Bend, OR - Dogs of all sizes and shapes are instinctive swimmers and most canines master the doggie paddle at an early age. Today, Ruff Wear, the leading producer of high performance dog gear, unveils two new canine lifejackets and a water-resistant dog bed for our four-legged companions. The Big Eddy Float Coat™, Portage Float Coat™ and Flophouse™ Foam Pad are now available through specialty pet and outdoor retailers as well as through www.ruffwear.com.

According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturer’s Association (SGMA), more Americans now paddle (kayak, canoe, or raft) than play soccer. In fact, paddle sports grew 10.3 percent from 2005 to 2006. With the growing popularity of water sport vacations, canine water safety and canine lifejackets are top of mind for water enthusiasts.

“Both the Big Eddy Float Coat and Portage Float Coat were designed with canine safety in mind. In the water, dogs need the safety of a lifejacket just like humans do, regardless of swimming ability,” said Patrick Kruse, Ruff Wear's owner and founder. “More than ever, people are bringing their canine companions along for adventures in and around the water. We recognized the need for two different canine float coats, one for calm-water activities and another for demanding rough-water conditions. Using a float coat anytime your dog is around water just makes sense.”  

New Spring/Summer 2009 Dog Gear from Ruff Wear

Big Eddy Float Coat

The ultimate in canine flotation and water safety – you and your water-loving canine companion will stay safely in the action when wearing the Ruff Wear Big Eddy Float Coat. This top-of-the-line lifejacket is ideal for active dogs who frequent the water. It is built for aggressive swimmers in rough or fast-moving water, day or night. Designed with a heavy-duty ballistic nylon shell, this float coat is super abrasion-resistant to withstand extended use. Reflective trim and contrasting colors provide enhanced visibility. The heavily reinforced assistance handle makes it easy to lift dogs out of the water. MSRP: $74.95

Portage Float Coat

The Portage Float Coat is ideal for dogs who need a high-quality flotation jacket for recreational use at an excellent value. Designed to provide safety and peace of mind in and around the water, the wide size range fits dogs of all shapes and sizes. The Portage Float Coat is great for calm water activities, or for dogs who are less buoyant and/or new to the water. In addition, the low-profile assistance handle makes it easy to lift dogs out of the water. MSRP: $49.95

Flophouse Foam Pad

The Flophouse Foam Pad is a portable, waterproof, and washable dog bed. Built for dogs on the go, the Flophouse Foam Pad is low-profile and highly portable. Ideal for travel.  MSRP: (S) $59.95, (M) $74.95, (L) $99.95

Click to read about Canine Water Safety and the importance of canine lifejackets.

Ruff Wear Contact: christyc@sundropmedia.com