SHANNON airport is marking ‘Dog-Friendly Ireland Day’ this Friday by hosting two puppies from Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind.
The airport facilitates training for five-month-old ‘Pixie’ and ten-month-old ‘Mac’ to provide lifetime assistance to people with visual and other challenges.
“Many passengers with autism or vision impairment now travel with service dogs and we support them through familiarisation tours and training programmes for these fantastic animals,” says airport managing director Andrew Murphy.
Pixie and Mac’s visit to the airport will be co-ordinated by airport staff who will take the pups through the various stages of the passenger experience which exposes them to an environment they wouldn’t experience on a daily basis.
“Two years ago we opened Europe’s first airport sensory room in our departure lounge. The sensory room has been tailored to provide a soothing place away from the activity of a busy airport. Customers who wish to use the room can avail of special caps and wristbands to ensure they can be identified by staff and receive special attention.
Last week Shannon Airport added another string to its canine credentials, when the airport was designated as an approved entry points for pet dogs, cats and ferrets entering Ireland from non-EU/EEA countries, by the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed.
The public can follow the dogs this Friday on Shannon Airport social channels.
by Tom McCullough
