New recruits join the Canine Crew at Aberdeen International Airport
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Two new four-legged friends have joined the Canine Crew at Aberdeen International Airport.
Poppy, a working cocker spaniel, who was named Scotland’s Best Dog in the BBC Scotland programme in 2021 is one of the new additions.
Owned by Olympic swimmer Hannah Miley (MBE), the pooch made a huge impression on the show competing in challenges showing recall, bond and agility skills.
Another new addition to the Canine Crew is Rita, a long-haired standard dachshund and owner Ruth.
Both have had Canine Crew collectibles made in preparation to taking on the role at the north-east’s largest transport hub.
The cards contain information about the dogs including their breed, favourite things to do and some of their dislikes.
Passengers can collect the card from the owner of the dog when they are visiting Aberdeen International Airport.
The schedule of visits can be found on the website: Therapet Dogs Programme | Aberdeen Airport
A QR code is also part of the collectible allowing passengers to directly donate to Canine Concern Scotland Trust.
The airport’s Therapets project, a partnership with the trust, is designed to reduce anxiety associated with travelling through interaction with therapy dogs and has now been internationally acknowledged as industry leading.
Fraser Bain, project manager at Aberdeen International Airport and Diane Wood, lead representative and trustee from Canine Concern Scotland Trust brought the initiative to the terminal which won the National Geographic Traveller’s Award for innovation in 2019.
A popular addition to the airport the Canine Crew visit all areas of the terminal including the "re-tail" and departures lounge cheering up anyone who has had a "ruff" day.
Fraser Bain, project manager at Aberdeen International Airport, said: “It has been great to welcome both Poppy and Rita to our airport as they find their paws as part of our beloved Canine Crew.
“We thank every volunteer who takes part in this initiative providing a positive experience for passengers who meet them."
Diane Wood, lead representative and chairwoman of the board of directors of Canine Concern Scotland Trust, said: “This brings our total Canine Crew to 20 and we are delighted to welcome both Poppy and Rita to the team.
“Our collectibles have proved very popular since launching in April with young and old both enjoying finding out more about the dogs.”
The Canine Crew also played a key role in welcoming visitors to Aberdeen when the Sports Personality of the Year Awards came to the Granite City.
