Partnership for Safer Travel
Volvo Trucks North America has teamed up with the Center for Pet Safety to enhance safe and comfortable travel for commercial drivers and their pets. This collaboration aims to address the needs of long-haul drivers who often travel with their four-legged companions.
Commitment to Safety
Maddie Sullivan, product marketing manager at Volvo Trucks North America, stated, “For many long-haul drivers, their dog is their constant companion through every mile. Safety is ingrained in our culture and includes everyone on the road, whether they have two legs or four. We are excited to partner with the Center for Pet Safety to learn how drivers travel with their pets and to provide useful advice that enhances their comfort and safety.”
Pet Ownership Among Drivers
Volvo reports that over 60% of truck drivers own pets, with nearly 40% taking their pets on the road with them, highlighting a strong bond between professional drivers and their animals.
Enhancing Driver Experience
According to Volvo, “For many professional drivers, having a pet on the road is part of the lifestyle, offering comfort and companionship.” This new collaboration aims to provide drivers with the knowledge needed to keep their pets safe and at ease while traveling.
Testing the New Volvo VNL
As part of the collaboration, experts from the Center for Pet Safety will visit Volvo’s Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia, to evaluate the all-new Volvo VNL, the company’s latest long-haul flagship. Pet safety specialists will assess the vehicle’s safety features and driver comfort, focusing particularly on the Volvo Parking Cooler and systems designed to maintain ideal in-cab conditions for both drivers and their pets.
Monitoring In-Cab Conditions
This feature is particularly important for drivers who may need to leave their pets in the cab during short breaks, regardless of the weather. With Volvo’s connected app, drivers can remotely monitor and adjust the cab temperature, ensuring a safe environment to keep pets calm and attentive.
Digital Resource for Pet Safety
Volvo Trucks and the Center for Pet Safety are also co-developing a digital guide that will promote safe pet travel in commercial vehicles, set to be released on their websites in early 2026. The guide will provide practical tips for drivers, including in-cab arrangements, restraint systems, health planning, and lists of pet-friendly rest areas across the country.
