Truck driving can be a lonely venture if you aren’t prepared to spend hours with yourself. The radio, CB or audiotapes are great sources of entertainment. With CB radio you can even engage in some conversation from time to time but have you ever thought of bringing a pet along for the ride?
Company Policies
Before you decide to add a pet to your truck driving adventure make sure your company’s policy allows for you to bring a pet into the truck. As an Owner Operators and Lease Purchasers, the truck is your property but double check to see if there are any safety guidelines or issues with having an animal on board with you. You might have to put down a pet deposit if you are in a lease to own program or are using a company truck.
The Basic Necessities
Many drivers decide to take a dog along as a companion. Some also travel with cats and we have seen a pet fish and some small reptiles but most of our suggestions will be based around taking care of a furry friend because they require the most maintenance.
- A small vacuum. Your dog will most likely shed a little especially if you want to be able to pick any type of dog. We would recommend a breed that doesn’t shed or shedding is minimal to make the maintenance a little easier.
- A leash. No matter what, you will need a leash. Most places you travel to or through will have leash laws and you don’t want to waste your time or money getting in trouble for this law. A quick tip: make sure the leash is on BEFORE you open the cab door.
- Training. It is going to take some time to train your dog to get used to riding in the cab. In the beginning it will be all about your pet and their needs. Make sure you are prepared to have frequent stops to walk and relieve your pet. If you train them properly at the start it will make traveling with your pet much easier.
- Cleaning supplies. Accidents happen and your pet will eventually get dirty. You’re going to need to be able to clean up accidents in the cab and to clean your pet while outside of the cab. We recommend taking a 1-2 gallon pump-up garden sprayer. Also you can pre-mix a soapy solution in another spray bottle for a quick fix.
- Food and water. Keep in mind your pet will need to eat and drink just as much if not more than you do. It’s much easier to justify in your mind to make it those last miles before stopping but that is very hard to convey to a pet. Make sure to have some food, water and a chew toy available if you need to push that last leg of your run.
It can be a lot of fun but also a lot of work to bring a pet along for the trip. Remember this is a long-term relationship and you will have to go through the early struggles of teaching and training your pet for life on the road. Once you make it through the basics, your pet will be your best friend and a wonderful companion to travel with.
We hope you enjoyed our tips about traveling with a pet companion. Are you an Owner Operators and Lease Purchasers looking to be home every night? Paramount Freight Systems is looking for dedicated Owner Operators and Lease Purchasers to join our ranks. We have line haul lanes and regional routes available. Contact us today to own your own route to success. Want to share a picture of your pet? Post a picture to our social media channels.
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