Therapeutic pig introduced at San Francisco International

San Francisco International Airport in California has introduced America’s first airport therapy pig as part of its Wag Brigade program.

LiLou, a Juliana-breed pig, promises to surprise and delight travelers at San Francisco Airport with her winning personality, charming costumes and painted nails. LiLou loves performing tricks for her audience, and also visits several other facilities in San Francisco including senior centers and hospitals.

Launched in December 2013, the airport’s Wag Brigade brings trained animals to the airport terminals to make travel more enjoyable. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) certifies all animals through its Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) program prior to walking airport terminals. Carefully selected for their temperament and airport suitability, animals wear vests labeled ‘Pet Me!’ to encourage interaction with airport guests.

Christopher Birch, director, guest experience, San Francisco Airport, said, “Since its launch in 2013, the Wag Brigade has become a favorite amenity among travelers. With the addition of LiLou, we can look forward to more moments of surprise and delight for guests at our airport.”

Dr Jennifer Henley, AAT manager, San Francisco SPCA, said, “We have more than 300 dog, cat and rabbit volunteer teams, but LiLou is the first pig in our program. It’s wonderful to witness the surprise and delight that LiLou brings to people during therapy visits.”