Hyderabad Airport Launches Therapy Dog Program to Ease Travel Stress: A Pawsitive Step for Flyers

Updated on August 4, 2025

In a heartwarming and innovative initiative, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Hyderabad, has introduced a Therapy Dog Program to help passengers manage travel anxiety and enhance their airport experience. Launched in collaboration with Animal Angels Foundation, this program brings trained therapy dogs to the terminal to offer comfort, affection, and a sense of calm to weary and anxious travelers.

🐾 A First-of-its-Kind Wellness Initiative in Indian Airports

Hyderabad Airport is among the first in India to roll out a structured canine-assisted therapy program at an airport terminal. The program features specially trained dogs who interact with passengers in designated relaxation zones. These furry companions are proven to lower stress levels, reduce heart rates, and bring smiles to tired faces—especially helpful during long layovers or flight delays.

✈️ How It Works: Calm Companions at the Terminal

The therapy dog teams—consisting of a trained dog and a certified handler—roam the departure and arrival lounges during peak travel hours. Passengers are welcome to pet, hug, or simply sit beside the dogs to enjoy their calming presence.

Key benefits for travelers:

• Reduction in travel anxiety and stress
• Improved emotional well-being
• A fun and interactive distraction for kids and families
• Positive impact on elderly and solo travelers

🐶 Meet the Therapy Dogs

The participating dogs are mostly Labradors and Golden Retrievers—breeds known for their gentle nature and sociability. All dogs undergo intensive behavioral training and health checks to ensure they are fit to interact in a busy airport environment. The handlers, too, are trained to identify signs of stress or discomfort in both dogs and passengers.

🌍 Global Trend, Local Touch

While therapy dogs are common in airports across the U.S., Canada, and parts of Europe, Hyderabad Airport is pioneering this thoughtful concept in India. It marks a new chapter in passenger-focused airport services, blending international best practices with local hospitality.

🧘‍♂️ Beyond Therapy: A Holistic Travel Experience

RGIA’s new initiative is part of its larger commitment to creating a stress-free and traveler-friendly environment. The airport already offers services like nap pods, yoga rooms, and spa lounges—making it a holistic hub for mental and physical wellness.

📢 Travelers React: “Best Surprise Ever!”

Social media is already buzzing with photos and reels of therapy dogs comforting travelers. From children hugging the dogs before boarding to frequent flyers calling it the “best surprise ever,” the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The campaign has quickly become a viral travel moment, especially on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

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Conclusion: A Welcome Woof for Indian Aviation

With the launch of its therapy dog program, Hyderabad Airport is not just managing air traffic—it’s managing emotional well-being, one tail wag at a time. As this pioneering effort takes flight, other Indian airports may soon follow suit, bringing more smiles, comfort, and companionship to the skies.