Bringing a pet along in your truck can turn long hauls into more enjoyable, less lonely experiences. For many drivers at Pride Transport, having a four-legged co-pilot adds companionship, routine, and a sense of home while on the road. But life with a pet in the cab isn’t always easy or straightforward. Before loading up the leash and water bowl, there are a few important things to consider. From pet-friendly cab setups to planning safe stops, here’s what you need to know before making your pet a part of your OTR life.

1. Know the Rules Before You Roll

Before anything else, check your company’s pet policy. At Pride Transport, we understand the value pets can bring to a driver’s lifestyle, and we offer a driver-focused approach to pet companionship on the road. That said, it’s essential to speak with your fleet manager or recruiter to confirm the specifics for your truck assignment. Some carriers may require a pet deposit or limit certain breeds, sizes, or types of animals. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) does not have a standard regulation for pets in commercial vehicles, so policies can vary widely.

It’s also smart to think through how a pet will impact your route planning, truck parking, delivery windows, and downtime. Not all customers, terminals, or truck stops are pet-friendly, so a little advanced research goes a long way in avoiding surprises.

2. Set Up Your Cab for Comfort and Safety

Your truck isn’t just a vehicle, it’s your mobile living space. If you’re adding a pet to that space, comfort and safety are critical. Create a dedicated area in the cab that includes a secure crate or a safety harness designed for travel. This protects your pet in case of sudden stops and prevents distractions while driving. Place non-slip bedding or a mat to help your pet feel stable during turns or rough roads. Make sure food and water bowls are easy to access but won’t spill during motion.

Temperature control is another top concern. Be mindful of heat or cold inside the cab, especially if you’ll be parked for an extended time. Never leave your pet alone in the truck without proper ventilation and climate management. It’s also a good idea to carry copies of your pet’s health records, vaccination documents, and identification tags in case you cross state lines or need emergency care.

3. Plan for Stops, Breaks, and Health Needs

Having a pet on board means adding their needs to your daily routine. Just like you, your pet needs regular breaks to move, relieve themselves, hydrate, and reset.

Make Pet Friendly Stops

Schedule stops every few hours and look for rest areas or truck stops with pet-friendly zones. Some truck stop chains, such as Love’s and Iowa 80, have been expanding their pet-friendly amenities, including dog parks and designated walking areas.

When parked, never open your cab door without first securing your pet with a leash or harness. Parking lots and loading yards can be chaotic, and it only takes a second for a curious animal to wander into danger.

Prioritize The Health of Your Furry Friend

It is important to keep a basic pet first-aid kit on board and look up local vet clinics along your main routes. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends microchipping all traveling pets and keeping a printed copy of vaccination records in case of emergency as well. If you’re planning longer hauls, consider locations where you can rest overnight and ensure your pet can do the same safely.

Pet Insurance Through MetLife

Pride Transport drivers can take advantage of optional pet insurance through MetLife, offering coverage for dogs and cats of all ages. This benefit helps reduce the cost of vet visits, with an exclusive 20% discount on premiums for Pride employees. While pre-existing conditions aren’t covered, this insurance can make unexpected medical bills more manageable. It’s one more way we help you care for your four-legged copilots on and off the road. You can read more about this benefit here.

4. Train Your Pet to Be a Calm, Reliable Co-Pilot

Not every pet is suited for life on the road. Before committing to long-haul life together, spend time training your pet for truck life. This means getting them used to the sounds, motion, and vibrations of your cab. Start with short test drives and gradually work up to longer periods behind the wheel. The goal is to ensure your pet feels secure without interfering with your driving focus.

Basic commands like “stay,” “quiet,” and “place” (for a bed or crate) are helpful in truck stop environments or delivery sites. A pet that barks excessively, paces in the cab, or reacts unpredictably to new environments may not be ready for the road. Good behavior isn’t just a convenience, it’s a safety requirement. Your attention should stay on the road, not on calming down a nervous animal. For both your safety and theirs, never let your pet roam free in the cab while you’re driving.

5. Weigh the Benefits and Be Prepared for the Responsibility

There’s no doubt that bringing a pet along can improve mental health and reduce the stress that sometimes comes with long hauls. Many Pride Transport drivers say their pets help them feel more grounded, provide companionship, and add joy to their days. But this benefit comes with added responsibility. Cleaning, feeding, walking, and monitoring your pet’s health must become part of your daily schedule. A pet can also affect your flexibility. Some assignments, equipment, or delivery sites may not be a good fit for animals in the cab.

Having a backup plan is also wise. If your route changes or if your pet becomes ill on the road, you’ll need options to ensure their care doesn’t disrupt your work or compromise safety. Like any meaningful partnership, driving with a pet requires commitment, planning, and communication.

Ready to Bring Your Best Friend on the Road?

At Pride Transport, we believe in creating a driving experience that supports your lifestyle, including life with your furry co-pilot. If you're considering hitting the road with your pet, talk to your fleet manager to make sure you're set up for success. With the right preparation, your pet can become a source of comfort, motivation, and companionship every mile of the way.

Thinking about driving for a company that supports you?
Explore current job opportunities and join a team that values who you are, on and off the road. Visit Pride Transport Careers today and apply to drive with Pride.