Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) has taken a heartwarming step to ease the stress of modern-day air travel. In a first-of-its-kind initiative in India, the airport has launched a Therapy Dog Programme—a thoughtful move aimed at reducing anxiety, lifting moods, and making the travel experience a little more human.
Why It Matters: A Calmer Journey Starts Here
With airports becoming increasingly crowded and fast-paced, RGIA is reimagining the flying experience. Inspired by similar global efforts in LAX, Denver, and Tokyo, Hyderabad brings its own flavour of warmth with four charming toy poodles stationed at key points in both domestic and international terminals.
Whether you're near a boarding gate or browsing retail zones, don’t be surprised if a gentle, soft-eyed pup strolls by—ready to turn your tension into a smile.
What You Can Expect When Paws Meet Passengers
These canine companions, accompanied by trained handlers, interact with passengers for four to six hours each day. And yes, it’s all voluntary—no forced cuddles here. The sessions are designed to provide lighthearted moments of connection in an otherwise stressful setting.
Highlights include:
- Fetch Play – A light game to loosen up those pre-boarding nerves.
- Selfie Zone – Capture a feel-good moment in designated no-flash areas.
- Gentle Petting Sessions – Relax into a calming touch experience, always supervised for the dogs’ and passengers’ comfort.
The dogs are trained to be non-intrusive—they’ll only approach if invited. The entire programme is about respectful, mindful interaction.
Friendly DOs & DON’Ts to Keep in Mind
DOs:
1. Interact only if you're comfortable—no pressure, just pawsitive vibes.
2. Approach the dogs gently and give them a moment to get familiar with you.
3. Listen to the handlers—they’re here to ensure a safe and soothing experience for all.
4. Feel free to click photos, but remember to turn off the flash.
5. If you have allergies or feel uneasy, simply observe from a distance.
6. Keep an eye on young children during interactions to ensure everyone’s safety.
DON’Ts:
1. Don’t try to pick up the dogs or pull their ears or tails.
2. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises—they’re calm companions, not performers.
3. Refrain from feeding the dogs or offering them treats.
4. Don’t force interaction—let the dogs come to you at their own pace.
5. Please don’t treat the dogs like toys—they’re trained therapy animals offering emotional support.
Backed by Science, Rooted in Compassion
Therapy dogs are more than just adorable companions. Scientific research shows that time spent with therapy animals can:
- Lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels
- Boost serotonin (the feel-good hormone)
- Provide emotional support through non-verbal connection
More Than Just Airport Companions
India has already embraced therapy dogs in hospitals, elder care homes, and schools. Organisations like Animal Angels Foundation are working to expand the reach of animal-assisted therapy. With this initiative, Hyderabad Airport becomes a trailblazer in extending this comfort to the travel community.
In a world where air travel is often transactional and exhausting, RGIA’s Therapy Dog Programme reminds us of the simple power of presence. It’s a small gesture—but one that transforms how we feel, wait, and fly.
Because sometimes, all it takes to soothe travel nerves is a soft paw and a wagging tail.
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