Owning a pet can bring both psychological and physiological health benefits for pet owners. Unfortunately, if you're an OTR driver who hasn't found the right pet friendly trucking companies to drive for, you may have to leave your furry friend behind for weeks at a time. This separation can be tough on both you and your animal pal.
Truckers who bring their pets on the road with them love it. Barry Starr, a longtime trucker, said of his dog, "He is great company; he keeps me laughing a lot. He is also a great source of exercise [as] walking him and playing with him will definitely keep me active. But the number one thing is he's an awesome alarm system."
If you're a pet owner looking for a new truck driving job, why not focus your search on trucking companies that allow you to bring your pets along? Each carrier's pet policy may differ, so you must inquire about your company's requirements in advance.
Review the Trucking Company's Pet Policy
Of course, just because they’re pet friendly, that doesn’t mean anything goes. Most companies have certain rules in place to protect their trucks, ensure safety, reduce liability, and generally make sure that the driver is responsible for their pet. Drivers need to familiarize themselves with the specific requirements of each company they are considering.
One of the most common restrictions is that pets can only be a dog or cat, and under a stated weight limit. Trucking jobs are no place for exotic pets that may require certain climates to survive, let alone live comfortably, and there’s no assurance that your pet iguana will be okay if you’re driving to the Dakotas in the winter. The weight requirement is not only because it can be difficult to get an animal into the cab, but also because a restless pet on long truck driving jobs can get excited and accidentally force you to turn the wheel in a way that lighter animals won’t be able to.
Pet friendly trucking companies may also require you to provide proof of your pet's vaccinations and pay a deposit for your animal when you plan to take them with you. This deposit covers any damage to the cab during routes when the pet is present. In some cases, they may also require cats to be declawed or restrict the privilege of having a pet on the road with you for CDL jobs to lease operators only.
Pet Friendly Trucking Companies
CDLjobs.com has plenty of jobs listed with companies that will let you bring your pet along. If the carrier has provided information to us about their pet policy, this information is found on each carrier’s company profile in the “General” section. We understand that in some cases, animals may be the only family a trucker has, so we're happy to help you find pet-friendly trucking companies to keep working without having to give up your furry companions. Here are a few examples.
Dedicated Transportation Systems
Dedicated Transportation Systems (DTS) drivers are guaranteed to get home on weekends with regional truck jobs or daily on local routes and your pet rides free! Earn competitive pay as a DTS truck driver!
Market Express
Based in the scenic Pacific Northwest, Market Express has local and over-the-road (OTR) trucking job opportunities for drivers and their beloved pets. We're looking for CDL-A company drivers and Owner Operators to run the Western 11 states and Rocky Mountain region. Become a part of Market Express and take advantage of these fulfilling career opportunities!
National Carriers
National Carriers provides CDL job opportunities for both company drivers and Owner Operators, as well as a lease purchase program designed to enhance your trucking career. With options available for everyone, they truly live up to their reputation as the Elite Fleet. Bring your family and pets along to make your journeys more enjoyable.
Roehl Transport
Roehl Transport is a pet-friendly trucking company that allows eligible drivers to travel with spayed or neutered dogs or cats in their trucks. TeamRoehl is committed to driver success and safety, and they encourage pet owners to share their companion stories to be included on their Pawsitively Roehl social media channels. Check out the pet-friendly truck driving jobs near you with Roehl Transport today.
Western Express
Western Express provides CDL-A truck drivers with competitive pay, flexible schedules, and a range of route options, all while allowing passengers and pets to accompany you. Take the opportunity today to become part of a trucking company that genuinely prioritizes your needs.
Get Things In Order Before You Leave Home
Once you have landed a driving job with a pet-friendly trucking company, there are a few additional things to consider before you and your pet begin your journey.
1. Allow your pet to become familiar with the new sights and smells inside the cab to ease the transition. Sit together parked before taking a short drive. You may want to repeat this routine a few times before you begin trucking with your pet.
2. Visit your veterinarian before embarking on your first trip. Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are current and that you keep a record with you on the road. Discuss the need for shots or medication that may be required for travel areas outside of your home base. Invest in a flea and tick preventative to keep those nasty things out of your truck!
Health Considerations of Trucking With Your Pet
Some of the areas you encounter over the road may not always be the best for your pet's health. There may be antifreeze or other chemical deposits on truck stop concrete that can burn your pet’s paws. When possible, it is wise to carry your pet to a grassy area to “do its business,” but ALWAYS clean up after yourselves. At rest stops, be on the lookout for dangerous chemical treatments on the lawns. Washing your pet’s paws before resuming your travels is wise.
Providing a Safe Environment
1. Do not allow your pet to ride unrestrained. A loose animal is an unnecessary distraction for a truck driver and puts your pet at risk in the event of an accident. Use a barrier to prevent access to parts of the cab or use a travel crate.
2. Leash your pet outside of the cab. Make sure you have tags for identification and carry a picture of your pet at all times. Having a microchipped animal may help you be reunited in the event he or she is lost.
3. Hydrate with your own water, Exercise, Repeat!
4. If your pet sheds, you may need to carry extra heating or cooling filters. Change regularly to keep your rig operating smoothly.
Finding a pet friendly CDL job can be a dream come true for truck drivers who want to enjoy the companionship of their furry friends while on the road. By exploring the best pet friendly trucking companies, understanding the requirements, and following the tips for traveling with pets, you can unleash your career in the trucking industry while keeping your pet by your side. Remember to research different trucking jobs, consider the specific policies and benefits they offer, and make an informed decision based on your preferences and the needs of your pet.
Authored By:
Kate Williams
Kate Williams is Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at CDLjobs.com, a trusted leader in the trucking industry since 1999. With over 35 years of experience in finance and business operations, Kate has spent the last two decades helping connect truck drivers with reliable carriers across the United States.
As a driving force behind CDLjobs.com’s growth, she works closely with driver recruiters and industry partners to ensure job seekers have access to high-quality, legitimate driving opportunities.
Based in the Midwest, Kate understands the regional hiring challenges and trends that matter most to CDL drivers. She is dedicated to supporting the American trucking workforce and brings a unique perspective, combining financial strategy with real-world recruiting insight.
Connect with Kate: LinkedIn | More about CDLjobs.com
