Paw-fect Fit | Houston Airports continues to expand its Volunteer Pet Therapy Program

Strategically positioned inside our airports, therapy dogs offer comfort and ‘Houston-friendly’ hospitality as they help our 5-Star customer service team welcome guests to Houston.

July 20, 2023

Strategically positioned inside our airports, therapy dogs offer comfort and ‘Houston-friendly’ hospitality as they help our 5-Star customer service team welcome guests to Houston. 

A diverse group of Houston Airports Volunteer Therapy Dogs spotlights the city’s signature hospitality by greeting airport guests and comforting anxious travelers. Therapy dogs volunteer at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport. Whether it’s a scratch behind their ear, a pat on their back or a cuddle, the Houston Airports Volunteer Therapy Dog Program is crucial to supporting the millions of passengers who visit Houston’s airports each year. Our team of dogs represents Houston, a pet-friendly community that’s also the most diverse city in the United States.  

“Our team of therapy dogs can make all the difference in a passenger’s day,” shared Ella Ghica, Volunteer Program Manager for Houston Airports. “It’s incredible to watch the faces of passengers - of all ages - light up as our dogs wag their way through the terminal. Dogs have a keen sense of emotion. It’s almost as if they can spot an anxious traveler in the crowd. Our k-9 volunteers know just how much love and attention to give to each passenger, which makes each connection unique and memorable. 

Each therapy dog offers a unique connection. The dogs wear bright red vests and blue bandanas, which encourage passengers to walk up and engage with the dogs and their handlers. 

Each dog is trained and registered with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, a national therapy dog registry. Handlers are friendly, outgoing and passionate about connecting with people. The dogs and handlers often participate in special events and Houston’s airports, like holiday parades. Click here to learn about how you and your dog can volunteer with Houston Airports.