OAK Introduces New Weekly Pet Therapy Program

San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport (OAK) is launching a new pet therapy program for passengers in partnership with Valley Humane Society’s Canine Comfort Pet-Assisted Therapy team. The weekly program, “Canine Comfort at OAK,” will begin on Monday, June 3, 2024.

“After the pleasure of hosting the volunteer teams from Valley Humane Society this past Valentine’s Day, we are excited to begin this new ongoing program for passengers at OAK,” says Craig Simon, Interim Director of Aviation at the Port of Oakland.

“Given the incredible impact pets have on our emotional well-being and the stress associated with travel, we think OAK is the perfect place for our Canine Comfort Pet-Assisted Therapy teams to work their magic," says Valley Humane President, Melanie Sadek.

The dogs and their volunteer owners will visit the airport every Monday between the hours of 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. The teams will make their way through both of OAK’s terminals during their visits. Travelers of all ages will be welcome to engage with the animals as they make their rounds. The canines will be decked out in their therapy pet vests. All therapy pets and their owners have passed Valley Humane Society’s certification process and training.

Valley Humane Society, located in Pleasanton, CA, brings animals to places other pets can’t go, sharing the unconditional love that pets offer and creating opportunities for people to experience the love of a pet. Sharing their own beloved companions, Valley Humane Society Canine Comfort Pet-Assisted Therapy volunteers team up with their dogs to improve the lives of others through the community by visiting medical facilities, schools, retirement homes, and airports. Interacting with animals can soothe travelers in moments of stress.

Passengers are encouraged to share their pet therapy experience on social media using the hashtag #CanineComfortAtOAK.