By Susan Peakall

Summer is almost here and that means fun on the water!  Whether you’re heading to the cottage for the weekend, boating on the lake, or just kicking back by the pool, you’ll want to have your dog by your side.  And you’ll want to ensure that your canine companion is safe while he enjoys the outdoors with you.

If you think that all dogs can swim, think again. Some breeds aren’t good swimmers, and some dogs simply don’t like to swim. If you have a dog that isn’t a natural swimmer or has any kind of fear or physical limitation regarding swimming ability, consider purchasing him a flotation device.

Canadian company Hooligan Gear makes a flotation device for dogs made from the same high quality materials as human life jackets. These pet flotation devices (PFDs) also have a double PU coating, so they don’t absorb water.

In addition to providing excellent buoyancy, the devices function as shock absorbers, lessening the impact of jumping into the water (or falling from a boat). They also feature reflective strips, ensuring that your dog is clearly visible in or out of the water.

The PFDs are available in royal blue and bright yellow in sizes XXS to L, and are styled to give dogs both freedom of movement and a secure fit.

As a long-time supporter of The Canadian Kennel Club, Hooligan Gear is pleased to offer CKC members a discount of 25 per cent on this innovative product. For more information, call (705) 788-9169