In the wake of Hurricane Milton, Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) accelerated the launch of its new therapy dog program, MLB Comfort Canines. This initiative aims to provide emotional support and comfort to the traveling public.
Following Hurricane Milton, MLB successfully reopened on Friday, October 11, following a thorough inspection of runways and facilities. “While our terminal sustained damage, we are incredibly thankful to have avoided the worst impacts of Hurricane Milton, and our thoughts are with those most affected by the storm,” said Greg Donovan, executive director for Melbourne Orlando International Airport. “Our teams worked diligently to prepare the airport to welcome back travelers, and MLB’s new therapy dogs were a great addition to enhance the passenger experience.”
Even under normal circumstances, passengers can experience anxiety when it comes to flying. “Our new Comfort Canines program is part of MLB’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment and reducing travel stress,” shared Stephanie Betts, assistant director of airport operations and maintenance.
MLB partnered with Space Coast Therapy Dogs, Inc. to develop the program, initially planning for a debut later this month. However, with Hurricane Milton’s impact, plans were fast-tracked. A dedicated team of therapy dog handlers and their Alliance of Therapy Dogs-certified dogs were on-site to greet passengers as the terminal reopened.
“Therapy dogs have a unique ability to bring comfort and joy to those in need, especially in challenging situations,” said Rochelle Kenyon, Representative of Space Coast Therapy Dogs. “We are honored to partner with MLB and provide support to passengers.”
MLB’s 10 teams of Comfort Canines will be present at the terminal at various times each month to greet passengers at their departure gates. The roster includes:
- Jeff Arent and Breezy (Newfoundland)
- Danielle Dennison and Chrome (Standard Poodle)
- Janet Dematteis and Reggie (Biewer Terrier)
- Rochelle Kenyon and Dolly (Red Golden Retriever)
- Mary Lewis and Colby (Golden Retriever)
- Ed Mills and Sunny (Yellow Labrador Retriever)
- Jane Parliament and Harry (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)
- Heidi Peterson and Stevie (Newfoundland) and Sami (Golden Retriever)
- Rose Wilcox and Timmy (Cattle Dog/Papillon Mix)
- Vicki Wood and Harley (Papillon)
About Melbourne Orlando International Airport
Located on Florida’s Space Coast, Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) is Brevard County’s Hometown Airport, offering a convenient and stress-free travel experience. With air service from Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Allegiant Air, Sun Country and TUI, passengers can travel anywhere in the world in one stop or less. MLB proudly serves as the Coastal Gateway to Central Florida.
About Space Coast Therapy Dogs, Inc.
Since 1992, the mission of Space Coast Therapy Dogs has been to lift spirits, remove anxiety, provide companionship, and eliminate loneliness and despair with incredible volunteers and their companion dogs. Space Coast Therapy Dogs is a 501(C)(3), based in Brevard County Florida comprised of more than 30 volunteers, all nationally certified and insured by The Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD).
Featured image credited to Melbourne Orlando International Airport