“For many long-haul drivers, their dog is their constant companion through every mile,” said Maddie Sullivan, product marketing manager, Volvo Trucks North America. “Safety is in our DNA, and that extends to everyone on the road, whether they have two legs or four. We’re proud to partner with the Center for Pet Safety to understand better how drivers travel with their pets and to share practical guidance that supports their comfort and safety.”

According to Volvo, more than 60 percent of truck drivers have pets, and nearly 40 percent bring them on the road. For these drivers, animals provide more than companionship. They get a sense of home in life on the highway.

“For many professional drivers, traveling with a pet is part of the lifestyle, offering comfort, companionship, and a sense of home on every route,” Volvo said. “This new collaboration aims to help drivers make informed choices to keep their pets safe and relaxed while on the road.”

Testing the New Volvo VNL for Pet Safety

As part of this partnership, specialists from the Center for Pet Safety are visiting the Volvo Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia, to review the new Volvo VNL. The team will explore how the truck’s design, comfort, and safety systems support both drivers and pets.

One major focus is the Volvo Parking Cooler and the systems that regulate in-cab temperature. For drivers who travel with animals, these details matter. Through Volvo’s connected app, drivers can monitor and adjust cab conditions remotely. That means pets stay safe and comfortable during breaks, no matter what the weather brings.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Volvo Trucks North America to spotlight the unique needs of commercial drivers traveling with their pets,” said Lindsey Wolko, founder and chief executive officer of the Center for Pet Safety. “By combining Volvo’s engineering leadership with our rigorous safety standards, this partnership will deliver practical guidance, product recommendations, and travel resources tailored for the long-haul driving community.”

A New Online Guide for Drivers Traveling with Pets

Volvo Trucks and the Center for Pet Safety are developing a digital guide that will launch in early 2026. It will include detailed advice for drivers who travel with pets, covering safe restraint options, wellness tips, and a directory of pet-friendly rest areas across the country.

For truck drivers, pets often make the road feel more like home. This partnership between Volvo Trucks and the Center for Pet Safety shows how much the industry values both driver and companion. Each new safety step helps ensure that every journey is safer, calmer, and more connected for the people and pets who keep America moving.

Image Source: Volvo

Other Source:  The Trucker

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Health Perks—Big and Small

Let’s be honest: eating right, staying active, and keeping your stress in check aren’t easy when you’re clocking mile after mile. Pets can nudge drivers toward a healthier routine almost without thinking about it. Need to walk the dog? There’s your reason to get out, stretch those legs, and clear your mind for a few minutes. More walking, less sitting, that’s good news for your heart and your waistline. On average, dog owners just move more, plain and simple.

There’s even evidence from health pros that folks with pets end up with lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol, and fewer doctor visits. That adds up over a lot of highway exits. Even if you’re not seeing your dog as a personal trainer, that daily movement helps a lot.

Routine and the Little Things

Truckers know routine is key to staying sharp on the road, and pets don’t let you skip the basics. When your travel buddy needs a food or potty break, you end up with a natural rhythm that fits pretty well with safe driving habits. A well-timed walk with the dog keeps you alert and on track for required rest stops, too.

Company That Counts

There’s nothing quite like having a pet around for company, especially when the sunsets are pretty but the miles feel long. Pets don’t fill the cab with chatter, but their presence changes things. The simple act of having a dog’s head on your knee or hearing a cat purr at the end of a shift can switch your mood from stressed-out to calm, just like that. A lot of drivers find it keeps loneliness at bay, plain and simple.

Safety in Numbers

Not everything about the road feels safe these days, especially at rest stops after dark. Drivers with dogs often say that just having a furry co-pilot helps them sleep better at night. Most dogs will let you know if something’s off, giving a little peace of mind. Cats might not bark at trouble, but you know what to expect with them, and routines matter.

A Few Real-World Tips

Don’t forget the basics: Secure your pet with a harness or sturdy carrier when the wheels are turning. Always make sure there’s fresh water and they’re not getting too hot in the cab, summer sun sneaks up fast. Double-check those ID tags before heading out, and know your company’s and state’s pet policies to save hassles down the line.

At the end of the day, pets can make a world of difference on a cross-country run. From boosting your health to giving you a sense of home on the road, there’s no denying they’re good for drivers. For many, a pet in the cab means better days and safer nights, no drama, just company that matters.

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1. Understand Your Company’s Pet Policy

Before anything else, check with your carrier. Not all companies allow pets in their trucks, and those that do often have strict guidelines. For example, Roehl Transport allows pets but requires a non-refundable deposit and proof of vaccinations. Prime Inc. also permits dogs or cats under 30 pounds with a signed pet policy agreement. Common restrictions include size or breed limitations, spay/neuter requirements, and specific paperwork.

If you’re an owner-operator, you’ll have more freedom, but it’s still worth confirming that any customer-facing policies (especially at certain docks or facilities) won’t prevent you from having a pet in the cab.

2. Keep Legal Documents Handy

Traveling across state lines with a pet means carrying the right paperwork. At a minimum, you should have:

A current rabies certificate

Proof of vaccinations and vet visits

A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), especially for newer pets or certain states

These documents may be requested during inspections or at weigh stations. Keeping them organized in a folder or digital format ensures you’re never caught off guard.

3. Safety Comes First

Unrestrained pets in a moving truck are not just distracting—they’re a safety hazard. Use crash-tested pet seat belts, harnesses, or secure crates. Make sure your setup keeps the pet comfortable while preventing movement during sudden stops.

Also, consider adding a barrier between the front seats and the sleeper area to create a safe “rest zone” for your pet while you drive. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, proper restraint can protect both you and your pet in an accident.

4. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Truck

The inside of a cab can heat up fast—even with the windows cracked. According to the National Weather Service, vehicle interiors can rise more than 30°F in just 30 minutes. Leaving a pet in a hot cab, even briefly, can be fatal. If you’re stopping for fuel, food, or a break, plan ahead to make sure your pet can stay safe. Use window shades, fans, or idle-management systems with built-in climate control when absolutely necessary.

5. Ease into Road Life

Just like humans, pets need time to adapt. Start with short trips to help your pet get comfortable in the truck. Gradually increase trip length and maintain a consistent routine. Bring familiar items like a bed, toys, or blanket to create a sense of comfort.

Also, be prepared for accidents. Keep pet-safe cleaning supplies on hand, and make sure your rig is stocked with extra food, water, waste bags, and travel bowls.

6. Plan Regular Breaks

Pets need regular exercise and bathroom breaks—just like their humans. Plan stops every few hours and avoid areas with high truck traffic for safety. Rest areas with grassy patches or pet relief zones can be helpful. Some drivers also recommend using apps like BringFido or Trucker Path to find pet-friendly stops on the route.

Routine stops not only help your pet stay healthy but also give you a chance to recharge mentally and physically.

7. Enjoy the Benefits

Beyond companionship, pets can offer a range of benefits for truckers. They help relieve stress, encourage physical movement during breaks, and even provide a sense of security while parked overnight. Studies have shown that pet ownership can reduce anxiety and depression, both of which are common challenges among long-haul drivers.

Trucking with a pet can make life on the road more enjoyable—but it also requires commitment. By following company policies, keeping your pet’s documents up to date, and focusing on safety and comfort, you can build a routine that works for both of you. With the right preparation, a four-legged co-pilot might just be the best addition to your rig.

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