Hyderabad, August 3, 2025 — Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), managed by the GMR Group, has officially launched a Therapy Dog Program aimed at reducing travel anxiety and boosting passenger well-being.
The initiative features four certified Toy Poodles, each trained for therapeutic interaction and supervised by professional handlers reporterstoday.com+14NewsMeter+14Telangana Today+14. Positioned at key touchpoints in both domestic and international departure areas, these dogs offer voluntary petting, gentle play, and emotional comfort between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM, from Friday to Monday Telegraph India+2Hyderabad Aero+2NewsMeter+2.
According to RGIA officials, the program aims to “offer calming and joyful interactions,” easing travel-related stress and creating a welcoming environment Mid-day+7Telegraph India+7NewsMeter+7. Passengers have reportedly responded positively, calling the presence of therapy dogs “thoughtful” and “heartwarming.” One traveler remarked: “I was so happy to see them. A truly wonderful initiative” Hyderabad Aero+5Telegraph India+5NewsMeter+5.
To ensure safety and consent, the dogs only engage with passengers who willingly approach them. Handlers guide interactions, prevent potential stress triggers, and ensure both passenger and canine welfare NewsMeter+2Hyderabad Aero+2Telegraph India+2.
At this stage, the program is in a pilot phase, and RGIA is evaluating feedback and operational feasibility before considering expansion The Siasat Daily+7Telegraph India+7Deccan Chronicle+7.
The move aligns with a larger global trend in airports toward incorporating animal-assisted wellness initiatives. Similar programs in New Delhi’s and Mumbai’s airports have gained traction in recent years to enhance passenger comfort and reduce anxiety, especially for vulnerable groups such as children and neurodivergent travelers EBNW.
With over 29.5 million passengers served in the last financial year, RGIA continues to explore ways to improve traveller experience and offer inclusive support services Telegraph India+2Telegraph India+2NewsMeter+2.
What Passengers Should Know
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dogs | Four certified Toy Poodles |
| Handlers | Professional, trained in canine behavior |
| Location | Domestic & international departure zones |
| Timing | Friday to Monday, 3 PM – 7 PM |
| Interaction Rules | Voluntary only; no forced petting or feeding |
| Program Stage | Pilot phase with potential expansion |
| Objective | Reduce anxiety, boost mood, enrich airport experience |
The dogs are stationed post‑security at departure zones, in areas like the retail lounge and boarding gates. Activities may include gentle petting, fetch play, and “selfie zones” under handler supervision Mid-day+7ThePrint+7Telangana Today+7Reddit+10Hyderabad Aero+10Telegraph India+10EBNW+2NewsMeter+2NewsMeter+2. Important guidelines include not startling the dogs, not feeding them, and keeping distance if allergic Hyderabad Aero.
Program evaluators will gather passenger feedback and operational insights before considering scaling up the initiative in future.
