Therapets visit Tyler Pounds Regional Airport to comfort travelers
TYLER, Texas (KLTV) - Travelers coming and going from Tyler Pounds Regional Airport got a surprise from some four-legged furry friends. With it being a busy travel day, Therapet dogs and their owners greeted people this morning in an effort to reduce holiday travel stress.
Those coming through the airport all seemed to be on a mission to make their flights. Then they saw the dogs and a smile and curiosity set in.
“Aww look at you,” one woman said as she pet one of the dogs.
Student Annie Newman is traveling back to Arizona for school.
“I had no idea, no this was a beautiful surprise. I love dogs so much. I just came back from my friend’s house cause she has cats and dogs and all sorts of animals. It melts my heart. I absolutely love these dogs so much. They’re so sweet,” Newman said.
Therapet’s stated mission is to utilize specially trained and certified animals to promote health, hope and healing. Owner Tina Allbritton and her Australian Shepherd, Hart, were busy sharing joy.
“Travel during the holidays can be stressful enough and then with the weather like it’s doing up here and up north and everything, I know there’s a lot of people who are thinking, ‘Am I going to make my connections? Are my flights going to be delayed or anything?’” Allbritton said. “So, we’re hoping to start their trip off with just a little bit of destressing by seeing the dogs and visiting with them.”
Owners handed out trading cards to guests that had a background on each of the dogs. Newman said she flies often, but it can be stressful each time.
“You never know what’s going to happen, especially with this weather, especially in Dallas. I’m like, ‘Is Dallas going to get canceled? Am I going to have to come back here and drive?’” Newman said. “This was definitely an amazing surprise. This was so sweet. I had such a good time.”
Therapets also make visits to hospitals, schools and Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities.
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