Meet Heather Krebs: The Unconventional Truck Driver
Purple-haired truck driver Heather Krebs, who travels with her hairless Sphynx cat named Pebbles (affectionately called “Squish”), doesn’t conform to the stereotype of a typical trucker. For Krebs, having her feline companion on board was non-negotiable when considering a career in trucking. “If I couldn’t bring her, I wouldn’t have done it,” Krebs remarked, emphasizing her deep bond with Pebbles.
A Lifelong Animal Lover
Krebs has always had a passion for animals, confirmed by her 16 years of experience as a veterinary medicine technician, during which she adopted five cats, including Pebbles. “It’s not unheard of in the veterinary field,” she explained. While owning five Sphynx cats may seem unusual, Krebs feels it perfectly aligns with her personality.
Finding Her Feline Connection
Though Krebs identifies more as a dog person, she is particularly fond of Sphynx cats for their friendly demeanor and sociable nature. Her affection for the breed began when she first saw one on television as a child, and she vowed that if she ever had a cat, it would be a Sphynx. The companionship of these cats has helped her through personal struggles, including depression and divorce.
Transitioning Careers
Despite enjoying her time as a vet tech, Krebs faced physical challenges that led to surgeries on her hands. After one particular surgery, she joined her truck-driving boyfriend, Kelly Jones, on a three-week trip and quickly fell in love with the lifestyle. This experience sparked her interest in pursuing a career in trucking, especially as her children were now grown and graduated from college.
Embracing Change
Krebs is eager to see parts of the country she’s never explored, especially as a lifelong Californian who has lived in San Diego. “I haven’t seen many other places,” she said, expressing her enthusiasm for the adventure that lies ahead. When Jones suggested the idea of relocating, Krebs was open to it, considering the opportunities that living elsewhere could provide.
A Unique Road Companion
As Krebs wraps up her CDL training with Knight Transportation, she made sure to clarify that she could bring a cat along for the journey. She faced the tough decision of choosing which of her five cats to accompany her; Pebbles emerged as the best choice due to her temperament. Though the other cats will be cared for by friends during her travels, Krebs treasures the moments spent with Pebbles as her co-pilot.
A Symbol of Resilience
In addition to her love for cats, Krebs expresses her individuality through her vibrant purple hair, a tribute to her survival journey after overcoming breast cancer. She embraces her freedom and the exciting life changes ahead. With Pebbles by her side, Krebs feels she has found the life she was always meant to lead, embodying resilience and adventure on the open road.
