Vaidehi Bhargava
Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) recently reintroduced its unique “Pawfect” program, featuring a team of nine specially trained emotional support dogs designed to bring joy and ease to travelers. This initiative, which was temporarily halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has returned to help passengers at Terminal 2 manage travel-related anxiety by providing soothing interactions with friendly, therapeutic dogs. The “Pawfect” program is available every Friday to Sunday, from 3 PM to 11 PM, in key areas such as the Domestic Level 3 departure and post-immigration zones.
This team includes a variety of breeds, from a playful Golden Retriever to a calm Maltese, a rescued Husky, a Shih Tzu, a Lhasa Apso, and a Labrador. Each dog has been specially trained to recognize and respond to human emotions, offering comforting support to travelers. The presence of these dogs not only brightens the airport’s atmosphere but also fosters social interaction among passengers, who often share stories and memories about their pets, enhancing the sense of community. According to a CSMIA spokesperson, the dogs provide a calming experience that helps reduce pre-flight stress, especially for passengers who may find air travel challenging.
Since its initial launch in 2015, CSMIA’s “Pawfect” initiative has been a first-of-its-kind program in India, setting a standard for other airports. The program highlights the positive impact that animal-assisted therapy can have in high-stress environments like airports. Passengers have praised the initiative, with many, including children and individuals with special needs, finding comfort in spending time with these dogs. The airport’s program has received a warm response online, with social media users applauding this thoughtful approach to enhancing the passenger experience.
The dogs, provided by organizations like Fur Ball Story, are selected for their friendly nature and ability to interact gently with people of all ages. This initiative represents a broader trend toward incorporating pet therapy into public spaces to provide mental health benefits. By continuing to run the “Pawfect” program, CSMIA hopes to create a welcoming environment that promotes well-being and reduces travel anxiety among its passengers