dogs and cruising

[davidimu]

Does anyone have any information, experience with sailing with dogs on board? Any help in this regard would be most appreciated.

thanks
david pollitt

[Visigoda]

A friend buys a piece of sod for the stern of his boat and the dog goes on it. Astro turf works as well. Say to the dog it''s time to go for a walk and in about 3 to 4 days he understands its time to go. Besides they are great for telling you if someone is boarding that shouldn''t be.

[buppy_j]

Check out this web site. This couple are experts at sailing with dogs. They even write articles for magazines now about the pets onboard experience.
http://www.sailcharbonneau.com/

[Ludlow]

We sail with a schnauzer. He''s 8 now. We started him when he was 6 months old. We plan to leave for some long term cruising in the fall. What''s your question?
Ed

[slipacre]

Just finished first cruise with Zak 5 yr old standard Poodle.
Getting him to go while anchored out was a bit of a trial. Eventually he peed and pooped though he held it in longer than I would have believed possible. Used a plastic tray from Home Depot designed for under washing machines as a pee box.
The plank aprox 5 foot long 16 inches wide was critical for getting him on and off and up an down below.
He is not afraid of much - but he does not like rough seas at all. Will use tranquilizers (mild) next trip.
good luck
Todd V