Hyderabad Airport Introduces Therapy Dogs To Help Travellers Deal With Anxiety

Flying can be stressful, but Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) is hoping to ease that journey with a wagging tail and a friendly nudge. In a first-of-its-kind initiative for the airport, a therapy dog programme has been introduced to help passengers relax and enjoy a more comforting travel experience. Designed to reduce anxiety, elevate moods, and create a calm atmosphere, therapy dogs will now be part of the airport's engagement strategy. The initiative can help passengers feel welcomed and emotionally supported as they navigate their way through the airport.

Where To Find Therapy Dogs At Hyderabad Airport

Two trained therapy dogs will be deployed daily at key passenger touchpoints within the domestic and international departures area. Travellers can spot them post-security, near retail zones and boarding gates. They will be on duty for 4 to 6 hours a day, ensuring they receive adequate rest and care. These four-legged companions will always remain under the supervision of certified handlers, and passenger interaction is completely voluntary.

Why Airports Are Focusing On Passenger Wellbeing More Than Ever

As travel resumes in full swing post-pandemic, many flyers are reporting heightened anxiety around crowds, health concerns, and delays. In response, airports across the world are rethinking passenger services to prioritise comfort and emotional support. Hyderabad Airport's therapy dog initiative aligns with a growing global trend where airports are being designed not just for speed and efficiency but also to create a more human-centred travel experience.

Why More Airports Are Introducing Therapy Dogs

Air travel is often linked to long queues, unexpected delays, and the mental load of navigating terminals. Therapy dogs are known to offer emotional comfort, lower stress hormones like cortisol, and increase serotonin levels. Just a few minutes of petting a calm dog can ease tension, particularly for anxious flyers, unaccompanied travellers, or children. Beyond their calming presence, these dogs bring a sense of ease and familiarity to the airport environment, helping to make travel feel less overwhelming.

What Science Says About Therapy Dogs And Stress Relief

According to studies by institutions such as the Mayo Clinic and the American Kennel Club, spending time with therapy animals can significantly reduce symptoms of stress. Petting a dog for just 5 to 10 minutes has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety levels. It is a non-verbal form of support that can be especially grounding in chaotic spaces like airports.

Passengers Are Already Responding With Smiles

The initiative has already begun to draw positive reactions from travellers. Photos of the therapy dogs at RGIA have surfaced on social media, with many passengers calling it a "brilliant move" and a "small joy that made a big difference" to their journey. "It instantly made the atmosphere feel lighter. I was nervous before my flight, but this completely shifted my mood," said one flyer on Instagram.

Where Else Can You Spot Airport Therapy Dogs?

Hyderabad is joining a growing club of airports worldwide offering similar programmes:

• Delhi Airport, India
• Istanbul Airport, Turkey
• Denver International Airport, United States (CATS Programme)
• San Francisco International Airport, United States (Wag Brigade)

These initiatives have seen great success in engaging passengers and improving airport ratings globally.

Travelling Soon? Here Is How To Interact With A Therapy Dog Safely

Do's:

• Feel free to approach the dogs if you are comfortable.
• Approach the dog calmly and allow it to become familiar with you.
• Follow the handler's instructions at all times.
• You may take a quick photo, but avoid using flash.
• Keep a safe distance if you have allergies.
• Always supervise children during interactions.

Don'ts:

• Do not force interactions; only engage if the dog approaches willingly.
• Do not feed or offer treats to the dog.
• Avoid sudden movements or loud noises around the dogs.
• Do not pull their ears or tail, or attempt to pick them up.
• If you feel uncomfortable, maintain your distance while respecting others who wish to engage.

Activities With Therapy Dogs To Brighten Your Airport Experience

Passengers can take part in supervised activities such as:

• Play Fetch: Gently toss a small toy for the dog to retrieve.
• Selfie Zone: Capture a photo in designated areas alongside the dogs.
• Gentle Petting Sessions: Spend a few soothing minutes petting the dogs under the handler's guidance.

Did You Know? Animal-Assisted Therapy In India Is Growing

Therapy dogs are not limited to airports. Across India, trained therapy animals are being used in schools, elder care centres, and hospitals to offer emotional support and companionship. Organisations such as Animal Angels Foundation have been working to promote animal-assisted interventions, and initiatives like RGIA's are helping to build public awareness around their benefits.