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Therapy animal at SJC

Therapy Animal Volunteers

SJC partners with three certified organizations that train therapy animals and evaluate whether each human–animal team is a good fit for the airport environment. If you’re interested in volunteering with your animal at SJC, please reach out to one of the following organizations:  

  • Alliance of Therapy Dogs is a long-established organization dedicated to building a nationwide network of compassionate volunteers and their dogs, bringing smiles, comfort, and stress relief to people in a wide range of settings. Their mission is to support handlers and their therapy dogs so they can enjoy meaningful, positive experiences while providing comfort to others.

    All sizes and breeds are welcome, and the organization offers guidance throughout the certification process and orientation to various visit locations.

    To apply, contact Kyra Hubis. To learn more or apply, visit Alliance of Therapy Dogs' website.

  • First Responder Therapy Dogs leads the way in addressing the mental health needs of people – particularly first responders but also travelers, patients and students – by providing emotional support through the use of trained therapy dogs. Their mission is to provide this free service to as many communities as possible.

    Visit opportunities include fire stations, wildfire base camps, critical incident debriefs, hospitals, schools, camps and airports. First Responder Therapy Dogs joined the SJC Happy Tails program in 2024, offering ongoing support to airport passengers and staff.

    For questions, contact Lena Strickling. To learn more or apply, visit First Responder Therapy Dog's website.

  • Love on a Leash® is a nationwide volunteer organization that certifies qualified pet therapy teams to bring comfort, joy and emotional support to communities across the country. Their teams of pet-owners with their friendly dogs, cats and rabbits visit wherever they are invited to provide comfort, happiness, and healing.

    The Silicon Valley Chapter of Love on a Leash proudly serves San José Mineta International Airport, with additional chapters located throughout the United States.

    To learn more and apply, visit Love on a Leash®'s website.