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By Frank Gambino
One of the most important lessons I have learned over the last year has been how important it is to stick together. Our team has covered many stories about amazing people who have supported, sacrificed, or contributed to others (time and time again). And we have referred to truckers as the real heroes of America, and this still holds to be true.
There is another party, however, we need to acknowledge too…
You know who they are – they wait by the door, eagerly roll over for belly-rubs and in many cases ride shotgun in the cab of your truck(s). I am, of course, talking about our pets (the other heroes of the coronavirus pandemic).
Many studies have proven how important pets are to our lives, and this feels particularly true for truck drivers out on the road. An article by Knight Transportation details the top 10 health benefits of professional drivers who bring their four-legged friends along for the journey. Among the listed benefits include a tendency to reduce hypertension, relieve stress and even lower risk of depression.
Over the last year, many people at home have experienced for the first time the type of seclusion that many professional drivers face in their day-to-day life. It’s no surprise that Washington Post reported that many animal shelters have experienced surges in adoptions recently, and in some cases have been unable to keep up with the demand for people searching for rescues. Luckily, many truck stops have been developing a plethora of dog parks at their locations, making it easier for professional drivers to bring Fido along for the long haul.
Our pets are the celebrated heroes that maybe we didn’t expect, but after all they have been by our side way before the pandemic. If you or another truck driver is considering a pet for the road, we say, “go for it!” And if you’re not sure where to start – check out this article by CDL that details the best breeds for long-haul drivers and tips on how to travel with them.
