Press release from Asheville Airport Authority:
Asheville, N.C. – One year ago, Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) kicked of a new program called Paws for Passengers. Ambassador teams – special human handlers and their trained pups – visit the airport every day, sharing affection, smiles, wagging tails and calming moments for people at the airport.
The airport is celebrating the success of this program – and the amazing volunteers who make it happen – with a first birthday party in the terminal.
“The Paws for Passengers program has been a great success at the airport, truly bringing an element of surprise and delight for passengers and visitors,” said Tina Kinsey, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at AVL. “We started with about ten teams, and the program has doubled in just one year. Not only do passengers love interacting with the dogs, but our amazing volunteer teams enjoy being a part of such a unique airport program.”
All pet therapy dogs are trained and certified by either Therapy Dogs, Inc. or Pet Partners, both national organizations committed to training, testing and certification, regulating, insuring and registering pet therapy dogs and their handlers so they are prepared to visit public places.
Photos of a celebration held July 13 courtesy of the Asheville Regional Airport.
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