Portland Airport Gains Popularity Online For Its Therapy Liamas

The cutest therapy llamas who are here to brighten your day!

Damjan

• Published in Animals
• September 12, 2024

Traveling can be exciting, but dealing with long lines and security checks at the airport isn’t much fun. To improve the airport experience, Portland International Airport (PDX) has devised a clever idea: therapy llamas!

A few months ago, during the holiday season, Portland International Airport decided to shake things up by adding a couple of llamas to their usual team of support animals. Instead of having dogs, they brought Prince and Beni, two friendly llamas from Mtn Peaks Therapy Llamas & Alpacas farm near Portland.

These llamas visit the airport twice a month and quickly become the show's stars. Travelers can pet, hug, and feed them, which is a great way to take a break from the usual airport stress.

Allison Ferre, who works in media relations at PDX, said that seeing the llamas brings “pure joy” to travelers. You can see it on their faces when they interact with the llamas.

Prince and Beni are so popular that some people even plan trips to meet them. But the llamas can’t always stay at the airport; they’re there for short periods to ensure their health. Ferre mentioned that the llamas are only at the airport for as long as it’s good for them.

The airport shares its visit schedule on social media to help people catch a glimpse of the llamas. This way, travelers know when to visit the airport to see Prince and Beni.

Not every day you run into a llama at the airport, but when it happens, it’s almost sure to lift your spirits.

Portland International Airport introduced therapy llamas to allow visitors to relax by spending time with them, allowing people to hug, pet, and even feed the animals.

Since the animals can only stay at the airport for a limited time to ensure their well-being, not everyone will have a chance to see them.

Many travelers plan their flights to coincide with the times when the cute animals are at the Portland airport.

Experts noted that although therapy animals are usually dogs or cats, each species offers something unique and can be just as effective.

The experts highlighted that different therapy animals offer unique benefits, making them equally valuable in terms of therapeutic support.

Although therapy animals are essential, they differ from service animals and shouldn't be mistaken for the same.

Prince and Beni, residents of the Mtn Peaks Therapy Llamas & Alpacas farm, enjoy plenty of attention, whether posing for photos or receiving pets, hugs, and treats.

“Travelers’ faces say it best, "said the PDX media relations manager, Allison Ferre.

The commenters enjoyed discovering these events, with some sharing jokes while others were already considering their trip to PDX.

"They are lovely."

" What a great idea!"

The llamas have captured so much attention that their story has gone viral online. Portland International Airport’s decision to introduce therapy llamas has been a resounding success.

This creative idea has transformed the airport experience, making a regular travel day memorable and enjoyable. Prince and Beni have certainly left their mark, proving that a touch of creativity can significantly impact.

Damjan