Are “Therapy Pigs” the Newest Airport Addition?
Photo: Hollie Latham/PhotoPlus Magazine via Getty Travel Features Therapy Pigs
Pigs may not be flying, but they’re wandering the airport. At least, that’s the case at San Francisco International Airport.
LiLou, a Juliana breed pig, waddles through the terminals of SFO to give a much-needed pick-me-up to overly anxious travelers. The little porker is part of an airline program called the Wag Brigade, a group of some 300 cats, dogs and rabbits whose job is to ease stressed flyers.
The brigade, which formed in 2013, are trained and certified Animal Assisted Therapy animals, carefully selected for their temperament. Dressed in “Pet Me!” vests, the collection has become an airport favorite in its three years of existence.
LiLou is the first swine to join the team. Her “winning personality”—and ridiculous cuteness—earned her a top spot on the Wag Brigade.
Tom is a travel writer, part-time hitchhiker, and he’s currently trying to imitate Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? but with more sunscreen and jorts.