Yep, that’s a kangaroo

Countless dogs and cats have been spotted riding shotgun in big trucks across the country for probably as long as people have been driving trucks.

But, a kangaroo?

Not something you see on a daily basis, unless you’re Kenny Lovett, who drives with a red kangaroo, named Duncan, often in the seat to his right.

Lovett, who started driving in 1998 and has his own authority, said he’s always been an animal lover.

He wanted something different and fortunately for him a breeder in Texas had just the companion he was looking for.

“It’s different, but it’s fun,” Lovett said. “They (kangaroos) sleep all the time and don’t always like to listen. But they like to cuddle and play. Someone said it’s kind of like having a cat, in some ways.”

As a passenger, Duncan seems to be right at home in the cab, Lovett said.

“He does like it,” Lovett said. “Sometimes he’ll get up in my lap and lay there, or he’ll look out the window. Usually he’s just doing his own thing. Most of the time he’s in his house or asleep.”

The fun really begins when Lovett stops to make a delivery, or hits the nearest truck stop.

“People are surprised,” Lovett said. “They have to take a second look. They can’t believe it. Most people tell me they’ve never seen a kangaroo in person before. That’s what is enjoyable about having Duncan is getting people to smile and laugh. It really makes their day.”

It also brings joy and comfort for Lovett.

“It helps me with just being calm and not having anxiety,” he said. “It’s good to have a companion like that. Seeing the kids smile and get excited when they see Duncan is really heartwarming. If I can make one person smile then it’s all worthwhile.”

Of course with any pet there are challenges with habits and personality. But, all in all, Lovett says Duncan is very friendly and has a good sense of humor.

However, as Duncan continues to grow, Lovett says he’ll eventually have to find a new companion.

“Right now he’s 2 feet tall, but he’ll grow to be between 5½ and 6 feet tall,” Lovett said. “I probably wouldn’t be able to lift him up into the truck at that point, so he’ll stay at the house and in the yard.”

Lovett owns three-and-a-half acres of land so there’s plenty of room to run and graze for Duncan.

But for now, Lovett and Duncan will continue to enjoy their trips from Texas to the Midwest and back.

And in between, Duncan is just part of the family.

“It’s not just when we’re on the road,” Lovett said. “He goes everywhere with us. When we go shopping, go out to eat or go to the store, he goes with us. Even our dogs don’t really mess with him because they know they’re all part of the family.”

The freedom a career in trucking provides as well as the open road drew Lovett to the industry, he said.

Those days on the road are just that much better with Duncan at his side. LL

Land Line Now’s Ashley Blackford contributed to the article.