Traveling can be chaotic, especially during the holidays, but Portland International Airport found a unique and fluffy way to ease jetsetters’ stress. Therapy llamas Beni and Prince were brought in to comfort travelers, offering an unusual but highly effective form of stress relief. The concept of therapy animals isn’t new, but therapy llamas are a delightful twist that brings joy to many.
Portland’s Unique Approach
Screenshot from “Emotional support llamas roam Portland airport” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: ABCNews
Portland International Airport is known for its quirky and creative initiatives, and therapy llamas are a perfect fit. Travelers during the holiday season found the llamas to be a source of instant joy and relaxation. Portland International Airport partners with various therapy animal programs throughout the year to help passengers de-stress. The presence of the llamas brought smiles and comfort to travelers and airport staff alike. The llamas were festively dressed with antler headbands, glittery halters, tinkling bells, and poinsettia-adorned wreaths. The llamas’ visit was widely covered in the media, highlighting the innovative approach to traveler comfort.
Meet Beni and Prince
Screenshot from “Emotional support llamas roam Portland airport” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: ABCNews
Beni and Prince are the two 400-pound llamas brought in to comfort travelers at the airport. These llamas belong to Mountain Peaks Therapy Llamas & Alpacas, a farm dedicated to providing therapeutic experiences. Therapy animals, including dogs and now llamas, play a crucial role in providing emotional support in stressful environments. The presence of therapy llamas encourages positive interactions among travelers, reducing stress and anxiety.
Unique and Memorable Experience
“Emotional support llamas roam Portland airport” Source: YouTube, Uploaded: ABCNews
The llamas’ visit quickly went viral, capturing the hearts of many online. For many travelers, meeting the llamas was a unique and memorable part of their journey. Given the positive response, the airport may continue this tradition in the future. The initiative also engages the local community, showcasing Portland’s welcoming and unique spirit.
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
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