Meanwhile, Krista Maloney of the SFSPCA told us that the SFO approached them about starting the program when it officially launched in December 2013. “SFO had noticed other airports starting therapy programs and wanted to do something similar.”

Maloney confirmed that animals help reduce stress: “Several studies have shown that interacting with animals can improve mood, decrease stress, lower blood pressure, and possibly increase cardiovascular health.”

“All of the animals in the Wag Brigade are part of the SF SPCA’s Animal Assisted Interactions Program. They are trained and certified therapy animals who are owned. At the end of their Wag Brigade shift, they go home with their guardians. You can learn more about our Animal Assisted Interactions program here.”