The rise of animal therapy programs in airports reflects growing awareness of passenger stress. Data from a 2019 Priority Pass survey revealed that some of the top sources of anxiety for UK travellers include missed flights, lost baggage, delays en route to the airport, and misplacement of essential documents.
After a round of brushing and combing, the woolly natives of South America are ready for their day: spending time with visitors who pay 1,000 yen ($7) for 30 minutes petting them, hugging them and burying faces in their fleece.