Therapy Llamas and Alpacas: Bringing Comfort and Joy to Stressed Travelers
Air travel can be a stressful experience, from navigating crowded airports to dealing with flight delays and anxieties. However, Portland International Airport has found a unique way to help calm and comfort anxious travelers – with the help of therapy llamas and alpacas. These gentle and engaging animals are part of the airport’s animal therapy program, and their presence is bringing smiles and peace of mind to countless passengers.
The Calming Presence of Therapy Animals
Animal therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, has been gaining recognition for its potential to provide emotional and psychological benefits. Studies have shown that interaction with animals can lead to reduced anxiety, improved mood, and a general sense of well-being. While therapy dogs are perhaps the most well-known example, other animals, such as llamas and alpacas, are now being explored for their therapeutic potential.
At Portland International Airport, Beni the llama and Captain Jack the alpaca are the stars of the show. These woolly creatures, along with their handlers from Mountain Peaks Therapy, visit the airport every few weeks to offer travelers a much-needed respite from the stresses of air travel.
The Unique Qualities of Llamas and Alpacas
Llamas and alpacas may seem like unusual choices for therapy animals, but they possess several qualities that make them well-suited for this role. According to Shannon Joy, co-owner of Mountain Peaks Therapy, these animals are typically “very herd-oriented” and “feel safer amongst their peers.” This social nature allows them to remain calm and comfortable in busy environments like airports.
Additionally, Joy explains that only a select few llamas and alpacas have the right temperament and confidence level to excel as therapy animals. It takes a special animal to tolerate being petted, hugged, and approached by strangers without becoming anxious or aggressive. The handlers at Mountain Peaks Therapy work closely with local breeders to identify these rare individuals and provide the necessary training to prepare them for their therapeutic roles.
The Benefits of Animal Therapy at Airports
The presence of therapy llamas and alpacas at Portland International Airport has been met with overwhelming positivity from travelers and airport staff alike. Numerous studies have highlighted the potential benefits of animal-assisted therapy, including:
Stress reduction: Petting and interacting with a therapy animal can help lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and promote relaxation.
Improved mood: The simple act of engaging with a friendly animal can release feel-good hormones like oxytocin and dopamine, elevating mood and promoting a sense of calm.
Distraction from anxiety: For those with travel-related anxieties, the novelty and charm of interacting with a therapy llama or alpaca can provide a welcome distraction, allowing them to shift their focus away from their worries.
Social interaction: Therapy animals can serve as a conversation starter, encouraging positive social interactions among travelers and airport staff, fostering a sense of community and connection.
Expanding the Reach of Animal Therapy
While the use of therapy llamas and alpacas at Portland International Airport is a unique and innovative approach, it is part of a broader trend in recognizing the potential benefits of animal-assisted therapy. Hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other public spaces are increasingly exploring the integration of therapy animals into their programs.
As more research is conducted on the effects of animal-assisted therapy, it is likely that we will see a greater variety of species being utilized for therapeutic purposes. From horses and rabbits to birds and even reptiles, the possibilities are vast, and the potential benefits are promising.
Conclusion
The introduction of therapy llamas and alpacas at Portland International Airport is a heartwarming example of how innovative thinking and a willingness to explore unconventional approaches can positively impact people’s lives. These gentle creatures, with their calming presence and endearing personalities, are bringing joy and comfort to countless travelers, helping to alleviate the stresses and anxieties associated with air travel.
As the popularity and understanding of animal-assisted therapy continue to grow, it is exciting to imagine the potential for more airports and public spaces to embrace similar programs. By harnessing the power of human-animal connections, we can create environments that prioritize mental well-being and foster a sense of tranquility and joy, even in the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern life.