Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/696201
12 // OWNER OPERATOR // JULY 2016 HEALTH HELP them some good. Leashes aren't just for dogs – you can find a leash for just about every animal, including cats, rabbits, ferrets and more. 3. Keep them entertained A bored pet is a destructive pet. Keep your pet entertained so they don't accidentally hurt themselves finding entertainment on their own, or consuming something they shouldn't. Treat-release and puzzle toys will keep your pet occupied for hours as they try to figure it out. For cats, keep a scratch post in your truck so their scratch post doesn't become your seats or bed. For dogs, keep hard plastic bones on hand to indulge their urge to chew. 4. Schedule food and bathroom breaks What goes into your pet on a schedule comes out on a schedule. Instead of free feeding, or leaving a bowl of food out, portion out their meals and give it to them at set times as much as possible. This will get them on a routine, and you'll be able to predict when they'll need to use the restroom. You can plan to feed them before you head out in the morning and when you park your truck at night, for example. For dogs, they'll usually need a bathroom break 5-30 minutes after that. For animals that may not necessarily need to do their business outside, invest in a quality litter box or potty pad system. 5. Set realistic expectations You love your pet, so of course you want to bring them with you if your company's policy allows. But not all animals are a fit for the trucking life. Smaller animals tend to do better in the truck, as larger dogs (over 30-40 pounds or so) tend to require more exercise and can take up quite a bit of space. OO