Must-have pet gear for your boat days

Does your dog love boating as much as mine does? Whenever we’re packing up our sunscreen, boating clothes, and picnic lunch, my labradoodle Millie starts shaking with excitement—especially if she sees us load the boat with life jackets. The more my family takes Millie out for boat rides, the more we’ve learned that it’s helpful to have a few specific products to keep her happy and safe during our lake day. Here are a few that we’ve found helpful.

Yeti Dog Bowl

My dog is hungry everywhere, and definitely loves dinner on the boat. If yours is the same, consider the Yeti Dog Bowl. It’s not only scoot-resistant and dishwasher safe, but it’s also insulated with Yeti’s vacuum process to maintain the temperature of your dog’s food or water. The rubber rim on the bottom isn’t a suction cup; instead, friction holds it firmly in place so your dog doesn’t have to chase it around the floor. Available in seven colors with the option to personalize it with your dog’s name, the four-cup version is a deal at $40. (www.yeti.com)

Waterproof Dog Collar

For the perfect collar for a dog that loves the outdoors, look no further than the Inshore Ambition from Boat Dog. This adjustable waterproof dog collar has a rugged outer layer that repels water, resists odors, and is easy to clean. Every collar fastens with a strong nylon buckle that endures exposure to all saltwater and freshwater environments. The 1/8-inch-thick stainless-steel D-ring is rust-resistant and can withstand even the strongest dogs. Plus, it’s a great deal at only $34.99. (www.boatdogcompany.com)

At just 10 years old, Larson Sailor purchased a 1964 Sanpan from his neighbor, the same neighbor to whom he delivered newspapers to. The original owner had bought the boat new, but because he was dying he wanted the young boy to have the boat.

That purchase marked the start of a memorable childhood. Like many in Indiana, Larson and his family enjoyed years on the local waters. He credits that first pontoon with sparking his lifelong passion for boating.

“My dad delivered papers to the guy who bought the boat, and that fellow was dying and wanted my dad to have it,” recalls Brent Sailor. “He went home and asked my grandpa if he could buy it. I believe the actual money came from my Grandpa. However, the boat was always considered my dad’s. His parents had other boats, but this boat was his to do with as he wished.”

Over the years, the vintage Sanpan remained in the family, eventually being used with his own young family. Brent recalls barely being tall enough to see over the steering wheel, but he would steer the boat while trolling at a slow speed while his dad fished off the back.

Protecting your pontoon from the sun can be difficult, especially in coastal environments. Waterfront Brands offers a solution with its new Coastal Canopy System, designed specifically for these conditions. The canopy features aluminum framing and marine-grade construction to withstand salt, sun and surf.

Designed for real-world performance, the Coastal Canopy System pairs corrosion-resistant materials with a streamlined, low-profile design that enhances both strength and aesthetics. Its modular framework simplifies installation and adapts easily across multiple boat lift and dock brands, while stocked and custom options give contractors and dealers the flexibility to meet diverse site requirements with confidence and efficiency.

“This canopy is about more than protection—it’s about bringing smart engineering and contemporary design together,” said Corey Duke, CEO of Waterfront Brands. “We worked closely across all of our teams and at every stage of development to ensure the Coastal Canopy System delivers the strength, longevity, and style today’s customers expect from a premium marine product.”