A Van Routine for Tradespeople Who Bring the Dog

A dog in the van changes the working day a little. None of it is difficult, but it works better as a routine than as something you remember halfway down the motorway.

Before you leave

Check the crate or harness is fixed. Fill a water container and pack a bowl. Put a lead, waste bags and an old towel in the same place every day so you are not hunting for them on a customer's drive.

Plan the stops

Look at the day's jobs and decide where the dog gets out. A recreation ground near the second job is better than a lay-by. Ten minutes at mid-morning and a longer walk at lunch suits most dogs and does you no harm either.

At each job

Ask before the dog leaves the van. Park in shade where you can, with ventilation, and never leave a dog shut in a warm vehicle. If the job will take all day in hot weather, leave the dog at home.

Keep records where you can reach them

Have the insurance policy number, vaccination dates and your vet's number on your phone. If you work across a wide area, know how to find a practice near the job. There is a practical guide to taking your dog to work as a tradesperson that covers travel, sites and finding a vet away from home.

End of the day

Wipe paws before the dog goes back in the van, check for cuts or anything stuck between the pads, and refill the water container ready for the morning. Five minutes now saves a muddy cab and a slow start tomorrow.