Feeling nervous to fly? Hyderabad Airport introduces therapy dogs for comfort and support
While flying saves time during travelling, it also turns stressful at times. But maybe you can get some help when in Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, provided you love dogs. This is because in a move that blends comfort with care, Hyderabad Airport has introduced a unique stress-relief initiative featuring therapy dogs to help soothe anxious travellers. Under the newly launched programme titled ‘Paws and Peace’, two adorable toy poodles have taken up duty in the terminal, offering passengers a chance to pause, pet, and breathe easy.
You will find them beyond the security check in both domestic and international departure zones. They are trained therapy dogs, and are available for interaction four to six hours a day. Not to be afraid of, as they will always be accompanied by certified handlers. The dogs will be stationed near high-footfall areas such as retail zones and boarding gates—spots which have been carefully chosen to maximise visibility and spontaneous engagement.
The idea behind this program is simple yet powerful: to provide nervous flyers and overwhelmed travellers with a moment of joy, calm, and comfort amid the hustle of air travel. It might be a quick petting session, a few quiet moments, or just a playful round of fetch, passengers are welcome to interact with the poodles—if they choose to. Importantly, these interactions are entirely voluntary. The dogs will not approach anyone unless invited, ensuring that everyone can go about their journey undisturbed if they prefer.
To create memorable moments, dedicated selfie zones have also been set up near the therapy dog areas, where travellers can take pictures with their fluffy companions.
Read more: Black Leopard Safari in India: 8 Wildlife Sanctuaries You Must Visit
Airport officials stress that the welfare of the animals is as important as that of the passengers. The therapy dogs work for limited hours and receive adequate breaks to prevent fatigue or overstimulation. “Their presence is meant to be gentle and soothing, ideal for those who may be nervous flyers or simply in need of a break from the bustle of the terminal,” said an RGIA spokesperson.
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For those interested in interacting with the dogs, the airport has released a set of engagement guidelines. Passengers are encouraged to remain calm around the dogs, follow handler instructions, avoid loud noises or sudden movements, and ensure children are supervised. Those with allergies or phobias are advised to observe from a safe distance.
With ‘Paws and Peace’, Hyderabad Airport becomes one of the first in India to integrate pet therapy into its passenger experience—a small but heartwarming step toward making travel more human.
You will find them beyond the security check in both domestic and international departure zones. They are trained therapy dogs, and are available for interaction four to six hours a day. Not to be afraid of, as they will always be accompanied by certified handlers. The dogs will be stationed near high-footfall areas such as retail zones and boarding gates—spots which have been carefully chosen to maximise visibility and spontaneous engagement.
The idea behind this program is simple yet powerful: to provide nervous flyers and overwhelmed travellers with a moment of joy, calm, and comfort amid the hustle of air travel. It might be a quick petting session, a few quiet moments, or just a playful round of fetch, passengers are welcome to interact with the poodles—if they choose to. Importantly, these interactions are entirely voluntary. The dogs will not approach anyone unless invited, ensuring that everyone can go about their journey undisturbed if they prefer.
To create memorable moments, dedicated selfie zones have also been set up near the therapy dog areas, where travellers can take pictures with their fluffy companions.
Read more: Black Leopard Safari in India: 8 Wildlife Sanctuaries You Must Visit
Airport officials stress that the welfare of the animals is as important as that of the passengers. The therapy dogs work for limited hours and receive adequate breaks to prevent fatigue or overstimulation. “Their presence is meant to be gentle and soothing, ideal for those who may be nervous flyers or simply in need of a break from the bustle of the terminal,” said an RGIA spokesperson.
Read more: Exploring wild side of Goa: 5 wildlife sanctuaries that are a treat to the senses
For those interested in interacting with the dogs, the airport has released a set of engagement guidelines. Passengers are encouraged to remain calm around the dogs, follow handler instructions, avoid loud noises or sudden movements, and ensure children are supervised. Those with allergies or phobias are advised to observe from a safe distance.
With ‘Paws and Peace’, Hyderabad Airport becomes one of the first in India to integrate pet therapy into its passenger experience—a small but heartwarming step toward making travel more human.
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