GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks North America has teamed up with the Center for Pet Safety to publish a comprehensive guide designed to improve animal security for the thousands of professional drivers who bring pets into their cabs. Released in the wake of National Dog Day, the digital resource addresses the reality that nearly 40% of professional drivers now share their workspace with a cat or dog.
The trucking lifestyle often demands long hours and isolation, leading many to seek companionship on the road. Statistics show that 60% of professional drivers are pet owners, and roughly 800,000 animals currently travel in commercial cabs across the country. This guide provides a standard for those choosing to travel with pets, focusing on crash-tested restraint systems and emergency preparedness that many drivers might otherwise overlook.
Volvo Trucks product marketing manager Maddie Sullivan emphasized that these animals serve as essential partners during long-haul shifts. The guide itself covers everything from selecting the right carrier to managing climate control and hotel etiquette. Research for this initiative involved a rigorous evaluation at the Volvo Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia, where experts tested the VNL’s interior anchor points against various harness and carrier configurations to ensure they hold up under real-world conditions.
What This Means for Drivers
For the average CDL-A driver, the biggest takeaway is the importance of proper restraint while the vehicle is in motion. Unsecured animals can become projectiles in a sudden stop, creating a safety hazard for both the pet and the operator. Owner-operators should review their current cab setup to ensure that their chosen pet carriers are compatible with the strength-tested anchor points found in newer equipment like the Volvo VNL. Utilizing these certified systems helps maintain a safe environment and prevents distractions that could complicate adherence to FMCSA regulations.
Industry Reaction
Lindsey Wolko, founder and CEO of the Center for Pet Safety, noted that the collaboration was born out of a need to answer recurring questions regarding animal safety in the unique environment of a commercial vehicle. By providing clear, vetted information, the project aims to reduce the risks associated with traveling with pets. As more trucking companies are hiring drivers who value the flexibility of bringing a pet along, this guide provides a necessary benchmark for safety in the modern cab.
Key Points
- Nearly 40% of professional drivers currently bring a pet along on their OTR routes.
- The guide offers specific advice on crash-tested harnesses and emergency first-aid kits for animals.
- Volvo’s VNL interior was specifically evaluated for compatibility with certified pet restraint systems.
- The resource is free to download for any driver seeking to improve their pet's safety on the road.
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