RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond International Airport welcomed over half a dozen service dogs in training on Friday as part of an initiative organized by Helping Howls, a service animal training organization. This event provided handlers and their dogs an opportunity to navigate the airport environment ahead of their first actual flight.

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Handlers and their dogs experienced the entire airport process, including ticketing, TSA screening, and walking through the terminal, allowing the animals to acclimate to the sights and sounds associated with air travel.

Amanda Strukus participated in the training with her service dog in training, Clarke, who is being trained to help her manage anxiety. Strukus explained that the busy airport environment, characterized by lengthy waits and crowds, can be challenging. "She lays on me and helps bring my heart rate down. She can help find a chair for me when I get dizzy," Strukus noted about Clarke's expected assistance.

Reflecting on the training experience, Strukus expressed relief that this opportunity came before her first flight with Clarke. "I’m looking forward to having that as a part of my travel experience with her."

Strukus emphasized that their training extends beyond basic commands, focusing on public access skills and tests necessary for Clarke to become a fully-fledged service dog.

Troy Bell from Richmond International Airport pointed out that the airport environment offers a unique experience for the training process that cannot be replicated in a classroom. He stated, "You really can’t replicate in a training environment what we have at the airport. The unique sounds, all the people... familiarity with the environment is a key benefit for both the animals and their trainers."

Bell also mentioned improvements made at the airport to support service animals, including newly established indoor relief areas in both concourses designed specifically for these animals. The indoor facility in concourse A is already operational, while concourse B's permanent area opened last month.

Jordan Delmonico attended the training with her service dog, Nova, who is still early in her training. Nova is being prepared to assist Delmonico with epilepsy. Delmonico shared how having a service dog has dramatically changed her life. "Before I had a service dog, I didn't have my driver's license, I didn't live independently, and there was a lot of fear and anxiety about an episode happening. Now, with a service dog by my side, I have that extra reassurance."

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