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Last updated:Nov 7, 2024 10:59 IST
Dressed in warm coats with ‘I heart PDX’ neckerchiefs and pom-pom headbands, the llamas help create a relaxed atmosphere at Portland International Airport.
One in fifteen llamas has the social skills to survive in a busy environment. (Photo credits: Instagram)
Animals can bring immense joy to pet-lovers, and many workplaces around the world have introduced cats and dogs to help employees relax. Following this idea, Portland International Airport has taken a unique approach to improving passenger comfort. The airport has hired a herd of therapy llamas to roam the grounds, offering peace and joy to stressed travelers. To make it even more fun, the llamas are dressed in striking costumes.
Dressed in warm coats with ‘I heart PDX’ neckerchiefs and pompom headbands, the llamas help create a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere at the airport. Portland International Airport has teamed up with Mountain Peaks Therapy Llamas and Alpacas to secure service from these friendly creatures. .
In addition to lama therapy, passengers can also enjoy beautiful views while waiting at the airport. The area has access to natural light and is surrounded by living trees. The llamas were provided by a nonprofit organization run by a mother-daughter duo: Lori Gregory and Shannon Joy.
They bring the animals to the Portland airport and provide relaxation services to the passengers. Those who want to reduce anxiety and stress can play with the llama to clear their heads before or after a trip. In addition to offering pets, Gregory and Joy offer services such as head scratching and cuddling with their five llamas and six alpacas.
These furry professionals can mainly be seen wandering around the terminals at Portland Airport. Authorities have also appointed some therapy dogs, which can also be a source of smiles and joy. They are all part of the ‘just to make you smile’ initiative, aimed at making air travel less stressful.
The lamas do not perform any specific task. They simply have a calming presence and provide comfort to people experiencing anxiety and other mental issues. “It’s just pure joy. Travelers’ faces say it best. Being in nature relieves stress,” airport spokesperson Allison Ferre told NPR, as reported by NDTV.
According to Shannon Joy, choosing the right therapy llama from a herd is not as easy as it seems. In her experience, only one in fifteen llamas has the social skills to survive in a crowded environment.
News viral This US airport offers llama therapy to ease your travel stress