Four-legged friends will now be a regular sight at Halifax Stanfield International (YHZ).
The Halifax International Airport Authority has launched the airport therapy dog program in partnership with St. John Ambulance. A group of seven dogs and their handlers will make regular visits to YHZ to meet and interact with travelers.
“We know airports can be stressful places for some people,” says Joyce Carter, president and CEO of HIAA. “This new partnership with St. John Ambulance will allow our passengers a chance to experience the physical and emotional benefits of a therapy dog and in turn, make their airport visit more enjoyable.”
The dogs will be in the airport on Tuesdays and Fridays starting at 1 p.m. Passengers are welcome to talk with the handlers, pet the dogs and help with walking the dogs on a leash.
The dogs in the program have all passed the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog evaluation. St. John Ambulance has more than 330 therapy dog teams across Nova Scotia and Price Edward Island and completed more than 4,300 visits last year.
“We are thrilled to have partnered with the Halifax Stanfield International Airport to bring the benefits of pet companionship into the facility,” says Steven Gaetz, St. John Ambulance NS/PEI CEO. “Our therapy dog teams will assist in comforting passengers who may be experiencing stress or anxiety while waiting to board their aircraft and to help lift the spirits of passengers. This partnership will significantly add to the excitement and experience of passengers and elevate the level of service at Halifax Stanfield International Airport.”
