Pro Tips from Mack: 3 tips for driving with pets

If driving long roads and routes has you feeling lonely this winter, consider bringing your pet along for the ride.

“I find that it keeps me calm, relaxed, and in a really positive mood all day,” says Mike Whitney, who drives a 2020 Mack Anthem for Lindner Logistics, LLC. About two years ago, he started bringing his pug Gnocchi with him on drives. “Maybe it’s been a long day and traffic is irritating you, but when you look over and see that cute little face staring at you from the passenger seat, how can you not smile?

If you’re thinking about bringing your pet with you, Whitney offers three tips to help set you—and your pet—up for success.

Safety First. Safety when driving isn’t just for humans. Whitney says the most important thing is to consider the safety of your pet. He brings Gnocchi’s bed and then puts it in a box that goes in the passenger seat: “That way, if I have to brake suddenly, she’s not going to go flying forward.” He also uses a dog harness that can hook to a seatbelt, and makes sure to keep some dog treats and water bottles on-hand.

Take Advantage of Lulls. There are plenty of little breaks in a driver’s day—getting loaded or unloaded, refueling, or breaking at a truck stop. When those opportunities allow themselves in safe areas, take your pet out and walk them around. Let them relieve themselves, give them a treat, or find a grassy area they can run around. It’ll help keep them from getting pent-up in the truck.

Make Them Comfortable. It’s important to make sure your pet is also comfortable in the car or going to new locations; bringing a stressed animal is only going to stress you out as well. Find little ways to bring home with you in the truck and help your furry friend feel at-home. “That’s why I bring Gnocchi’s bed, because it’s like a little piece of the house that’s hers,” Whitney says.