DogDaysofsummer

Kayaking And Paddleboarding

If non-motorized vessels are your preferred mode of aquatic transport, you can still easily bring along your dog. Paddleboards, especially, provide an easy platform for animals to occupy. The most important first step is just to familiarize your dog with the concept, and motion, of the board and to adjust your paddling to compensate for the extra weight and movement. As with boats, make sure your dog is wearing a vest. Pull away from the shore to prevent the jump-and-run instinct. Once you’re out on the water, start yourself in a sitting position so you can respond to your dog’s movement around the board. Get them accustomed to sitting on the front of the board, where they can lie flat and calm themselves. Always be prepared for a wild leap! Just like on a boat, dogs can spot exciting creatures (real or imagined) out in the water and launch themselves.

For comfort, boat rules apply. Make sure both human and canine have plenty of fresh water, a few snacks, maybe a small towel for traction. The main difference between a paddle and a boat day is the lack of shade. While the water may feel cool, remember that your passenger is likely in direct sunlight for the duration. Time your outings accordingly and adjust as needed. Another difference is that you’ll likely be away from land for longer stretches of time. If you plan to be out for a while, bring a short leash and plan a potty stop on an island, or at a public dock.

BEACHES & TERRESTRIAL ADVENTURES

Not all summer fun in the Keys happens out on the water. Some is just water-adjacent. With the daily pace of life slowing a bit, more owners find time to take their pups for a sunset run on the boulevard, or a morning trek to Truman Waterfront Park. While ticks are not as big a problem here as they are in the wooded, weeded north, it’s still good to be cautious. Dog parks can serve as a temporary jumping off point (pun intended) for fleas so it’s a good idea to keep your dog up to date with a broad spectrum flea/tick preventative. The same applies for keeping your dog up to date on their vaccines. Treat the dog park as a kindergarten class. You never know what germs someone else is packing.

Beyond basic healthcare and upkeep, hotter temperatures call for closer attention to your dog. Make sure you carry water for your companion, especially during the hotter months. Keep outdoor time during peak heat and UV hours limited. If you’re out for a longer stretch, make sure your pet can duck into a shady spot for relief. And the paws, don’t forget the poor paws. Each year, numerous groups publish PSAs on the risk of burns to a dog’s pads during warmer months. In the Keys, where the UV index hovers daily at the maximum level, it’s especially important to be aware of hard surfaces such as sidewalks. The American Kennel Club advises that if temperatures hit 85F, without a chance to cool, surfaces can cause burns. If your dog will tolerate booties, there is a wealth of adorable options. If not, paw protectants like Musher’s Secret (or Vaseline in a pinch) add some protection. Perhaps the best tactic though is to stick to the grass or time your wanders for early morning.

Land or sea, the goal is to keep your pet comfortable so you can both enjoy the day. The best advice for taking your dogs out on the water boils down to common sense. Basically, if you might need it, they might need it. Snacks? Likely. Water? Definitely. Life vest, sunscreen? Yes, yes. Dry soft towel? Of course. Even with the bit of extra effort, nothing compares to the bliss of having a dog accompany you for your summer outings. Ten out of ten. Highly recommend.

BY CAPT. BILL GILIBERTI

Your Guide As The Offshore Hunt Heats Up

MAHI-MAHI, ALSO KNOWN AS DOLPHIN OR DORADO, ARE ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER SPORTFISH HERE IN THE FLORIDA KEYS. NOT ONLY DO THEY PUT ON A SHOW, BUT THEY ARE ALSO EXCELLENT TABLE FARE. YOUR BEST CHANCE AT TARGETING THESE FISH IS TYPICALLY OFFSHORE BETWEEN MAY & OCTOBER.