Just thought, we need to get 2 life-jackets for our dogs before we can venture out. Any recommendations regarding make and type, and a good place to buy from? Thanks
Our 35kg Staffie/Alsation cross has a Canine Spirit lifejacket, not cheap but very well made. He also has the secure lift harness which is properly made for lifting him safely, again not cheap but works very well.
Having had a few jackets for my dogs I have used a few and the favourite I was told was crewsaver ones, but I find they slip round on smaller dogs so I used the Ruff wear, and then on a visit to the States I found one called Paws Aboard and they are sold through a UK Co called Sure Pets.
I am far from happy about the design of dogie life jackets.
I tested mine on my Labrador.
However the life jacket added buoyancy to the back which lifted the back forcing a considerable effort in keeping the head above the water.
Bit like putting arm bands on your feet.
I suggest a far better solution is to cut a pipe insulation into 2 inch lengths and add them to an over sized collar, double.
Dogs are much happier in and out the water, when they get tired they float , head/nose out the water.
They can still swim without restriction.
Someone should design one to incorporate a spray hood.
Sorry, I know you all want the best for your pets but they do more harm than good.
Well theres a first, I agree and we were very careful in our selection. Our dogs jacket has a double thoickness of bouyancy stuff under the chin lifting the head up. The other thing is an easy to use lifting loop on the back allowing extraction by boat hook.