I HAVE WATCHED MY FAMILY FOR YEARS LOAD THEIR HUNTING DOGS IN THE BOAT TO GO DUCK HUNTING AND THEY NEVER HAD JACKETS. I JUST REALLY DON'T KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER HERE.

Pros: VERY IMPORTANT TO HAVE

Cons: NONE

I bought two of these a while back, my husband laughed at me, because you see,we are not big boaters or anything, but we love to go swimming in the lake and the dogs go too. They are able to stay out with us and have a nice time cruising around in the water while we swim too. Don't have to worry abought them getting over tired, and they do not panic like they do without the vest. Another BIG PLUS is the bright color, it can be seen by the many jet skiers, so it provides even more safety. The vest also has a handle on the back for easy control.
The vest even helped our new pup who was terrified of the water to now be a great swimmer.

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[updated on 2007-11-16 21:36:32]:
Need to purchase another vest, but don't no where to find. Please help.

Pros: great safety product

Cons: Not easy to find

I think this vest is absolutely neccesary for any animal that is around the ocean/pond/canoe/swimming pool....Even larger dogs need the help when they swim - I feel much safer using this item when ever we go out on the ocean -especially since you hear stories periodically about people losing their dog on a boat on the ocean!!Definitely a neccesity!

Pros: great for safety

Cons: dog needs to get use to it!

Great idea and great protection for your boating loving dog.

Pros: Great idea

Cons: Getting the dog used to the jacket

I have these for my dogs, and I sell them at my store. Living at the beach, many dogs go out on their owners' boats. No matter how well a dog can swim, most cannot manage the swim ladder. The life jacket has a loop on the top of the back to allow one to lift the dog back into the boat. Many also have a wide nylon belly band where the clasps are, to help protect the dog's abdomen during the lifting. They come in easily visible neon colors, which can help find the dog if they get caught in a rip tide.

Pros: Safety

Cons: none