{"id":27024,"date":"2020-10-23T11:56:54","date_gmt":"2020-10-23T15:56:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gofleet.com\/?p=27024"},"modified":"2021-07-14T07:19:08","modified_gmt":"2021-07-14T11:19:08","slug":"trucking-with-pets-fleets-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gofleet.com\/trucking-with-pets-fleets-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Trucking With Pets: What Fleets Need To Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

Long haul trucking is often perceived as a lonely job as commercial truck drivers drive long hours to deliver goods over the course of hours, days or even weeks. With the monotony and morale being important concerns, many fleets are looking at how they can make long haul trucking a little more enjoyable. One of the best ways to alleviate these concerns is trucking with pets.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With a multitude of benefits, nearly <\/span>40%<\/span><\/a> of long haul commercial motor vehicle drivers are already taking pets with them on the road. This growing trend is something fleet businesses are continuing to review.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Fleet Pet Policy<\/b><\/h2>\n

Whether you\u2019re a fleet owner or driver, it\u2019s important to review current policies when looking into drivers bringing pets on the road with them. On one hand, fleets must readjust their policies to reflect new values, and on the other hand, fleet companies have not clarified their positions on whether bringing pets would be welcomed. Fleet businesses must constantly review policies, including old and outdated ones, and better adapt to the constantly changing needs of their employees.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u00a0<\/span>Old or Outdated Pet Policy\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n

If your fleet has a pet policy but the language is outdated, it\u2019s important to address it and make the necessary policy modifications. Companies should ensure that old policies do not conflict with new values. Updating the policy on pet companionship in fleets will help companies specifically clarify their position and what is encouraged throughout the company.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It is critical that your policies reflect the current values of your fleet and adapt to changing needs.<\/span><\/p>\n

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No Pet Policy\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n

If there is currently no pet policy – it\u2019s time to make one! While some fleets may be strict about not allowing pets to travel with drivers, many are open to it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If your fleet is looking to enforce a new pet policy to allow trucking with pets – there are a few things to consider:<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. What are the associated fees for bringing a pet along for the ride may be? Typically, fleets require drivers to provide a $200 – $1,500 deposit for insurance in case there are any damages to company property, which includes damages to vehicles, equipment, cargo etc.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Whether there is a maximum pet weight limit, breed or type for animals, drivers can travel with. Typically, fleets set a weight limit between 25 and 35 pounds, which engenders a variety of common breeds such as dachshunds, pugs, terriers, chihuahuas and more.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. The completion of an <\/span>internal training course<\/span><\/a> to review all aspects of bringing a pet on the road. The course will cover what are the best practices to follow with your travelling pet, how to set up your vehicle to support an animal and proper health requirements of animals.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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    Benefits Of Trucking With Pets\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n

    For fleets who encourage drivers to bring their pets along for the ride, there are a multitude of benefits that are associated with having pets travel with their owners.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Fleets can expect for drivers to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol and better overall cardiovascular health, as studies show that having a pet companion can improve health. Drivers can also stay active and reach health goals as they will be required to take daily 20-30 minute walks \u2013 which is perfect for truck stop breaks!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Medical professionals even claim that driving with an animal can reduce stress and anxiety levels as well as provide drivers with a better outlook on life. Since they have a companion on long isolated trips, drivers are less at risk for thinking or feeling negative. A <\/span>study <\/span><\/a>published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology states that pet owners reported fewer doctor visits than non-pet owners. Meaning fleets can even expect healthier drivers, which results in less sick days.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Pets can also reduce fatigue driving and accidents, which are related to driving tired. This is because animals will require drivers to frequently pull over to allow the animal to\u00a0relieve themselves and stretch their legs.\u00a0Furthermore, having pets on board can even deter potential theft.<\/span><\/p>\n

    With an estimated <\/span>3.5 million<\/span><\/a> truck drivers on U.S. roads, fleets cannot afford to overlook the benefits that trucking with pets drives.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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    What Drivers Need To Be Aware Of\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n

    Checking your fleets pet policy isn\u2019t the only factor that drivers need to consider. Apart from checking with management, drivers should ensure the following:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n