Pet owners know that the mere presence of a furry friend can melt stress away. That’s why the Denver International Airport has a team of therapy dogs to ease travelers’ anxiety – and a cat just joined the ranks!
The Canine Airport Therapy Squad – or CATS – has just welcomed it’s first real feline to the group. The program consists of over 75 certified therapy dogs, including almost 40 different breeds, who rotate 2-hour shifts to calm the nerves of flying commuters. Now, cat lovers will be thrilled to know that a cuddly kitty will be available for snuggles, too!
DIA’s Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) hasn’t had a cat as a member. Until today, when Xeli will be introduced. https://t.co/QBunHTlrWQ pic.twitter.com/2v3oMqUJwc
— Ben Miller (@DBJBen) September 29, 2017
That face! Xeli was a big hit today. Look for her around the airport beginning Oct. 13! #dencats pic.twitter.com/Qyj6exISYk
— Denver Int’l Airport (@DENAirport) September 29, 2017
Xeli, pronounced Zee-Lee, is a lovable therapy cat that will be happy to offer head-bumps and purrs for feline fans and that prefer a more subdued type of stress relief.
It looks like she’s pretty eager about her new gig!
Xeli is pumped up to join the DEN team. Come meet her at 2 p.m. in the center of the terminal! #DENCATS pic.twitter.com/kZifXRN4k1
— Denver Int’l Airport (@DENAirport) September 29, 2017
“We’re really excited to have (Xeli). We know there are a lot of people who love cats just as much as people who love dogs,” said airport spokeswoman Daria Serna in a story by The Denver Post. “It will be great have her on the concourse visiting people and making people smile. She loves to meet people.”
If you aren’t able to come out right meow Xeli will be roaming the concourses beginning Oct. 13! #dencats pic.twitter.com/y6y0pk0im3
— Denver Int’l Airport (@DENAirport) September 29, 2017
Xeli is in the house! #therapycat pic.twitter.com/vFiCrIj11R
— Denver Int’l Airport (@DENAirport) September 29, 2017
If you’re passing through the Denver airport and want to make sure Xeli or any of her friends are available, check out the airport’s Twitter page. There, they make daily announcements on which members of the CATS team will be there!
Therapy kitty!!! Such soft paws aaaaa Welcome to DEN, Xeli~ @DENAirport pic.twitter.com/AUTzNOSHYH
— Miso@TAROT! (@puppyShaker) September 29, 2017
You’re a good kitty, Xeli!
.@DENAirport‘s therapy dog program — code name CATS — gets its first actual cat. Read more and see photos of Xeli: https://t.co/QHcw3fLpfp pic.twitter.com/oKIAxVX3KM
— The Denver Post (@denverpost) September 30, 2017
Would visiting a therapy animal make you more relaxed before a flight? Do you think more airports should have programs like this? Tell us in the comments below!
(h/t: The Denver Post)