Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has reintroduced its “Pawfect” programme involving nine emotional support dogs as a stress buster for passengers at Terminal 2. The initiative was suspended during the COVID-19 outbreak.
“#MumbaiAirport is thrilled to announce the return of its wildly popular ‘Pawfect’ initiative. Ready to melt the travel stress away and turn the airport experience into a fun-filled adventure,” the official handle of Mumbai airport announced on X.
The nine trained dogs, including a Golden Retriever, a Maltese, a Shih Tzu, a Lhasa Apso, a Labrador, and a rescued Husky, will be at Terminal 2’s departure areas, including domestic Level 3 and post-immigration sections, from Friday to Sunday between 3.00 PM and 1.00 PM.
“From Friday to Sunday, between 3pm & 11 pm, these lovable emotional support companions will be waiting to greet travellers at Terminal 2. Get ready to be charmed and comforted by these furry ambassadors of happiness before embarking on your journey from our #GatewayToGoodness,” the handle wrote in the X post.
The viral video shows the pack of furry animals interacting with several flyers, including kids. Many social media users hailed the initiative. “Absolutely terrific initiative! One that would impact positively on the neural space of the dogs and passengers alike, but also help reduce chaos at airports,” a user wrote. “Such a fantastic initiative by Mumbai Airport! Bringing in emotional support dogs to make travel less stressful and more joyful is a beautiful idea,” another user commented.
“That’s a great initiative..plz consider adding our Indie breed…they are super cute and smart as well,” a third user wrote.
According to The Hindu, the initiative aims to encourage social interactions among travellers.