If you are anything like most other travelers, you have probably found yourself stressed out and just overwhelmed during air travel. The constant nuisances of security waits, delayed flights, and rushed connections are enough to make anyone feel annoyed and helpless.
Fortunately, some airports are starting to realize just how tough air travel can be on passengers, and are starting to offer programs to help cope with the stress. One of my favorites is the Denver International Airport’s CATS program, which stands for Canine Airport Therapy Squad.
This program, which was launched in 2015, has now been offering up furry friends for travelers to pet to reduce the stress and worry that moving through its airport can cause.
Over 40 dogs, as well as one cat, take turns visiting the airport’s terminals and serving as therapy dogs to calm down distressed and anxious travelers. This program, the first of its kind in the world, has been a huge success.
Dogs and their handlers are dispatched to the areas of the airport which have gates that have experienced delays as well as other travel issues in order to let the canine friends (and one feline friend!) put a smile on stressed travelers’ faces.
This program is a perfect example of how humans’ furry friends continue to help us in a huge variety of ways, even while traveling.