Skip to Content

Therapy Cat Named Duke Ellington Helps with Travel Anxiety in San Francisco Airport

Duke with his pilot uniform.
Duke with his pilot uniform. Source: YouTube. Uploaded: CatsVSDog.

Imagine an orphaned cat named Duke Ellington, whose story took a heartwarming turn when he joined the Wag Brigade at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The Wag Brigade, a diverse team of therapy animals primarily made up of dogs, also includes a rabbit and a pig. Duke’s presence has been celebrated widely, marking an exciting new chapter for the program. This special feline is already making a significant impact, bringing joy and comfort to travelers.

Duke’s Rescue and Adoption Story

Duke after adoption.
Duke after adoption. Source: YouTube. Uploaded: CatsVSDog.

Duke was found starving on the streets of San Francisco in 2010 when fortunately, he was adopted by a loving family who quickly saw his potential. A 5-year-old girl in the family formed a special bond with Duke and convinced her family to get him certified as a therapy animal. This decision set Duke on a path to help others.

Becoming a Certified Therapy Animal

Duke was certified through the San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. His training equipped him to provide comfort and support to people in need. Duke has since been helping humans deal with stress, illness, and hardship with his gentle presence, which often brings smiles to many faces.

Duke’s Role at the Airport

Duke with his pilot uniform.
Duke with his pilot uniform. Source: YouTube. Uploaded: CatsVSDog.

Duke visits terminals to greet passengers getting ready to board their flights. He is dressed in an adorable pilot uniform, making him hard to miss. Travelers are often delighted by his presence, and many take the opportunity to interact with him, making their travel less stressful and more enjoyable.

The Impact of the Wag Brigade

The Wag Brigade was launched in 2013 and has made a remarkable positive impact at SFO. Carefully selected animals, chosen for their temperament and suitability, interact with travelers to reduce stress. The program has been successful in creating a more pleasant airport experience. Duke’s addition to the team has only enhanced its success.

Positive Reactions from Travelers

Duke with a traveler.
Duke with a traveler. Source: YouTube. Uploaded: UCSFMedicalCenter.

Travelers’ reactions to Duke are overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the comfort and joy he provides. His presence helps ease travel stress, making the experience more pleasant for everyone and making him a beloved figure at SFO. Duke’s friendly nature and calming presence significantly reduce anxiety. For many, meeting Duke is a highlight of their travel experience, bringing a sense of calm and happiness to the bustling airport environment.

A Unique Addition to the Team

Duke’s addition to the Wag Brigade marks a unique expansion of the team. As the first cat, he brings a different kind of charm and comfort. His presence showcases the diversity of therapy animals and their impact. Duke’s role highlights the importance of including various animals in therapy programs.

Encouraging Future Therapy Animal Programs

Duke sleeping by a window at home.
Duke sleeping by a window at home. Source: YouTube. Uploaded: CatsVSDog.

The success of Duke Ellington and the Wag Brigade encourages other airports to adopt similar programs. Therapy animals can significantly enhance the passenger experience. Positive feedback from travelers supports the expansion of such initiatives. More airports may soon have their own teams of therapy animals.

Conclusion: The Joy of Duke Ellington

Duke Ellington has brought immense joy and comfort to countless travelers at SFO, reducing stress and making their journeys more memorable. As a cherished member of the Wag Brigade, he exemplifies the profound positive impact therapy animals can have. Duke’s presence transforms ordinary travel days into unforgettable experiences filled with warmth and happiness. His gentle nature continues to brighten the lives of everyone he meets, making each day at the airport a bit more special.

YouTube video
Source: youTube: CatsVSDog