What New Truck Drivers Need To Know About Trucking With Pets:
The FMCSA does not expressly address the issue of truck drivers who travel with pets, as long as safe driving is not compromised.
Expect that pet-friendly trucking companies will require pet deposits, fees, or other pay adjustments to cover any cleaning or repair costs to their trucks.
Be prepared for restrictions on where your pet is and is not allowed. Do plenty of research as part of your trip-planning, if necessary.
Typically, most pet-friendly companies will allow only dogs, with some exceptions for cats or other pets. The more exotic animals like snakes and rats may not be hardy or adaptable enough for long trips, and are generally prohibited, or at least discouraged.
See Also: List Of Trucking Companies That Allow Pets
Many states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), or Health Certificate, in order to bring animals into or through that state. Expect to have to keep proof of current rabies vaccinations, at the very least.
On This Page:
Tips For Trucking With Your Pet:
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Find A Pet-Friendly Trucking Company:
Nearly every trucking company that allows pets will have a different set of policies for it, some more restrictive and specific than others.
You can find a list of companies that allow pets, along with their specific policy, if available, here:
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Keep Expectations Realistic:
With few exceptions, trucking companies are going to place restrictions on the type, number, and size of pets that they allow drivers to take on the road in their trucks, though a few companies advertise "anything goes".
Be prepared for emergencies. Aside from preparing for unexpected expenses, know the locations of possible emergency care facilities. PetSmart offers veterinary services in many of their stores through Banfield Pet Hospital.
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Keep Your Pet Safe On The Road:
Most companies will require you to provide, and keep with you, current health and vaccination records for your pet. Additionally, most states will also specifically require having proof of up-to-date rabies vaccinations.
Preventative medication for heart-worm and other parasites is highly recommended any time you take your pet on an interstate trip.
Any time your pet leaves the truck when away from home, it should be on a leash or restraint of some sort. Especially when pets get more used to the sights and sounds of the road, they may be more inclined to explore, or bolt.
Make sure they are wearing a collar with the necessary information on the tags, specifically rabies and owner contact tags. Get your pet micro-chipped to make them easier to track down, in case you get separated.
Trucking With Cats:
- Cats can provide truck drivers the companionship of a loving pet, without all of the extra stops. Taking a cat on the road presents a different set of responsibilities for most drivers, especially regarding the litter box and odors in the confined spaces of the cab.
- Be prepared to clean the litter box frequently. Scented bags made specifically for pet waste should be on your list of items to take, if you have a cat along.
- Make sure your cat actually likes to ride in vehicles. Some cats, being cats, are adamantly opposed to it, and drivers should know their animals and know if they can handle riding along.
- Bring a good quality scratching post. Trust us.
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Source: https://www.truckingtruth.com/wiki/topic-60/tips-for-trucking-with-your-pets
