Cat Tales April 2002

View from the Bridge

Richard Schatz, Commodore

This past weekend I was at the Flag Raising brunch, and as I looked around, I was impressed with the diversity we have, not only in boat sizes, but also boat manufacturers. We are, after all a Catalina Association, but we welcome sailors of all persuasion of boat. We have a Watkins, a couple of Benteaus, and even a trawler. There is something about the people in this organization though, that makes it special. They are people that will tow you if you're in trouble, take you to get gas if you run out, offer advice and give assistance if you're taking on a new project.

Diane and I noticed this right away at our first "Icebreaker." We were welcomed graciously by everyone we met. And we noticed that even during the party, some of the group were off on one of the boats trying to help the skipper get the kinks out of his "Lazy Dutchman". What we realized was that this club is the type of sailing group we wanted. It is a group with a love of sailing and a quality of friendship that you don't find everywhere. We know that it's not the organization that matters; it's the type of people that are in it. This is the reason that, even though some members may change their boats, they still want to stay with CCYC.

We followed Pete and Karen Denholm's odyssey as if they were family and they came back to share their pictures and adventures with us. Thanks to you both for a great opportunity to join you vicariously on your trip and the great presentation you gave at the Brunch.

Mike Davis is always there to make sure that we are all fully informed of what is happening in the Club. His hi-tech presentation at the Brunch had everything but "Surround Sound". The information provided by the maps and details really put things in perspective. Thanks to you Mike, not only for this last presentation but also for the work you do throughout the year, and your guidance in getting us to the raft-ups.

Further, there are any number of people we can call on in the club for advice, and who possess a wide breadth of knowledge. We are truly fortunate to be a part of this club.

We should also keep in mind that for every size and shape of Catalina there is also a specific Fleet Association. These groups offer sailing expertise and maintenance details for your particular boat. I would like to encourage you to consider joining your Fleet as well, think of them as an extension of what you can find at CCYC. The tech sections on their websites are a terrific resource of information, and the "chats" connect you with another extended family of sailors who are friendly and most willing to help. The added benefit of the "Catalina Mainsheet" magazine is a great way to find out what other Catalina Associations around the country are doing.

There are some of us that belong to multiple groups that serve to round out our sailing experience. This is strictly a personal choice. But, if I could paraphrase what Bill Wesley said to me at the Brunch:

"It's all about the sailing…it's all about the people."

Fair Winds

Icebreaker
April 27-28th
Quiet Waters Park
Harness Creek

Mike and Bev Davis, Ayewash

The Icebreaker will be on Saturday April 27th at Quiet Waters Park, on Harness Creek, off the South River. We will follow Saturday's events by watching the start of the Volvo Ocean Race on Sunday, April 28th.

To get to Quiet Waters Park by land, take Exit 22 (Route 665/Aris T. Allen Blvd) from US-50 in Annapolis. Stay on Rt. 665 as it merges with Forest Drive for 2 miles. Turn right at the Exxon Station onto Hillsmere Drive. The park entrance is 100 yards on the right hand side. Inside the park, stay on the road until past the White Oak Pavilion and look for parking lot "I" and the Dogwood Pavilion. Park in lot "I" and join everyone at the Dogwood Pavilion.

To get to Quiet Waters Park by sea, head for the South River. Continue up the river for about 2 ½ miles and just short of Red 10, you'll see the entrance to Harness Creek on the north shore. After you enter the creek, you'll see Quiet Waters Park to starboard. Look for Ayewash anchored near the canoe and kayak pier and join the raft-up.

As you approach Harness Creek, hail us on VHF (Ch 72) or cell phone (703.298.4720) and we'll be standing by to assist you joining the raft-up. We will go ashore at 3:00 but you can still hail or call me if you arrive after that. We've made special arrangements with the folks at the boat rental dock to tie up a dinghy. We won't abuse the privilege, so we will use dinghies to ferry folks and try to keep only one dinghy at a time at the dock.

Festivities kick off at 3:00 PM with cocktails and munchies, followed by a potluck dinner at 5:30 PM. The Club will provide charcoal for grilling and drinks. Those attending should bring a hors d'oeuvre and potluck dish for all to share.

The park is open from 7:00 AM to dusk and we have the pavilion all day, so you can use it if you want to enjoy the park before the Icebreaker starts.

On Sunday, we plan to leave the raft-up and proceed out to the Bay to watch the start of Leg 7 of the Volvo Ocean Race as the boats depart for La Rochelle, France. The start of the race is at 1:00 PM at the Bay Bridge, so we will have plenty of time to get into position in the vicinity of the St Thomas Lighthouse.

It should be lots of fun for the start of the season. Of course, it will be even more fun if you're there. Hope you can make it!

Sailing Pets

Jennifer Davis, Ayewash

Pets onboard can be treated exactly as they would be on land. If your pet is a first timer, it may take them some time to acquire their 'sea legs'. After which, they will want to roam and enjoy the cruise as much as you. The following suggestions are a few key tips to make the best of your pet's sailing. I could probably write a book on this subject, but hopefully this article will aid you. If you want to find out more, please let me know.

Travel bag: Most animals enjoy the adventure of traveling. With a little planning, he/she will make an excellent sailing companion. Have a list made up of items to bring for your pet aboard. This will allow him/her to feel more at ease and occupied. Some items I make sure I have for my Simba are dog food (pre-measured in zip lock bags), chew toys, treats, brush (hair & teeth), potty bags, life preserver, and bowls (food & water). Always remember any medication for your pet.

Rough seas: Yes, pets do get seasick, just like humans. Unlike humans, however, they seem to recover after a few hours. Having no watches to stand, they just wedge themselves into their personal spots, which can be a book shelf, behind the settee cushions, in a knitting bag, or in your berth until the rough weather is over. Still, if the sea is too rough or your pet cannot relieve him/herself of the feeling, there is hope. Here are a couple suggestions to aid your pet sheering off seasickness. Keep some solid food in their stomach at all times. Dry dog food, crackers, or bread make good choices. If the engine is running, have your pet stay on deck in fresh air, away from exhaust fumes. A marvelous resource is your veterinarian. Animals can be given medication that can combat seasickness. Ask your vet for a pet medical kit, this includes either over-the-counter medication or prescription medication.

Potty Breaks: This topic is normally the key to deciding whether or not a pet becomes a part of your crew. When you are planning the itinerary think about your destinations and whether or not you need to have access to public land. (Key word ... public ... through experience with a gun owning landowner!) Many cruisers have successfully trained their pet to do their duty on board. Most birds have cages or can be trained to use a litter box.

Cats have their litter boxes, you can keep it in the head or cockpit. If you decide to clean the boxes while underway, keep in mind the laws about dumping overboard into the water. Dogs are usually taken ashore by dinghy each morning and evening. Make sure you pick up after your pet and dispose of waste properly. Newspaper bags are reliable to hold together and are cheaper than buying poop bags at the pet store. There are several training techniques, but regardless of the method you choose, the trick is to train your animal to go on board. Some dogs can wait as long as 30+ hours before relieving themselves. They just need to know it is okay. One approach is to train your pet to relieve him/herself on the floor of the head. Another is to use a square of Astroturf in the bow. The Astroturf is then dumped into the water and trailed until clean. They will be able to smell their own scent in order to use continuously. If your pet messes in an area that is displeasing, spray Bitter Apple on the cleaned area. This spray does not affect wood, fabric, or fiberglass, yet is a deterrent of repeating messes from your pet. You can buy this at a pet store.

Overboard: The idea of your pet going overboard must be considered. They can lose their center of gravity as easily as we can; however, they cannot grab hold of the lifeline. When underway, it would be best for your pet to stay below with hatches open for air or within the cockpit. At all times your pet should wear a life preserver, even when anchored. Only if you barricade him/her in the cabin should your animal be without. A baby gate is versatile and does well to block the entrance onto the deck. All research has shown that cats and dogs that have fallen overboard swam well. It is natural for them to paddle. When sailing, it will take you time to maneuver the boat to head back for your pet overboard and a life preserver will allow your pet to stay afloat in that time frame. They can and do get tired paddling, so it is vital for them to have a preserver on. Sizes and durability vary. I strongly suggest that whichever you buy that you are able to hoist your animal by its handle easily. In my opinion, the premium flotation device can be ordered through Cabela's [Deluxe Pet Floatation Device, sizes from small to x-large for $39.99]. A second recommendation would be from West Marine [Premium Pet Flotation Vest, small to x-large $59.99]. FYI, West Marine's vest material shreds easily after a season's use. One more note on the topic. It would not be advisable for your pet to be harnessed in. Through all my research from books to other sailors, harnessed animals easily get tangled around deck lines.

It is a good idea to introduce your dog to the water before shoving off. You might even practice a pet overboard drill under controlled circumstances. Train your pet to swim to a certain spot around the boat for easy and safe retrievals. Doing this will allow you to have a well-rehearsed plan in time of need. A pet should know that it should not jump off the boat until the command has been given. This is important when tying up, fueling, setting anchor, ...

Feeding: As mentioned earlier, pre-measure food for the trip. Putting a day's worth of food into a bag makes measuring out later less of a nuisance. If you have food in cans, make sure you have a can opener. Have plenty of water available, pets get dehydrated. Food and water bowls can be placed in the lid of a copy paper box (or any other type lid) so not to slid around and spill. The box works well during feeding below or atop and then you can slide the bottom of the box over it to keep bugs from invading. You can also glue bowls into place so your pet doesn't travel with them. Treats are important in helping your pet adjust. If your pet gets nervous when you start the engine or tie-up, try giving him/her treats each time so that soon the experience is not nerve racking.

Final Thoughts:

• Pets should be well trained to avoid barking in an anchorage.
• Do not allow your pets to roam on other boats.
• Have papers and identification for your pet on board. You might write your name, boat name, and a landline in permanent marker on the life preserver.
• Always check local regulations when traveling out of your local area. (Different locations have different regulations and strict penalties.)
• Some pets are prone to sunburn. Check with your vet about your breed. You may need to have sunscreen in his/her kit.
• Take pictures ... they will add priceless memories to the photo book.

Hope this helps answer some of those questions or aids in making sailing with your pet more enjoyable. I look forward to hearing about your successes! Thank you.

2002 Cruise/Raft-up Schedule

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