Last Updated on June 2, 2023 by Dogs Vets
Man Builds a Custom Kayak to Share Aquatic Adventures with His Two Dogs”
Discovering David Bahnson’s ingenious customized kayak that let him share his love for the water with his two Golden Retrievers.
Few bonds are as profound as the one shared between a pet and its owner. Our pets become our companions, friends, and integral parts of our daily lives.
David Bahnson, a retired orthopedic surgeon hailing from the serene state of Vermont, is no exception to this. Bahnson, an avid kayaker and devoted dog parent, combined these two passions in a most innovative way.
Living the Dream – Pets, Paddles, and Passions
When Bahnson wanted to share his love of kayaking with his two Golden Retrievers, he did not settle for leaving them on the shore.
Instead, he embarked on a creative journey to transform a regular kayak into a specialized pet-friendly vessel.
It started in 2015 when he modified the baggage opening of a kayak into a comfortable, dog-shaped hole. This modification provided enough room for his first dog, Susie, while also featuring a removable ring to prevent water splashing in.
In an interview with Huffington Post UK, Bahnson shared, “Our dogs have always loved to travel with us in cars, in my airplane, in boats. Building a way for them to kayak with us just seemed like a logical choice, and the boats are fun to build anyway.”
When Bahnson welcomed a second dog, Ginger, he further customized the kayak by adding another doggie hole. He proudly described his creation to The Dodo as a “triple kayak.”
Paddling with Pooches
Bahnson’s dog-friendly kayak wasn’t merely a tool; it was an emblem of love and companionship. It allowed him to indulge in his favorite hobby while keeping his loyal dogs by his side.
His canine companions seemed to relish this unique experience as much as he did. “They get excited when we’d pull the kayaks out and see that we were going. They are trained to get in the kayak themselves on command. They sit down, and off we go,” he said.
Passing on the Paddle
The unfortunate passing of Susie and Ginger left a void, but their memory lives on through the joy they brought and the innovative doggie kayak that once brought them on numerous adventures. B
ahnson’s unique invention now serves the next generation of his canine family.
“My wife and her friends still use the kayaks, and she takes our newest golden, Piper, along with her,”
In reflecting on his journey, Bahnson expressed, “I love my dogs. I love training them, the companionship. We’ve gone miles and miles of paddling with our dogs. They just really enjoy going places.”
David Bahnson’s story is not just about a man and his dogs, nor just about a love for kayaking. It’s about finding innovative ways to share what you love with who you love.
It’s about a legacy of love, companionship, and ingenuity that continues to make waves.
Source: Wildlifeamazing
