Taking our Dog Cruising on a Sailboat in the Caribbean - what we need to do.

Rules & Regulations begin at 10:00.
Should you bring your dog along to the Caribbean? We talk about life aboard with a dog, regulations, and poop. It can be a pain in the *ss, but for us, we wouldn't do it without our dog Sugar. We do a country by country pet import breakdown on which are easy, which are challenging, and which are hard.
Our changing plans because of Sugar: • Old Sea Dogs, a Rig Pr...
Resources:
Comprehensive list of rules and regs: www.pettravel....
Deveaux the Vet in BVI: [e-mail]
This guy will expedite Bahamas application. Wellington Saunders [e-mail]
iTunes Podcast: podcasts.apple...
Private Fb Group: / 475364229906600
Products we use: www.amazon.com...
Website: www.sailclarity.com
___
Nick's Books and Audiobooks:
Get Her on Board is about getting that significant other to buy into this cruising nonsense. People seem to like it. All proceeds go to our dog Sugar.
Audiobook: www.audible.co...
Book:
www.amazon.com...
Live on the Margin is about making money on the go trading stocks and options. I co-wrote it with Pat Schulte of Bumfuzzle. People seem to like that one too. All proceeds donated to our boat.
Audiobook: www.audible.co...
Book:
www.amazon.com...
Audiobooks:
Bumfuzzle - Just out Looking for Pirates.
You know these guys, and now you know me, so have a listen.
www.audible.co...
Bound for Distant Seas, by James Baldwin
James is the real deal and this his story of adventure aboard a small, simple boat.
www.audible.co...
__

[@user9b2]

Sugar is having a wonderful life. Good on you guys.

[@rustyjeff3007]

Best video on dogs I've seen. Thanks for making this. I have 2 young Aussie Shepards so its always something I look for. 1 thing is for sure they will be coming with, when I get a cat.

[@TheOKellys]

Right on! My uncle had Aussies. You are going to be running that beach! Hope we see you out here soon. Nick

[@AmeriMutt76]

Best video on cruising with dogs that I've come across! Thanks guys. My guy Ivan is 11 and terrified of water deeper than his chest, so lakes and coasts are the most he can handle, but as a dog lover who wants to cruise, pure gold!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Mike. When Sugar was a puppy she was pretty frightened of the water, but we kept taking her to the lake and throwing her ball further and further. Now you can't keep her out! Good luck with Ivan! Appreciate the note. Nick

[@SeanCrowne333]

This was the single most helpful video on sailing with a dog I’ve found yet. Thank you. I’ve been holding off sailing because of my dog family.and this has given me hope.

[@TheOKellys]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dirkhelmstaedt2072]

Again, a great video! All of your episodes, and especially this one, seem to be very "timely" for us...countdown is on, house just sold, things just got real!

[@TheOKellys]

That's awesome. Congratulations. We've done this a few times now and it is much easier to come back than it is to go. Real is what it's all about. Hope we see you out here soon. Nick

[@BarracudaHawk]

Thank you for putting me on to this lovely video . We have this looming over us with our beautiful Retriever. I just know she will be happier with a good friend that she knows well, than with us on a cat. Makes us so sad thinking about what’s coming. Been with her almost all day every day of her life. We go everywhere together.

[@TheOKellys]

Ugh I'm so sorry you're going through this, it's the hardest thing we've ever been through. It was a challenge at times on the boat but like your dog, she just wanted to be wherever we were and handled the boat like a champ.

[@BarracudaHawk]

The O'Kelly's Thanks for the encouragement . Time will tell .. love the videos btw. I’ve flown all my life and now to sail the rest of it ! Just a little bit of waiting..... no way around that !

[@Gunnie1961]

Nick, Megan & Sugar, enjoy your family fun videos of sailing. Having a 14 year old pup myself I can completely understand the ups and downs along with the real life dealings of pet life. Great video.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Robert. She's got her good days and bad days...like all of us I suppose. Appreciate the note.

[@Jakfilm]

We've just wrapped up our first season cruising in the Caribbean. We left our wee man at home with our kids. This year he's coming along, and I am sure it's gonna be the next real learning curve. Thanks for this.

[@TheOKellys]

Right on. Definitely a new level of complexity, but so nice to have them on board. Good luck! Report back! Nick

[@suziq5293]

Sugar is one lucky dog, I can’t imagine leaving my pooch behind, fair winds,

[@TheOKellys]

She is. I think she knows it. We are lucky too.

[@GrantGrove]

We put an astro turf pad on deck 3X5 for our dog. She kept a lot of unwanted strangers off the boat and minimal challenges when checking in. A couple of vet inspections but all our shots were up to date. I loved having "Shadow" a sckipperky all black with big white teeth.

[@TheOKellys]

Love the Sckipperky's! Now that's the right size dog for a boat! Yeh, dogs are excellent security on the boats, and excellent companions when the weather gets snotty!

[@sailingcruiser25]

Just found your videos and subscribed! We have two labs onboard and wouldn't cruise without them. We really appreciate all the info in this video as making sure our pets are safe and able to check into a foreign country without being quarantined is a top priority. Our plans are to Cruise from Nova Scotia to Bahamas and saw that you'll also be heading to Maine this summer. We'll be in the Acadia area towards the end of July, so maybe by chance we'll share an anchorage and Sugar can meet our two dogs.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks David. We've been told that NS is even better than Maine as no lobster pots! That would be fun to meet up. Our plans are completely depended on Sugar's health these days. She is having good days and bad days. But it would be incredible to meet up in a beautiful spot. We are going to do our best to keep these videos going in real time, so if you see us on video in the area, chances are we are actually there. If not up there, then perhaps down here. BTW, more Canadians than Americans in a lot of these anchorages. See you soon, Nick

[@meganokelly]

Thanks David, I really hope we can meet up this summer!

[@bretwoodall106]

Thank You, my sweet Mojo kitty just went off to college early at 16yrs. old. Hope he's having a grand time. May you find favorable winds and a follwing sea.

[@TheOKellys]

Bret I'm sorry. That's a bummer. 16 years though! Appreciate the note, and I wish you the same perfect breeze and a smooth sea. Nick

[@yvonnenystrom]

We have a 12 year old Maltese and he’s part of our life as well and he’s not going to stop us from cruising!!

[@soundbeings1]

Another very informative video guys - congrats. A great piece of advice I got early in my former career - when dealing with bureaucrats - 'always keep a big slice of humble pie in your locker/glove box'. Works a treat! Fair winds.

[@TheOKellys]

That's good advice. Always be the polite guest I say, no matter how the host treats you...

[@svens.5139]

Love the way you treat your dog and that you are always stay close with her. Greets from Germany.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Sven. She is definitely the center of our world these days. She's having good days and bad days. So glad we decided to stop here for a while. Best to you, Nick

[@marianaagra5474]

Thanks so much. This is one of the best videos I’ve seen on cruising with dogs. Really helpful!

[@CBa-ln6yx]

I'm so happy you are dog lovers! I have two cairn terriers and I take them on the boat as often as I can. This is the n° 1 vlog for sailing and dogs :)

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you for the very kind words. Two terriers! Wow! They keep each other relaxed? or the opposite? THat's great you take them along. These guys just want to be with us no matter what we are doing I think. Nick

[@Frindleeguy]

Nick has a great voice! I see you narrate a few audio books, I'm not surprised. I wish you much success!

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you. Yes, the audiobooks are fun. Time-consuming to do, but fun.

[@fungato4clown1]

Great knowledge on the needs to go through on the dog requirements per country.

[@steverobinson5492]

Sugar!!!! The ultimate click bait. Jules and I love her. Tx Guys. Cheers.

[@TheOKellys]

Sorry, couldn't help myself. She's irresistible.

[@rpm2746]

Thanks for taking the time to make this video. One of the most informative to date. We have 2 dogs and it is not even a consideration not to include them. Look forward to more great videos. PS - Thanks also for the video about the weather forecasting tools and your storm story. Very information and educational. Safe travels and I hope Sugar stays in high school for a very long time.

[@TheOKellys]

Awwww....thank you. I hope she never graduates... Will do some more weather stuff coming up here as we get ready to push north. Appreciate the note. Fair winds. Nick

[@backthebadge4009]

Good for you guys following the rules. I have a real problem with rule benders, and there is a lot of cruisers in that category

[@TheOKellys]

I agree. We do our best to make things easy for everyone.

[@pmarr98]

Thanks for the video. I went back and re-watched this since we now have an olde English bulldogge named Stella who’s is now 10 months old. We have a 40 ft monohull and looking to get a cat soon and sail away but we still need to get to boys through college it costal sailing for now . We already feel tied to the house let alone the boat. We really miss seeing sugar on your channel

[@dwtrksvc]

She is a beautiful dog and I can only imagine how many people will be upset when she "goes off to college." Wonderful video.

[@TheOKellys]

She’d headed off this last January. We miss her everyday.

[@deemacvee1]

Just came across your channel today. (Anchoring with wife. Haha) I think I am going to enjoy your ride. Our travels revolve around our pups too. Between our quarantine laws and national parks restrictions in Australia, it can be challenging.

[@TheOKellys]

Cool! Welcome and glad to have you along! Yes, we heard that about Australia. Did you hear about Johnny Depp brining his pup in without paying the price? We anchored in front of his island this season and there is a sign that says, "This is not Disney, you are not welcome." Turnabout is fair play I suppose, eh? Well, when Sugar does go off to college, we really want to come down there for a visit. We just watched a film called Red Dog and while it was really really sad, we got the itch to come take a look for ourselves. Thanks for the note! Nick

[@VasilisZamanisAB]

Special hugs and kisses to Sugar !!!

[@rickreid8149]

Great subject matter as we have a dog too however to get into Australia is expensive so we don't go to Australia plenty of other places visit until he also goes to college and I hope that is a long way off and for you also ... Thank you for sharing this Megan and Nick loved it

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Warwick. When Sugar goes off to college, we are going to name a fake university after her. University of Piggie sounds about right.

[@user9b2]

Attitude makes a huge difference in terms of how people act towards oneself. Good info. 👍👍

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Sam. I couldn’t agree more!

[@tainuijeffreys9957]

Good for you guys and great for sugar. I really enjoy your pet interactions and appreciate this video, answered some thoughts I had about this so thanks for that. Happy times.

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you for the note. Happy to help in any way we can. Happy times indeed. Best, Nick

[@haroldlypshytz3351]

You need to get "Sugar" a puppy sister....The puppy will rejuvenate her! She will train it! The puppy will later be protective towards her. This is from experience....when she is no longer there, you will miss the hair! And everything else that goes along with it! Trust me on this one...we've done it both ways! Not being prepared is going to be devastating....you're home, now is the time to do it! But, on the other hand, if you're okay with a complete life style change, so be it. This is not by any means suggesting that you toss one to the curb, she will always be #1 in your hearts, and you just have to keep letting her know it....the pup will mourn with you too...when the time comes. My thoughts...Bin there, done it! Thanks for all the great informational "vids"! Very entertaining! Keep up the awesome work!

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you for the wisdom. We tried a Sugarbuddy years and years ago. It was pretty clear she’d prefer to be an only child. We are doing well and enjoying every day. Our old girl seems to appreciate being in port. Appreciate the note Harold.

[@peterstarkey1360]

Sugar is absolutely marvelous. .what a treasure...our little fellow is a pure Maltese. ..14 & 1/2 years...Oscar Indy Coppinger/Starkey..Oscy or Boo Boo for short...What a treasure they are...cheers

[@TheOKellys]

now that's a good size boat dog! Thanks for the note Peter.

[@meganokelly]

Treasure is a great word and I love his nick names! Sugar has many too like Piggy and Duger da gear shoo.

[@michaelrouse627]

We’ll be cruising with our labradoodle so having this information will be very helpful. If y’all head north do you think you’d be going to the Annapolis boat show in Oct? Always nice to meet good people who are knowledgeable and enjoy sharing information.

[@TheOKellys]

You know we were just kicking that idea around of working that into the plan. The boat needs a bottom job and we hear there are lots of facilities there. I normally don't really like boat shows much, but a few people have said that Annapolis is special. It would be cool to meet folks there as well. A labradoodle, eh? There's one on a boat around here close by I think. They were making a LOT of trips to shore. I think it was a puppy. We didn't talk about it since (like labradoodles) Sugar doesn't shed much, but that would be a consideration for a boat-pup. Appreciate the note! Trying to pass on whatever hard-won experience we might have.

[@h.v7461]

Excellent points on pet ownership at sea. It’s a huge responsibility, but a rewarding one for sure. Thanks for sharing. Cheers 🍻

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks for the note. Sugar passed away and we really miss having her energy around on the boat. They are best friends for sure.

[@h.v7461]

The O'Kelly's: OMG, I’m so sorry for your loss. Sorry, just catching up on your episodes. My condolences. RIP.

[@RenM908]

My dad changed his boat for our family dog. Side netting around the boat to help avoid dog overboard(which is great for small children too), lifejacket with a tethering system for the dog, ramp system for the dog in the back to get out of the water, he has a pee station thats like grass for the dog. My siblings and I joked that he loves the family dog more than his own children 😂. The dog is a dachshund which my dad got because he wanted a small dog that he could take with him off the boat and not worry about “how do I transport a large dog especially if I need to get on a plane/public transportation quickly?” He fits in a bag pretty easily. My dad has a gun onboard though lol.

[@GrantGrove]

Really good island over-views.

[@jackiemauro4774]

Always so much great info and you guys are so fun to watch

[@kyrastuart1920]

This is great information. We have three puppers between the ages of 10 and 15, as well as a Velociraptor, I mean parrot, and I don't like to be away from them for more than a few hours. It's kept us landbound, for now.

[@kyrastuart1920]

And we have family in Australia, but taking critters there might be problematic. :(

[@TheOKellys]

It seems SoPac, NZ and Oz are pretty much all no-go for critters. Your Velociraptor (lol) might make good crew though...put him/her on watch! Thanks for the kudos on the video.

[@jacorin]

You aren't allowed to have your avian friend in Australia, totally a no go, due to our quarantine laws.It's why our native species are all smuggled out,and others smuggled in. Dogs too, I think,quarantine for dogs is something like 6 months( I could e wrong)

[@kyrastuart1920]

Shane Villis Just as well, since she would realize how much I love Gallahs, lol.

[@jacorin]

@@kyrastuart1920 Galah, just to show I'm a dick :P

[@fredwallis8198]

Great vid about pets aboard. Looking to close on a Privilege 395 next month. Have an 11 year old dog and 12 year old cat that will be crew. They both have Belgium health passports. Will be starting from Greece in a year or so. Good luck with Sugar, great you are heading to Maine with her. Recommend North East Harbour. Great restaurant next to the Hinckley boatyard. 35 years ago, had a lobster special, 2 for 12$. Fair winds and following seas on your trip north.

[@TheOKellys]

Congratulations! That's awesome. The whole world should use something similar to the EU pet passport. Just makes so much sense! Thank you for the tips. Hope we make it that far north. Thanks....now I am really hungry! Enjoy that plush new ride! Good boats. Best to you, NIck

[@HopeOfJoe]

Nice run-thru of all the requirements and the "results" we might expect. GReat info. !! Thank you> 💖🌸 💕💖

[@TheOKellys]

There are a lot of gray areas, that's for sure. Wish they did it like Europe does with the pet passport. Makes so much sense! Thanks Richard

[@Starmania_FR]

Very informative video. I'm watching you from France, your videos are very interesting. Thank you.

[@stephaniecarey1869]

Loving your Southern Soul BBQ t-shirt....i'm from SSI and I went to school with the owners of Southern Soul!

[@bobsdogtag]

I love good dog stories

[@TheOKellys]

Me too

[@msears101]

I have travelled with my cat. I know all about the USDA Vet Stamp. Places like England and Hawaii are pretty tough. The rules are enforced. Flying into heathrow you do not bring your pet on the plane.Your pet is in the cargo hold. HARC (Heathrow Animal Reception Centre) receives your pet directly from the airline. You will pick them up at HARC. You do not walk through the airport with your pet. Your pet, their paper work, and customs all have to clear HARC and various officials before you can see your pet. All paper work is pre cleared a week before you take off and recleared on arrival. A Customs official has to sign off in person before you can bring you pet in. In Hawaii, depending on your island, you either go into quarantine, or go through a specific vet that will receive your pet in Hawaii directly from the airline. The vet reviews your paper work ahead of time including two titer tests 6 months apart. Both places give your pet a quick vet check, to make sure they are ok with no obvious signs of problems. Travelling with a pet is a lot of work, but it is worth it. Our cut off is 3-4 weeks away and he comes.

[@TheOKellys]

Jeez! Is the EU as fanatical as England? I wish that there was a global Pet Passport like they have for EU countries and territories. Would make this whole thing easier. On Hawaii though, we were under the impression you could do a home-quarantine that would then shorten the wait once you got there, but that was maybe a few years ago. Thanks for the info.

[@msears101]

@@TheOKellys Nick O'Kelly EU is easier. The UK and Hawaii are all about keeping the island rabies Free. In Hawaii, you can do quick release if you do the titer tests ahead of time at their prescribed intervals. I believe it is 6 months in advance, and 4 months apart. Not sure on the timing. There may be a self quarantine on the boat. Love the videos.

[@emilymalene4146]

When I immigrated to England from the US I flew into Amsterdam with my little dog and then took a ferry to England. It was easy, no one really checked my paperwork, and my dog flew in the cabin with me.

[@Remops]

Love these videos. Well done O'Kelly's!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks so much!

[@Remops]

@@TheOKellys have you guys considered a video on different cruising cats that offer the viewers your take on speed vs comfort? I personally would love your take on different boats on this subject.

[@___Tom]

great video! Thanks for that super useful information!

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you Manfred. Trying to be personal but also useful.

[@nextadventureahead3409]

Great video! We are currently boat shopping and would like a sailboat or cat but we are leaning towards a trawler only because it might be easier with our 2 dogs. One is 60 lbs and the other 45 lbs. I am extremely nervous about taking our 2 fur babies on this adventure, but if they don’t go we don’t go. Thanks for taking my nervousness down a few notches.

[@TheOKellys]

Hey how cool for you! I'd like to get a mid-30s trawler one day. Our friends have a Grand Banks 46 and it is really nice. If given the choice with dogs on board I would choose a cat just because they are so wide and stable, but you can buy one heck of a trawler for what a decent sized cat goes for....so...it's all a compromise. I would also say that it depends on where you want to cruise. Congrats on the decision to go. Keep in touch about what you choose! I'll subscribe to make sure I hear about it. Nick

[@ceeceety2320]

This is such great info! Thanks for the efforts of putting this out here!

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Tim! Happy to do it!

[@svrojax]

💕you guys! Thanks for all the great info on cruising with a pup.

[@TheOKellys]

Wow, right on Jackie! Thank you! We love you too!

[@gr8jpn]

Great Video! Thank you for all the info

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Steve!

[@matthewmitchell5617]

Thank you for sharing this!

[@TheOKellys]

No problem. Nick

[@toddabrahamsson1797]

I think your videos are great! One thing that might help you and your viewers keep track of the different shows would be to number each episode. Please keep up the good work ! O one item for the show ..... routine maintenance of the systems, engine, seacocks, paddle wheel, etc. the engine raw water pumps ? Explain if you took a diesel course ? Do you know how to bleed a diesel, how did you learn this.

[@TheOKellys]

Huh, interesting. But I am bad with numbers. Maybe Megan can count better. We will see. Yes, I know the routine diesel engine stuff. Manuals are nice to have. Basically though, diesels (normally aspirated) are pretty simple: clean fuel and a good starter and you are in business. The rest of it is preventable (impellers, zincs, heat exchangers), or easily observable, like oil leaks.

[@dahak972]

Another great video! Thanks!

[@TheOKellys]

thank you

[@christmasszn2151]

Appreciate this video

[@hthring]

"and thats the sugar scoop" :)

[@TheOKellys]

badump bump... I'm going to steal that. :)

[@meganokelly]

lol, can't believe I didn't think of that!

[@lydiaajohnson]

Depending on where you’re cruising, it may or may not matter if you have pet paperwork. If you sail to New Zealand, they will be strict and meticulous about everything. Know in advance what their expectations are.

[@davidspensberger7862]

i bet the warm weather helps Sugars arthritis sweet dog

[@TheOKellys]

I think you're right David. The water is 79 degrees and a good swim every other day or so keeps her moving.

[@LeoTisha]

Thank you for this video. Awesome information! 🐾💕❤️👍🤘🙌

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you!

[@stevecox9714]

You guys need a comment section for feedback or ideas for the podcast....

[@TheOKellys]

Yeh we gotta figure that one out. Comment here for now. We could keep comments open. We just want to keep the podcast out of the utube/facebk world

[@meganokelly]

Good idea Steve, I just added a comment box on our link where you sign up for the secret podcast or people can leave a comment on the contact us page on sailclarity.com.

[@johnnaguzman4386]

Amazing info! Love sugar! I have sugar bear! Awesome video!

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you she was very special.

[@elisabethdaugerotbuysellin9284]

I would consider cbd or THC oil for her arthritis. It had worked wonders for my pups 15 and 16 yrs. I use a little THC with peanut butter and they love it. From one dog lover to another.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks. Yes, Sugar was on CBD as well. She left us in January. We miss her every day.

[@elisabethdaugerotbuysellin9284]

@@TheOKellys Oh I am so sorry to hear that. It is the most difficult thing to deal with. Good vibes being sent your way. I'm a former Portlander, so have enjoyed watching you alls adventures. We are thinking of selling everything and doing the same.

[@arvydaszinkevicius830]

Do not try to delete this video, ever! Even think about!!! Thanks from me, and Mėta (picture on my Profile).

[@TheOKellys]

You got it! What a good lookin puppy!

[@X99Zero]

Just a thought, my 0.01 cents. A bit of branding for the channel, Sailing "something something". Visitors will know right of the bat what the channel is about. Love the content.

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks for that. Still trying to figure out what we are about, and will put the intro together soon after. But agree completely. Thanks.

[@williamstorm7929]

I disagree. So many of those sailing vloggers are wankers using mostly the same formula. This channel is much better

[@X99Zero]

@@williamstorm7929 Completely missed the point. They are on the way to become mediapreneurs so why not build a brand.

[@redneckyachtclub8836]

Great video

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you.

[@clayfarnet970]

Dog, no...I raised four kids. But since I don't have a dog I keep another security tool onboard. When entering a new anchorage I always loop my real imitation 10 foot boa constrictor around my neck. Trust me it's noticeable. I like to walk him around the deck when I spot locals selling veggies or...I pretend to wrestle it below deck before they get too close...for their protection. Unfortunately, most of the time they don't stop...so, it's also a great weight reduction plan. :) Rule 24. Everything on board must have multiple uses. 😜

[@TheOKellys]

lol....again! I can picture this perfectly. No one is going to mess with a guy carrying a fake snake... lol

[@rnunezc.4575]

Hope cosmopolitan Sugar goes fore when "she got to go" with lifevest, iperb, and clipping...especially coming back on weather decks on short chop....:)...she earned her salty first mate papers...how about a captains hat for her....abrazo to you all t care saludos

[@agc812]

Thanks very much for this information. I plan to cruise with the pooch shown in my profile pic. Having just attended the Annapolis sailboat show, I found myself looking for boat features that might help or hinder cruising with a dog. Any recommendations? The high bulwarks, solid lifelines, and shallow stairs of the Moody DS models seemed like they’d be a benefit to both the dog and his agility-challenged owner.

[@TheOKellys]

Sugar’s aging was one of the first things that made us consider a catamaran. She got to where she couldn’t move on the last boat when underway. Monohulls are a challenge. Stairs become pretty much impassable on the ocean. So if that is your plan, maybe consider where that good looking pooch of yours can hang in the cockpit underway. Otherwise....carpet is going to help a lot with stability for your dog. We put in fitted carpet and replace it every year instead of worrying about keeping it nice. We started with AstroTurf in the monohull, but she got the idea right away and just went to the bathroom on deck. We kept a bucket handy.

[@Themarriedbachelor]

Great video just one thing. I find your videos informative but I think you might have told a little lie when you said sugar is good protection. I have been around dogs my hole life and one look at sugar and I can tell a friendly pat on the head and a firm scratch on her itchy spot and she would be glad to show me where you keep her treats. I have 2 long hair dachshunds who act tuff but give them some kibble and scratch their itchy spot, they will throw me right under the bus. And that’s why I don’t leave them in charge. Thanks again for the video and sugar.

[@TheOKellys]

Lol. Sugar has been gone a while now, but I think you’d have been unhappily surprised if you tried that with us not around. Sug had a track record.

[@Themarriedbachelor]

I’m sorry to hear about sugar 😢. I knew I was watching an older video, I was curious about having dogs on the boat and especially the bathroom issue and her using the front of the boat was great 👍. I was thinking about the artificial grass and you talked about that too. I like your videos, they are interesting and informative. I find myself living vicariously through your videos. Maybe one day I’ll get out there myself 😃 Cheers and happy sailing.

[@cliffordbradford8910]

Also you're not going to be able to take your dog everywhere like you can in the US. In the US a lot of people will want to walk up to your dog to pet it, in the Caribbean you will get the opposite reaction. People have dogs but they're not socialized the same way i.e. as inside dogs, "part of the family etc". Don't expect to take your dog to a patio restaurant and definitely not into buildings or public transport. You'll definitely want to search around for some info abut particular countries before you go. The rules are there for a good reason, most islands (and hey, most of the places you want to go are islands) don't natively have a lot of animal diseases so one sick animal can wreak havoc. In Jamaica a few years (late 80s) ago some racehorses brought in equine influenza and hundreds of local horses died. Most Caribbean islands are free of rabies and just about all tick borne diseases. Also most Caribbean islands don't have fleas so the rules are there for a reason so you should at least make an effort and don't show trying to be the bossy American. Get all the shots for your pet. Also you'll want to search up on local disease risks (more likely for South and Central America) or even call a local vet before you go. If you animal gets a cut or wound make sure to treat it with "screw worm spray" or wound powder because if they get into a cut they can be painful for your pet.

[@TheOKellys]

Good points Clifford. Didn't know about the horses. That's sad. We have found the French and Dutch are pretty mellow with having dogs in public areas, patios, etc., but we haven't been everywhere. Agree with you about islanders in general though...dogs aren't usually part of the family in the same way. We have friends who adopted street dogs and brought them back to the States. Rehab took months. Thanks for the note. Nick

[@whyme8068]

Such a great video! This sort of stuff gets confusing at times. So if you go to a country and your dog doesn't meet the requirements, do you always have the choice, no matter the country, of just leaving your dog on the boat for the duration of your visit?

[@TheOKellys]

It is confusing. It depends on the country I think. They can tell you to leave as well. We haven't experienced that however as we have gone through all the hoops.

[@Shepherdservices317]

I need to know how you deal with the heat with the dog. Also what about too much salt water intake?

[@joahyoga1995]

I happy to know that you two are familiar with the Jedi Mind Trick :)

[@TheOKellys]

Watch movies, we do, but also believe, we do... :)

[@travelingtimothy]

Great vid

[@TheOKellys]

Thank you.

[@DatRickyDude]

I live in the Caribbean. It's paradise. Easiest place to live lol

[@TheOKellys]

It is man. You are lucky! Subscribed so I could keep tabs on this tea you are making.

[@DatRickyDude]

@@TheOKellys LOOL! Now i feel pressured to make an update video

[@billvandenouden7302]

You guys seem very knowledgeable about the Caribbean's do you have any solutions for dealing with the noseeums a natural sprays or anything because those drive me nuts Vegas Bill piece

[@TheOKellys]

Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus is the only thing that works for me. It is a sunscreen/bug repellent. I don't think it is very natural though. Islanders say citronella in the window screens but they must really like to bite me because that doesn't work at all.

[@petertironejr5031]

That was a good educational video thanks I been struggling with this for sometime I want to go sailing but havent because My best friend jojo my pecadot datsun mixed picanese how was sugar with sea sickness

[@TheOKellys]

she never got seasick. Glad you liked the vid. Be well.

[@8028rsj]

Interesting video guys. I see you left out Trinidad and Tobago completely but as I live here I can tell you what category to put it under: IMPOSSIBLE. You probably could do it but considering everything else I know it would mean an arm and a leg

[@TheOKellys]

Yeh, we heard. We get it and understand the reasoning... it's just too bad. We really wanted to come through there.

[@simonmorecroft9732]

Do you fly Sugar to the boat or do you sail back to the States ? Flights with dogs seem to be a major issue these days..

[@TheOKellys]

Not anymore. She has flown across a couple times, but not in a couple years. She is too old. We drive x-country or stay on the boat. Flying commercially with a dog or without is something we try to minimize. Thanks for the note Simon.

[@jenniferadams8577]

Who’s doing the deep breathing in the background?

[@TheOKellys]

We joke we've got our own Darth Vader on board. That would be the Dog of Many Sounds...Sugar! Lol

[@cscshop6012]

Australia is very difficult please check very carefully before you go

[@TheOKellys]

It's virtually impossible. :(

[@coisalinda2424]

Nice 👍🏽

[@rodrigocaballero7]

what do you think about cats in a boat? Do they get used easily to the boat life?

[@TheOKellys]

We had two on our first big cruiser. They hated it. We had to give them to a good friend.

[@ryanshields6757]

Hey I love your videos! I have a question tho, is it legal for me to just buy my first sailboat and literally sail around the US without a boating license?

[@TheOKellys]

Yes no license is required.

[@briantambling3918]

What about pets that dont leave the boat..cats...a squirrel?

[@SavorTheJourneyDave]

🐕🐶 When Sugar goes off to college.... 😢😭😥

[@ajadams88]

In your experience is the catamaran or monohull easier on or more fun for Sugar (or other dogs you've met)?

[@TheOKellys]

Aaron, without a doubt the cat is easier for Sugar, especially now that she is elderly. She did fine on our last monohull in most conditions, so it cannot be said that she couldn't tolerate it, but especially when it was rough out, she really had to wedge herself in place.

[@mike86mike]

Is the whole paperwork drama the same for cats or it that less difficult?

[@TheOKellys]

Don't know. I doubt it, but not sure.

[@clayfarnet970]

Btw, I joined your secret podcast. Don't worry...I won't tell a sole. Oh, if you sell my info, I'll hunt you down to spend a week on your boat.

[@TheOKellys]

Beware, we keep a fake boa on board.

[@charlesmerritt122]

Why not Honduras

[@TheOKellys]

You are talking Utila and Roatan? Haven't been there and to be honest we just forgot. We think it is probably fairly easy as most of the immigration stuff is simple there. Maybe someone on here can comment?

[@andersjakobsen9906]

Hi. and thanks for this dog update. I`m a dog person, so certeinly understand what you talk about. In Norway we have a passport to our dog. Not if you just stay in Norway, but if you tend to go abroad. You sure had a BIG stack of paper for here. I only has this passport with the stamps. All from rabies to worms and and and. But my question realy are: Do you bring your dog papers when you check in or....just leave the dog on the boat and hope for the best?? What is worst case scenario?? A ticket? Cant bring the dog? Have to leave the port/contry? Can they put my dog in quarantine?? Thats what they do in Norway, if you try to bring a animal in whitout the right permit.- Do to Rabies. Fair winds ,,,,,,,,/),,,,,,,,,,

[@TheOKellys]

You in Norway can get a Pet Passport, which makes it much much easier for you to travel to EU countries and territories without hassles. What is the worst that can happen? Quarantine and threats of euthanasia. If you simply didn't get all the right paperwork, I think that any reasonable official is going to allow you to simply leave....which wouldn't be good if you were facing bad weather. However, they could certainly seize your pet which would be terrible. It is going to depend on the country and the official, making for a lot of "gray area." BTW, my flight instructor was Norwegian. He had the best disposition. Dealing with the officials in a calm, polite, and subservient manner is always going to help.

[@andersjakobsen9906]

Thanks for a fast respond@@TheOKellys And lerning me a new word `euthanasia` (not my favorit new word, but .....) Yes, I have a pet passport, and we travel a lot to ex Spain. I hope the strict ruels in Norway my healp me. England is ok. France is ok. Its the US, and the unknown I`m afraid of. I also have a ppl by the way. Hope I have the same carisma as your instructor ;-)

[@TheOKellys]

Morten Bjerkvik taught me through ppl and instrument before he went off to fly turbines. His disposition was what made him so good. Just essential information, delivered at the appropriate time. It is critical. I am not sure of the rules about bringing a dog to the US, but I would assume that since it is a rabies country, the rules will be more relaxed. I think the way the EU handles pet passports should be the world standard.

[@andersjakobsen9906]

The name is some kind of familiar, but I dont know him. Yes, the pet pass. is and function great.

[@davidwheeler5642]

there are some natural supplements to help the pets with arthritis, plus i think some cannabis companies will make great progress in treating arthritis, if I run across something great, I will let you know

[@TheOKellys]

Yeh my brother is having great success with that stuff with his grate dane. Also very calming. Please do send any info along that you come across. Thanks, Nick

[@Shepherdservices317]

I'll get what I cam but I'm sure no ones going to check on my dog lol

[@patrickcoleman3]

Australia is probably the worst for animal quarantine , Just ask Johnny Depp cheers mate. Oh you can say its so windy it will blow a dog off a chain.

[@TheOKellys]

Yeh that's what we heard. We were anchored off Johnny Depp's island this season. There is a note on the beach that says, "This is not Disney, You are Not Welcome." Lol. Thanks for the note mate.

[@donjohnston3776]

Sugar looks fatigued with heart failure, old age or whatever. That's life and you will be empty nesters which will be different for sure. Take some time to see if freedom from pet ownership is the best fit for you two. All the best.

[@TheOKellys]

life indeed. Thanks Don.

[@kateadkins7087]

Great video again!! A good resource is www.pettravel.com/index.cfm - a great place to start your inquiries for each destination....

[@TheOKellys]

Thanks Kate, if you have any others that you come across we will add it in the description. Appreciate the positive feedback! Nick

[@GrantGrove]

Cayman doesn't like cruiser dogs.