On the Road with Tyler Whitney: A CitizenShipper Journey

Cagri Sarigoz Cagri Sarigoz · Updated July 1, 2024

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A man in a light blue shirt smiles at the camera while sitting in a car next to a curly-haired dog wearing a harness. The dog faces the window.

Discovering a path seldom traveled can sometimes lead you to an unexpected yet fulfilling career. For Tyler Whitney, it was his brother’s suggestion that introduced him to CitizenShipper, a platform where he has since carved a niche for himself transporting pets, making new four-legged friends, and exploring scenic routes across the States. Recently Tyler shared the ins and outs of his journey, the joys and the challenges of pet transportation.  Find animal-loving drivers like Tyler on our pet transportation marketplace.

First Impressions and Following Through

Tyler’s first trip — a poodle moving from the Windy City of Chicago to sunny Florida — set a high bar for his experiences on CitizenShipper. “It was the perfect first trip,” he reminisces, remembering the well-behaved poodle and its owner who was flexible and appreciative of Tyler’s reliability and willingness to adjust schedules according to weather conditions. This initial experience was a precursor to the kind of service Tyler aimed to provide: dependable, flexible and compassionate.

Humane Care for the Most Vulnerable Dogs

Among the many stories Tyler has to share, one stands out. He transported a 14-year-old dog from North Carolina to Massachusetts, moving from the home it had known all its life. “The owner was very emotional,” Tyler recounts, “She was grateful that I had a nice setup in the car that allowed him to be transported in comfort.” Making several stops along the way for walks and exercise, Tyler ensured the senior dog’s journey was as comfortable and stress-free as possible. It’s these moments of care and connection that highlight the unique and meaningful service CitizenShipper drivers provide.

A person holding a black puppy with large ears inside a car. The person is wearing a black and gray jacket and a smartwatch.

Safety and Comfort on the Road

For Tyler, ensuring the safety and comfort of his furry passengers is paramount. Utilizing his Ford Explorer or Ford Edge, he maintains a crate in the car for the pets but also adapts to the needs of the pet and the owner’s preferences. “Some owners ask that their pets not ride in a crate and just lay in the back seat, which I also accommodate,” he explains.

Advice for New Drivers

Tyler suggests starting local and offering services close to cost to gain experience and positive reviews. “It’s about proving you can be local and reliable,” he advises. His approach has allowed him to establish a rapport with the CitizenShipper community quickly and effectively.

A young brown and black puppy, with large ears, stands in a crate inside a vehicle. A hand is seen in the foreground touching its side.

Communication Is Key

Regular updates are a staple of Tyler’s service. He texts pet owners after booking, twice the week before the transportation, and sends pictures daily during the trip. “Most appreciate the pictures and the updates on where I am taking breaks,” he says. This communication ensures pet owners are at ease, knowing their beloved pets are in good hands.

The Journey Ahead

Tyler views his work with CitizenShipper as a hobby, something he plans to continue as a part-time endeavor. His preferred routes are the picturesque drives from Kentucky to Florida or the Carolinas, taking in the beauty of the country while on the job. Despite the occasional challenge, like ensuring a pet’s medication is correctly administered, Tyler has found his rhythm and a joy in transporting pets to their new homes.

A small brown and white dog with droopy ears sits on a car seat looking up.

Conclusion: A Ride Worth Taking

For Tyler Whitney, every trip with CitizenShipper is not just a job; it’s an adventure, a chance to make a difference in the lives of pets and their owners. Tyler’s experiences underline the essence of what CitizenShipper drivers offer: a reliable, compassionate and personalized transport service. His journey demystifies the logistics of pet transportation, highlighting it as an endeavor of heart, commitment, and care—making each mile traveled a ride worth taking.

If you’re passionate about animals and looking for an adventurous side gig, perhaps it’s time to consider becoming a part of the CitizenShipper driver community. Drive with heart, with purpose, and like Tyler, you might find yourself on a fulfilling journey, one happy paw at a time.