Sep. 29—Officials at Detroit Metropolitan Airport have figured it out — dogs aren't just man's best friend, they are just about everybody's best friend.
With that in mind, a new program has been launched to bring a little joy and comfort to passengers experiencing stress or anxiety as they go through Metro Airport.
The airport's new Pet Therapy Program is bringing some friendly animal faces to those who could use a brief distraction or a little puppy love.
Introducing Simba, Eva, Kevin and Sunny.
They made their public debut this week.
Each one is expected to be a valuable benefit to children and adults as well.
"Through interaction with certified therapy dog teams, we hope to enhance the traveling experience and provide a stress reliever to all customers, including children and their parents," said Matt Virost, community outreach programs manager at the airport. "Dogs seem to have a calming effect on most people. I love watching the DTW dogs put smiles on people's faces."
All of the therapy dogs belong to the Fur Angels Pet Therapy Group based in Rochester.
This is the first time the Airport Authority has managed a pet therapy program.
According to Virost, the concept of putting this type of program in place was first discussed a couple of years ago.
In early 2020, a launch of this program was given serious consideration, but the COVID-19 pandemic put a hold on the plan.
All of the dogs, a great Dane, two golden retrievers, and a toy fox terrier, along with their owners, are volunteer team members and have completed their training.
They will work two hour shifts from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
"The DTW Dogs teams volunteer at various times throughout the week," Virost said. "Their top priority is interacting with passengers in the gate areas, but they will be in all areas of the airport. Currently, we do not have the ability to make appointments to see the DTW Dogs teams."
Excitement about the program is already growing.
Chad Newton, Airport Authority CEO, sees the program as a welcome new addition to what the airport has to offer customers.
"We want our customers to know they're supported," Newton said. "Through our DTW Dogs initiative, we're fairly confident every customer who crosses paths with our volunteers will leave smiling. After the last two years of the pandemic, our DTW team wants to lift everyone's spirits."
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