam mats so they can lounge in comfort like the furry royalty they are. Cooling bandanas can keep them from overheating, and paw balm helps protect from heat and salt. Dog booties are also a smart move if your beach of choice is sprinkled with sharp shells. Give your dog’s paws a quick rinse after each shore visit to keep them from itching or having your dog lick off the salt. A spray bottle of fresh water does the trick.
Hydration and sun care
Nobody wants a sunburned dog. Pack plenty of fresh water, find shady spots whenever you can, and use dog-safe sunscreen on pups with thin coats or light coloring. A dog-focused first-aid kit is a good idea, complete with tick prevention, seasickness meds and anything else your pup needs to stay shipshape. And keep the number of a local vet handy; better safe than sorry when you are out on the waves.
No boat? No problem
Not ready to buy a boat just yet? Plenty of local charters and ferries welcome dogs with open arms and a pat on the head. On Hilton Head, Anchors Away Sailing Charters, Dolphin Discoveries, Over Yonder Charters and Captain Buddy’s are all dog-friendly. In Beaufort, River Excursions and Otter Sailing Adventures love four-legged passengers. It is a great way to test if your pup is truly a sea dog or more of a couch captain.
Enjoy the ride
Sailing with your dog is a memory in the making. Stick to short, calm trips at first, keep comfort and safety top of mind, and always pay attention to your dog’s limits. The easy tides and quiet marshes of the Lowcountry make a perfect playground for you and your first mate. And when you see that wet nose, wagging tail and a happy shake spraying salty water in every direction, you will know you made the right choice bringing them along.
Emergency kit for Salty Dogs
A dog emergency kit might sound silly until you need it. Store it in a waterproof box or dry bag, check it now and then, and be sure everyone knows where it is.
Basic supplies
- Gauze pads and rolls
- Adhesive medical tape
- VetWrap bandage
- Antiseptic wipes or solution
- Hydrogen peroxide (3 percent)
- Tweezers
- Blunt-tip scissors
- Digital thermometer (a dog’s normal temperature is about 101 to 102.5)
- Latex or nitrile gloves
Medications
- Seasickness medicine (vet-approved dose)
- Benadryl (check with your vet)
- Dog-safe antibiotic ointment
- Pain reliever from your vet
- Flea and tick preventative
- Eye wash
- Dog-safe sunscreen
Special boating items
- Cooling towel
- Tick removal tool
- Booties or paw balm
- Pet-safe peroxide cleaner
- Emergency contact list for vets and animal hospitals
Documentation
- Vaccination records
- Microchip number
- Photo of your dog
