Passengers at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad can now enjoy a unique way to ease travel stress: the airport has launched a Therapy Dog Program, making it the first major airport in India to offer certified therapy dogs—specifically toy poodles—to help travelers feel calmer and happier. The program, which began in July 2025 and expanded in early August, is already drawing attention for its focus on passenger well-being and mental health.
The Therapy Dog Program is currently in its pilot phase, with four certified toy poodles and their professional handlers stationed at key points in both domestic and international departure areas. These friendly dogs are available Friday through Monday, for four hours each day, during the busiest travel times. Passengers can take part in gentle petting sessions, play fetch in a special area, or snap a photo in the dedicated selfie zone. The goal is simple: to reduce anxiety, boost mood, and create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone passing through the airport.
How the Therapy Dog Program Works
Travelers do not need to book in advance or pay any extra fees to join in. The therapy dogs are located in clearly marked zones within the terminal during operational hours. Professional handlers supervise all activities, making sure both the dogs and passengers are safe and comfortable. After spending time with the dogs, passengers can receive a digital “Therapy Dog Certificate” as a fun memento of their experience.
To keep everyone safe and happy, airport authorities have set out some simple guidelines:
- Approach the dogs calmly and follow handler instructions
- Do not feed, startle, or handle the dogs roughly
- Supervise children closely at all times
- Passengers with allergies should keep a safe distance
The dogs only interact with travelers who want to participate, and they get regular rest breaks to ensure their well-being. The program is managed by the GMR Group, which operates Rajiv Gandhi International Airport.
Why Toy Poodles?
Toy poodles were chosen for the Therapy Dog Program because of their gentle nature, intelligence, and small size. These dogs are easy to handle in busy environments and are known for their friendly, calm behavior. Each dog is certified and trained to work with people of all ages, making them ideal companions for nervous or stressed travelers.
Official Support and Statements
Airport authorities and the GMR Group have made it clear that the Therapy Dog Program is part of a larger effort to make air travel less stressful and more enjoyable. “We want to reduce anxiety, boost mood, and create a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers,” a spokesperson for the airport said. The handlers are certified professionals, and the dogs are carefully trained to remain calm and friendly, even in crowded or noisy settings.
No changes to government regulations were needed for the program, as it fits within existing airport security and safety rules. This means the program could be easily adopted by other airports in India if it proves successful.
Positive Impact and Early Feedback
Since its launch, the Therapy Dog Program has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from passengers. Many travelers have shared their experiences on social media, saying that spending time with the toy poodles helped them feel less anxious and made their journey more enjoyable. News coverage has also highlighted the program’s success, with many calling it a much-needed addition to the airport experience.
The program currently covers both domestic and international departures, focusing on high-traffic periods to reach as many passengers as possible. If the pilot phase goes well, there are plans to expand the program to include more dogs, additional days, and possibly even arrivals.
Background and Global Context
The use of therapy dogs in airports is not new. Over the past decade, major airports in the United States 🇺🇸, Europe, and Asia have introduced similar programs to help travelers cope with the stress of flying. Hyderabad’s initiative is the first of its kind in India, reflecting a growing focus on mental health and passenger comfort in public spaces.
The idea for the program came in response to increased travel anxiety following the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people now feel more nervous about flying, and airports are looking for new ways to support their well-being. By bringing in therapy dogs, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is leading the way in making travel a little easier for everyone.
Policy Implications and Practical Effects
The Therapy Dog Program is designed to be inclusive and accessible. Clear guidelines help ensure that all passengers, including those with allergies or a fear of dogs, feel safe and comfortable. There are no extra steps or fees for participation, making it easy for anyone to join in.
Industry experts believe this program could set a new standard for airports across India. If the pilot phase is successful, other airports may follow suit, bringing therapy dogs to more travelers nationwide. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the program’s early success has already sparked interest from other airport operators and industry observers.
Expert and Stakeholder Perspectives
Mental health professionals and travel industry experts have praised the Therapy Dog Program for its evidence-based approach to reducing travel-related stress. Animal welfare organizations have also endorsed the use of certified, well-cared-for therapy dogs, as long as their welfare remains a top priority. The program ensures this by providing rest breaks and constant handler supervision.
Some stakeholders have suggested expanding the program to include more breeds or longer hours, depending on passenger demand and operational needs. The airport is open to these ideas and will use feedback from travelers to guide future decisions.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Expansion
The pilot phase of the Therapy Dog Program will be reviewed over the coming months. Passenger feedback and operational data will help decide whether to expand the program to arrivals, add more days, or bring therapy dogs to other airports managed by the GMR Group. The airport is committed to ongoing monitoring to ensure both animal welfare and passenger safety remain top priorities.
How to Get More Information
Travelers who want to learn more about the Therapy Dog Program can visit the official Hyderabad Airport website, where updates and announcements are posted regularly. Information is also available at airport information desks and through the airport’s social media channels.
Conclusion and Practical Tips
The Therapy Dog Program at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is a new and thoughtful way to help travelers feel more relaxed and welcome. If you’re flying through Hyderabad, look for the therapy dog zones and consider taking a few minutes to meet the toy poodles. Remember to follow the handlers’ instructions, supervise children, and enjoy the experience. With strong support from airport authorities and positive feedback from passengers, this program could soon become a model for airports across India and beyond.
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