Richmond International Airport collaborated with Helping Howls on Friday to provide service dogs with hands-on training for air travel. The dogs and their handlers practiced navigating the airport from the parking lot to the gate. Activities included checking in at the ticket counter, walking through the terminal, going through TSA, and waiting at the gate.
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Serena Smalley, a handler with Helping Howls, emphasized the importance of this training. "It can be a little overwhelming for some dogs. So that’s why it’s really important for us to take our time and work on training the dogs before we come to travel. That way, when we do travel, they’re used to it. They know what to do," she said.
Troy Bell, a spokesman for Richmond International Airport, noted that the airport setting provides unique training opportunities. "They have literally done the whole journey. And you really can’t replicate what we have at the airport in a training environment off airport," he stated.
During the training, the dogs also experienced various distractions such as crowds, luggage, and escalators to acclimate to the busy airport environment. Each dog has a specific role tailored to their handler. Smalley's dog, Cairo, is trained to provide medical alerts and assist with certain tasks, including helping to regulate her blood pressure.
The dogs also visited the new service animal relief areas located inside the concourse. Bell stated that this training initiative is an ongoing effort by the airport. "We really are committed to having the airport be an enjoyable, welcoming, accessible place for all travelers in the community. And this is just one step in that direction," he said.