Why Some Truckers Take Their Pets on the Road Explained for Students in Dispatch Training

Pets in the workplace are not a new phenomenon. Many different work environments incorporate pets to reduce stress, boost morale, and increase productivity. One workplace where not everyone expects to see pets is in the cab of a transport truck. Many companies allow drivers to bring their pets along on trips, for a lot of the same reasons. Though it takes a little extra work and preparation to bring a pet with them, drivers value the safety and emotional support that pets provide, helping them with their daily challenges on the highway.

Read on for a look at what drivers can get out of bringing their pets on trips.

After Dispatch Training, You May See Drivers Combat Loneliness with Pets

Sometimes people choose to go into a truck driving career because they enjoy solitude. However, love and belonging is a basic human need and being alone on the road can become very isolating for many drivers. Animals are wonderful companions, especially for drivers who prefer not to be surrounded by other people, and went into the field for that reason.

Stress is a major factor on the road as well, with traffic jams, time crunches, and personal safety to worry about. In your work after your dispatcher courses, you will have to take stress into consideration when communicating and interacting with team members. Drivers could bring dogs (or cats!) with them for a balanced mood and clear head, arming them against the detriments of prolonged stress on the body.

Pets Can Be Helpful Security Guards

A pet can act as a living alarm system for truck drivers working in isolated situations. Barking or alerting the driver to threats can be what makes the difference between a small scare and a dangerous situation. Many drivers value this as the primary reason they bring a pet on the road, especially if they sleep in their trucks. For female drivers, dangers are heightened while on the road and safety is of utmost importance. A dog can detect suspicious sounds before a human can, as well as offer physical protection if needed.

If you are in dispatch training, you already might be planning on working in safety management. Pets can help make drivers safer. When a loved one is present, drivers tend to be more careful, as they want to guard their wellbeing. Drivers who have their pups sitting next to them are more likely to take fewer risks on the road and stay safe.

Drivers You Will Work with after Dispatch Training May Face Fitness Challenges

Long periods spent sitting behind the wheel increases a driver’s risk of many health issues, including cardiorespiratory illness and obesity. Lack of movement affects circulation, mobility, and strength. It’s important for drivers to incorporate movement into their day to combat these risks, but it can be tempting to ignore physical needs when there are deadlines to meet. This is where pets come in to save the day.

Pets force drivers to get up and move their bodies. They require bathroom stops, food, and water as well as short walks or chances to stretch and run around. This gives drivers a reason to stop, play with their furry companion, and get their blood flowing.

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