Find P.E.T.S. at the Myrtle Beach International Airport

Recently, I was flying across the country and was finding the experience rather stressful. The security line was on high alert and people were grumpy. When I arrived at the end of my first leg and entered the terminal, I was greeted by a greyhound and its handler. Any worries I had evaporated right then and there, especially when I was invited to pet the dog. This handler had no idea that I owned a greyhound and I needed a little puppy love so badly.

This was my first encounter with therapy dogs who visit airports to bring stress relief and love to travelers. I’ve been infatuated with this concept ever since and am extremely excited about P.E.T.S. (Pups Easing Travel Stress), the therapy dog program at Myrtle Beach International Airport.

What a wonderful gift for our autism families, or for anyone who could use a calming moment while traveling. I wanted to learn more, so I reached out to the Myrtle Beach International Airport team for more information.

About the P.E.T.S. Program

What was the inspiration for starting this program?

The airport team continually looks for ways to improve the customer experience at MYR. Airports can be stressful environments, and the travel process can be especially challenging for travelers with disabilities or those who experience anxiety while flying.

The airport originally planned to start a therapy dog program in 2019, but those plans were put on hold during the pandemic. In 2021, a local volunteer with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs reached out to the airport, and the P.E.T.S. program was launched.

How are dogs selected?

P.E.T.S. volunteer teams are certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Prospective volunteers also complete a trial visit at Myrtle Beach International Airport so the airport team can observe the dog’s temperament and make sure the busy airport environment is a good fit.

Today, the program includes a variety of therapy dogs and volunteer handlers who visit the terminal and spend time with travelers waiting for their flights.

What do the therapy dogs do?

The P.E.T.S. dogs and their handlers volunteer at the airport to help make the travel experience a little less stressful. Travelers may encounter the dogs throughout the terminal, where they can stop for a visit, a pet or simply a little canine companionship before their flight.

Because the program is staffed by volunteers, the dogs' schedules and availability vary.

How are therapy dogs different from service animals?

Therapy dogs do not perform specific tasks for an individual with a disability in the same way a trained service animal does. Their role is to provide comfort, companionship and stress relief through interaction with travelers.

Service animals accompanying their owners are permitted throughout Myrtle Beach International Airport.

Can the dogs help children who are feeling overwhelmed?

Every dog has a different personality and comfort level, and handlers approach interactions carefully to make sure both the dog and traveler are comfortable.

Sometimes simply seeing a friendly dog can provide reassurance during a stressful moment. When appropriate, handlers can also help children and families understand the best way to approach and interact with their dog.

How can families feel comfortable interacting with the dogs?

P.E.T.S. teams complete therapy dog certification and additional evaluation before volunteering at the airport. Handlers are trained to watch their dog's body language and recognize when the dog may need space or a break.

Travelers should always follow the handler's guidance when interacting with a therapy dog.

What other resources are available for travelers who need a quieter environment?

Myrtle Beach International Airport also offers a Quiet Room in the baggage claim area for travelers with special needs who need a place to destress.

MYR provides additional accessibility services and accommodations for travelers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, visual paging for deaf and hard-of-hearing passengers and information for travelers with service animals.

Learn more about accessibility at Myrtle Beach International Airport.

Does P.E.T.S. accept donations?

Myrtle Beach International Airport does not accept donations for the P.E.T.S. program. The Alliance of Therapy Dogs is a nonprofit organization and accepts donations to support its work.

I have so much gratitude for the handlers, dogs and MYR. They understand the need to make traveling less stressful for everyone. What a fantastic treat for all of us! Woof!