In Case You Haven't Heard…

Abstract

An airport in Oregon is trying to ease nervous flyers' concerns by providing them with access to an unusual animal therapy program, Business Insider reported Nov. 4. Portland International Airport says it has partnered with Mountain Peaks Therapy to bring llamas and alpacas into its terminals every few weeks, hoping to alleviate some of the stress associated with air travel, according to NPR. The farm, based in Ridgefield, Washington, has five llamas and six alpacas, which it says are certified to interact with passengers in a calming manner. Its website says it costs about $650 an hour per animal. Studies have shown that animal therapy has minor to moderately positive effects on those struggling with an array of mental illnesses, though academics say more research needs to be done on its efficacy. According to UCLA Health, animal therapy can promote the release of mood-boosting hormones, lower anxiety, and provide a “happy distraction.” Most existing studies are focused on therapy dogs, which are increasingly being used in airports, such as London Stansted and Istanbul Airport.