International Dog Day: Why Truck Drivers Should Ride with Their Pets

Posted on August 26. 2019

By: ClassADrivers.com

Dogs are there to alert, comfort, and otherwise protect us in scary situations. They are man’s best friend for a reason. And because of their loyalty and companionship, we celebrate dogs every August the 26th on International Dog Day. 

Here at Class A Drivers, we want to honor the occasion by exploring the benefits of bringing your furry friend along for the ride.

Benefits of Driving with Your Dog

One of the key challenges as an over-the-road or long-haul truck driver is isolation. Long hours in the cab can be psychologically difficult.

And your dog probably doesn’t like being left with friends or family either. They want to be with you! Here are the key benefits to bringing them along for the ride:

  • Companionship. Dogs are always happy to see you, eager for pets, and excited about being included in whatever you’re doing at the time. This sheer joy can help you stay optimistic, prevent boredom, and make you feel a bit less alone out on the road.
  • New People. Speaking of feeling isolated,having a dog with you is a great ice breaker at truck stops. We know that you’re not in this career to make friends, but starting a conversation during your off-duty time can help pass the time. Plus, random interactions with strangers is a great mood booster. Even if it’s just to make small talk.
  • Protection. Although it may take a bit of training, dogs are wonderful at alerting you to potential danger. A barking dog in the cabin can scare off anyone that creeps up on your cabin at night. And while Class A Drivers always promotes safe parking, having a dog is an extra level of security in case you have to park in an unlit area one night.
  • Exercise. Truck drivers are at risk of health issues due to a sedentary lifestyle and long periods of inactivity. Yes, your furry friend may need to use the bathroom more often than you do, and you may lose a few minutes by taking them on walks. But there is an upside to the extra stops. Getting outside, stretching your legs, and walking around will pay off in the long run with a long-lasting and healthy career.

Truckers that already have a dog should consider bringing them along, if it fits the dogs needs and personality.

And if you don’t have a dog but are thinking of getting one, then please rescue. There are many great dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments that need homes. Sites like Petfinder can help you find the perfect dog for you.

Trucking Companies That Allow Dogs

As awesome as dogs are, there are some companies out there that do not allow pets to tag along for the ride.

Here’s a list of some of the great trucking companies that do:

  • Butler Transport
  • CalArk
  • Covenant Transport
  • Crete Carriers
  • Giltner, Inc.
  • H & R Transport
  • Heyl Truck Lines
  • Hogan Transport
  • Interstate Distributor
  • J.B. Hunt
  • Jim Palmer Trucking
  • J.S. Helwig & Sons
  • Knight Transportation
  • LTI Trucking Services
  • May Trucking Company
  • Melton Truck Lines
  • Miller Truck Lines
  • Navajo Express
  • National Carriers
  • Ozark Motor Lines
  • P & S Transportation
  • PAM Transport
  • Paper Transport, Inc.
  • Paschall Truck Lines
  • Prime
  • Quest Global
  • RBX, Inc.
  • R.E. Garrison
  • Roehl Transport
  • Shaffer Trucking
  • Star Transportation
  • Stevens Transport
  • Trans AM Trucking