We all cherish the moments spent with our beloved pets, especially when we can share our favorite activities with them. And one man took this to heart when he wanted to enjoy the water with his two Golden Retrievers. With a stroke of ingenuity, he built a custom kayak that could accommodate his loyal canine companions.
Going the Extra Mile for His Dogs
David Bahnson, a retired orthopedic surgeon from Vermont, had two passions in life: traveling with his dogs and kayaking. In 2015, he came up with a brilliant idea to combine the two. He constructed a kayak with a special modification to accommodate his dogs.
A Kayak Designed for Dogs
David customized the baggage opening of the kayak, creating a “dog-shaped hole” that provided just enough space for his dog, Susie. To ensure their comfort and safety, he also added a removable ring to prevent water from splashing in.
“Our dogs have always loved traveling with us in cars, my airplane, and boats,” David shared with Huffington Post UK. “Building a way for them to kayak with us just seemed like a logical choice, and the boats are fun to build anyway.”
When David welcomed a new addition to the family, Ginger, he made additional modifications to accommodate both dogs. The kayak became like a triple vessel, giving each dog their own spot. As a result, David could pursue his favorite hobby with his loyal canine companions by his side, creating unforgettable memories on the water.
Unforgettable Experiences
David’s dogs thrived on the kayak adventures. They would eagerly anticipate the outings, excitedly sitting in the kayak on command. “They seem to love it,” David joyfully expressed. “When we’d pull the kayaks out, they would get excited knowing we were about to have a great time.”
Although Susie and Ginger have since passed away, the cherished memories created on those kayak rides will forever be in David’s heart. He continues to honor their legacy by passing on his special doggie kayak to his wife and her friends. His wife now takes their newest golden retriever, Piper, on kayaking adventures.
“I love my dogs,” David fondly stated. “I love training them, the companionship, and exploring new places together.” Throughout the years, they have paddled countless miles, creating lasting bond and happiness.
A Heartwarming Idea
What an incredible idea! It’s evident that these dogs truly relished their time kayaking with their owner on the water. Such heartwarming stories remind us of the joy and happiness our pets bring to our lives. Share this adorable story and spread the love!
