Long hours on the road can be lonely when you’re an OTR driver! To lessen the impact of so many solo hours behind the wheel, Lynch Logistics has implemented a “ride along” policy that allows drivers to bring their pets along for the ride. Here are a few reasons why that’s a GREAT idea:
Truck Driving with Pets can Improve your Overall Health and Well Being
Studies have shown that pets can have a positive impact on our physical health, such as lowering blood pressure, improved heart health, and decreased risk of stroke. Additionally, having a pet can help reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, which can lead to improved mental health and overall well-being. Additional health benefits include:
- Lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides
- Reduced doctor visits
- Elevated levels of dopamine and serotonin.
- Reduced hypertension
Pets in Your Truck Can Provide Companionship and Emotional Support
One of humans’ most basic needs is companionship. When spending long bouts of time alone on the road, drivers may be left wanting in this regard. Pets provide a supportive presence, can be scratched and petted, talked to, add humor and offer engagement to an otherwise solo experience. Truck driving can be a stressful and emotionally taxing job. Having a pet in the cab with you can provide much-needed companionship and emotional support. Pets can be a great source of comfort and can help relieve stress and anxiety, making it easier for truck drivers to cope with the challenges of the job.
Pets Can Inspire Healthy Habits
Drivers have to consider their pets’ health, needs, happiness, diet and hydration, etc., on the road. The driver’s routine is often impacted in these healthy ways:
Pets Require Structure: Because a dog, cat, or other ride-along friend needs regular exercise, bathroom breaks, and even a designated feeding time, drivers are more likely to pull over at specific intervals. A solo driver is less likely to break up their ride with more stops, even if it would be beneficial for their health or routine.
Pets Create Opportunity For Exercise: Drivers who prioritize their pets’ routines are presented with more opportunities to get outside, stretch their legs, walk the dog, and keep their bodies healthy. A pet is a great exercise partner! This results in an improvement to general health and is also beneficial for shedding extra body weight.
Increased Safety and Security
Truck drivers who travel with a pet often report feeling safer and more secure on the road. A dog, for example, can act as a deterrent against potential threats, and can also alert their owner to any potential danger. Moreover, having a pet in the truck can make it less likely to be targeted by thieves, as the presence of a pet suggests that someone is in the cab.
Improved Social Life
Truck driving can be a solitary profession, but having a pet on the road can help truck drivers socialize with other people. Dogs, in particular, are great icebreakers and can help their owners strike up conversations with other drivers, truck stop staff, and even people at rest areas.
In conclusion, truck driving with pets offers a number of benefits for drivers. From providing companionship and emotional support to improving physical and mental health, the advantages of having a pet in the truck are numerous. If you are a truck driver considering bringing a pet on the road, and you want to work for a company that values you and your pets, check out our available jobs today!