RST introduces pet therapy program

Travelers heading in and out of Rochester International Airport (RST) can expect to be greeted with wagging tails.

This week, the airport launched a new pet therapy program aimed at giving visitors — young and old — the opportunity to interact with friendly canines during peak travel periods.

The initiative, dubbed "Caring Tails," comes as an increasing number of airports, hospitals and universities are embracing pet therapy as a means for counteracting stress.

While scientific evidence on the benefits of animal therapy remains murky, airport officials say they are already seeing the program paying off — through smiles and laughter

“It has been amazing to see the positive responses as therapy dog teams have started visiting with passengers and employees at RST,” said Tiana Rossow, the airport's communication manager.

According to RST, volunteers wanting to participate in the program must be registered with a recognized dog therapy organization. The dog must belong to the handler and be at least 2 years old.

To learn more about the program, head over to Dogs Downtown on Sunday, Aug. 6. Representatives from Caring Tails will be on hand during the event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Cover photo: Screenshot / Courtesy RST