Jupiter Shares Your Love of Paddling With Your Children and Furry Friends

Article by Alex Cotleur
Photo by Alex Cotleur

Summer is in full swing and our waterways are buzzing with activity in July. Water-based camps are thriving, tourism is booming and locals are out enjoying every drop of blue water and sunshine. The snowbirds may have flown north, but do not be fooled, the waterfront is anything but sleepy.

Paddlers Andy and Suzette with their raccoon Meeko. Kids and pets can add to the experience on the water.

Paddling with a child or pet requires experience to ensure safety. Children aged 6 and under must wear a life jacket. It is highly recommended that the child sits up independently and be able to swim. Start in a slow wake zone and for short distances while you get used to the extra shifting weight, and they get used to the glide.

Once confident, give them a mask or goggles and let them hang off the board as you paddle. It keeps them entertained and helps improve your balance. The best time to go depends on what you want to do. Low tide offers a sandbar where kids can explore and play, while high tide offers the opportunity for snorkeling and paddleboard games, but less beach.

Paddling with pets grabs attention and inspires smiles. Introduce pets to water at an early age in calm conditions and over short distances. Treats and patience are key! Pets are not required to wear a life jacket, but it is recommended. If they fall off, a life jacket provides a handle to help get them back on. Boards with padding covering most of the board are better for traction and to avoid scratches. If your board has minimal padding, dog traction pads are available. Using a leash while paddling depends on the animal. I use one with mine, it keeps her close if she falls off. Low tide exposes all the sandbars making it an ideal time for dogs.

Etiquette with kids and pets is worth mentioning. Social paddles may not be child- or pet-friendly. Check with the event host first. If pets are welcome, keep them off other people’s boards and within voice command when not leashed. Most local county launch spots allow dogs on a leash while in the park. Coral Cove, the Jupiter Lighthouse and Sawfish Bay Park all prohibit dogs.

Sharing the love of paddling with children connects them with nature and inspires them to become future environmental stewards. Pets get a better quality of life than if they were left at home and you get longer time on the water. When you are ready to begin adding paddling to your lifestyle, please visit www.letspaddlejupiter.com.