ISTANBUL — Five new hires are selflessly roaming the halls of one of many world’s busiest transportation hubs, hoping to supply a paw-sitively stress-free journey expertise for anxious passengers.
Meet Istanbul Airport’s remedy dogs — all the time prepared to supply help with snuggles, stomach rubs and sloppy kisses.
The Associated Press caught up with Kuki and Alita, two of the dogs participating within the pet-friendly airport’s new pilot venture geared toward easing stress and anxiousness amongst vacationers.
All four-legged members of this system are licensed remedy dogs, professionally skilled and conditioned to consolation people.
The “Therapy Dog Team” has been on obligation since late February following months of preparation and intensive coaching, studying desensitization to distracting stimuli, like sounds and folks.
“We have to ensure that they are safe and they are 100% adapted to all environments,” stated Kadir Demirtas, Istanbul Airport’s buyer expertise supervisor.
Kuki, a Lagotto Romagnolo, an Italian retriever breed, is group captain. He works exhausting to please however likes his breaks and typically performs hooky.
That’s OK, nevertheless.
The group’s veterinarian stated every canine’s temperament dictates their hours on the job every day.
“They walk around the airport led by their handlers who are also responsible for their care,” stated Volkan Arslan.
The dogs, who’re airport staff with official badges and uniforms, have a set schedule and work throughout peak journey hours, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Alita, a border collie, is Kuki’s teammate. Her intense gaze and dedication to her handler are putting, as is her means to assuage and calm nerves.
“We are always surrounded by people who are constantly petting her,” stated Volkan Gul, Alita’s devoted handler, including that she helps them loosen up.
Airport officers stated they have already got plans to broaden the pilot venture following preliminary optimistic suggestions from vacationers.
