At Norfolk International Airport, every dog has its day. And beginning this week, travelers flying through the region’s commercial travel hub can enjoy regular opportunities to interact with a trio of four-legged friends who’ll come onsite to ease nerves or otherwise brighten people’s journeys under ORF’s Welcome Waggin’ guest experience initiative.
Welcome Waggin’ features trained animals and handlers certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, a Wyoming-based organization with a 30-year history of testing, certifying, registering and insuring those who volunteer with their dogs in animal-assisted activities. The dogs that will appear at ORF will arrive with their local handlers who have successfully met Alliance standards.
The Welcome Waggin’ team is initially comprised of Pixie, a gentle Husky mix with a calming presence; Rocco, a cheerful Hound mix who loves meeting new people; and Arlo, a playful Yellow Labrador Retriever mix who brings energy and warmth to every interaction. Additional dogs will join the ORF lineup over time. Their schedules at ORF will vary based on individual availability.
The introduction of a pet therapy program is the latest facet of an ongoing effort to bolster the traveler experience at ORF, which earlier this year earned a 4-Star Regional Airport Rating from London-based Skytrax, a widely respected aviation research firm. Upcoming enhancements also include three additional gates with larger seating areas; a consolidated car rental facility; refreshed stores and restaurants; as well as a modernized checkpoint and international arrivals area. Learn more about these ongoing airport improvements by visiting TransformORF.com.
