Our state is well-known for many reasons, and among our tremendous natural resources and stunning beauty, Montana’s waterways are especially legendary. Not coincidentally, the combination of an avid angler with a well-trained hound is not a rare sight around these parts. However, while there are those that simply wouldn’t dream of leaving their dog at home, there are others that do not appreciate a canine’s presence while fishing.
While we’re not experts on the sometimes-complicated dynamics between anglers, we do know a thing or two about the ways to keep your dog safe while fishing. Ready to make a splash? Let’s dive right in…
The Basics
Let’s say you are the type of angler that not only feels happier when Fido comes along, but you feel an overwhelming sense of security too. Pay that forward by outfitting your special pooch with a properly-fitted personal flotation device, or dog life jacket.
Perfect for fishing from the boat or shore, a life jacket could very well save your dog’s life. Hint: We like the ones that have a gripping handle in case you have to pick your dog up from the water, or don’t have a boat ladder.
Intro’s and Training
If your dog hasn’t accompanied you before, it’s likely that you’ll spend most of the trip teaching or guiding him or her. You could start off by playing and wearing your dog out a bit and then launch into a short fishing attempt. Either way, be patient and always keep your eyes on your dog.
As we mentioned earlier, it may be to your benefit to avoid other anglers – at least until your dog gets a handle on your purpose. To keep your dog safe while fishing, it’s a great idea to establish obedience training. Non-verbal commands (hand gestures) could very well help your daily catch, but keeping him or her to calmly remain near you will also keep your pup safe.
The Shiny Stuff
Speaking of safety, you really want to avoid your dog getting hooked anywhere on his or her face, paws, or body. The first step in this endeavor is to obviously store your lures, hooks, and bait securely in a closed tackle box. To keep your dog safe while fishing try these additional steps:
- Prepare a single fly or lure at any given time and stow unused equipment as soon as you can
- When casting make sure your dog is nowhere near your line.
- Never walk away from your pole with a hook or bait on it
Accidents Happen
If your dog gets hooked, barbs make it nearly impossible (and very painful) to ease it out the way it went in. Immediate veterinary care is recommended, and surgery may be required to mitigate damage in the mouth, esophagus, or stomach. Do your best to calm your dog down, restrict his or her access to the hook, and seek help promptly.
If your dog has a fish hook in his or her lip, and you are in a remote area, follow these steps:
- Restrain your dog and try to use pliers to push the hook back through the lip.
- This may cause more damage, but if you can see the barb on the hook try to cut it off or squish it with your pliers.
- Call us as soon as you get back into town for advice or treatment options, such as antibiotics
Another vital element to keep your dog safe while fishing involves inhibiting the consumption of fishing line. Intestinal obstruction is a true pet emergency and care should never be delayed.
Keep Your Dog Safe While Fishing
Above all, make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water and watch carefully for any signs of heatstroke. Your faithful companion will thank you for the experience!
If you have any questions on additional ways to keep your dog safe while fishing, we are always here for you. Have fun and be safe!
