Therapy Pups at the Phoenix Airport Are Melting Passengers' Hearts
Not a lot of people love visiting airports. You're stressed getting through the ticket line and security, airports are usually crowded, and there's always that fear that you may miss your flight. Well, in a video posted on August 27 from Phoenix, Arizona, it clearly illustrates what would make any trip to even the most crowded airport a total joy, being visited by a precious service dog.
Watch the following to see Cooper the service dog spreading joy and comfort to airline travelers.
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The clip posted by the TikTok account for @Alliemitchhh shows a volunteer walking their adorable service dog around the airport to help travelers de-stress.
The program, called the PHX Navigator Buddies, provides a therapy dog service to its passengers. The Navigator Buddies – dogs and their owners – volunteer a minimum of 2.25 hours per week at the airport. They walk the terminals offering opportunities for passengers to pet and enjoy some quality time with man’s best friend.
Spending time with therapy dogs involves physical touch and affection, such as petting, cuddling, and stroking. This physical contact triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone known as the "cuddle hormone," which promotes feelings of bonding, comfort, and relaxation. Spending time with therapy dogs have also been shown to lower blood pressure, and that's basically something anyone visiting a crowded airport needs.
Anyone taking a flight knows you should always arrive at the airport early, but getting to hang out with a dog like Cooper would make me arrive for my flight extra early. He's way better than visiting the newsstand to blow money on snacks and magazines!
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