Summer means getting outside more with our dogs and enjoying the longer days and evenings, going for walks, and oftentimes playing in the water!    

If you’re planning on going to the lake this summer, playing in the pool, going boating, or even on a float trip with dogs then being prepared can make all the difference.    

Keeping our dogs safe particularly while boating, floating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or any other water sport is very important.  Even if your dog is a natural-born swimmer the addition of a life vest can make it just a little easier for them to enjoy the water and safer if they get tired out.  You know some of our dogs just keep going and going and don’t know when to stop and rest.    

A life vest if very important for our smaller dogs and dogs that aren’t necessarily very strong swimmers – e.g. the bully breeds including Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs,  pit bulls, etc. and even some other larger breeds.    

Making sure the life jackets are comfortable, that they fit well and that they keep your dog afloat is very important.    

Our life jackets from Bay Dog  have the following great features:    

Ultra buoyant US Coast Guard-approved environmentally friendly NBR foam    

Highly visible ripstop fabric    

Fully adjustable waist and neck straps    

Ergonomic fit    

Low profile handle for easier lift up into a boat    

Keeps your dog in a natural swimming position    

Reflective piping    

D-ring so you can attach your leash    

Fits dogs 10 lb – 110 lbs    

If your dog loves the water then most likely they love to play with fun water toys.    

The Zogoflex Air and SeaFlex toys from West Paw Design are awesome.  They’re great for playing on the land and in the water perfect for chasing and fetching.  They’re durable but squishy making them the perfect toy for the summer for dogs of all ages.  Plus with fun shapes and colors and cool names like Wox, Box and Dash – who doesn’t love them?    

Another great water toy is getting an amphibious buoy to throw in the water.  They’re bright so you can see them in the water, a great shape for grabbing, and an awesome weight for throwing so you can get some distance.  A perennial favorite among the dock diving dog set!    

These are just a couple of highlights.  We have a great selection of pet gear for the summer including other water toys, portable water bowls, running leads, flying discs and so much more!    

It’s summer!  Have fun!  Play with your dog!