Truck drivers who spend extended periods of time on the road can get lonely. There are books and music, but there is nothing like a companion who is always there for you.  That’s why many drivers and owner-operators bring their pets on board for the ride. If you are a driver who wants to start trucking with pets, here are some things you need to know.

Let your pets out of the vehicle regularly

Everyone needs fresh air; it is vital to sustain all living beings. Your pets are no exception. Being cooped up in a tight space for hours on end will make them more susceptible to sickness. Make sure you plan your stops so that your pet gets a chance to go outside - especially dogs whose natural need is to run, chase things and play in the outdoors. For us in Canada, during the winter, we might not like the idea of going outside for a walk. Nonetheless, taking your pet outside for a walk is a perfect way to get your daily dose of fresh air and clear your mind. If your pet is a shorter-haired breed, a senior or has a medical condition, they might need winter outerwear for extra warmth.

Be aware of your trucking company’s pet policy

At Erb Transport, we go above and beyond to accommodate our drivers and make sure they have the best work environment as possible. That is why we permit drivers to take their pets on the road with them under certain conditions. For the safety and well-being of the pet, we only allow animals that weigh 30 pounds or less. Thanks to this policy, we have received many nice messages from our truckers who ride with their pets, and how it has made their day more interesting and enjoyable. [caption id="attachment_1238" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Buddy - employee of the month as sent by one of our drivers[/caption]

Clean up after your pets

In accordance with company policies, drivers should also be mindful to clean up after their pets. Not only is it a requirement, it is also better for your pets and yourself to be in clean and comfortable surroundings.

Stay prepared on the road

It is always a good idea to be prepared. Remember to have a leash with you to take your dogs on walks at truck stops. There is usually busy traffic at those stops so a leash will ensure that your dog is safe and close to you at all times. Additionally, you should make sure you stock up enough food and treats to last your animal the whole trip. Toys and chews are also useful to keep them occupied. However, if you run out, there are always convenient truck stops around for you to get extra supply. Last but not least,pack some blankets in case they get cold.

Pets keep truck drivers happy and healthy

Studies have shown that having a pet companion helps lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and contribute to better overall cardiovascular health. Moreover, pets, especially dogs, keep you active and help you lose weight. Research has found that daily dog walks can result in weight loss as they force you to engage in physical activity for 20-30 minutes at a time, which is perfect exercise for truck stops. Having pets is not only beneficial to your physical health; it also reduces stress and increase serotonin and dopamine levels. Finally, according to a study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, pet-owners who are 65 and over reported fewer doctor visits than those who did not own pets.   Do you ride with your pet? Let us know in the comments!