SKOPJE, Republic of North Macedonia: Nervous flyers and stressed passengers have a furry respite at North Macedonia's main airport, thanks to Dino the golden retriever's presence in the departure lounge.
Better known by his nickname “zen dog”, the four-year-old pup makes regular stops at Skopje's airport to “provide a more relaxing and pleasant travel experience”, according to the facility's management.
“We are aware that travelling can be stressful,” said Maja Bajalska Georgievska, communications manager of the capital's airport.
To help calm the anxious, Dino makes multiple passes by the airport's boarding gates, allowing passengers to pet the curious canine and enjoy a moment of zen or snap a selfie.
“Even when he's not approached by travellers, he tries to interact with them,” said Dino's trainer Vesna Kiskovska.
“He's a golden retriever, a dog who loves making friends.”
The programme is the first of its kind in the region, according to TAV Airports Holding, the operator of Skopje's airport.
Aerophobia — or a fear of flying — is common among travellers, according to various studies.
Dogs, however, seem to possess a unique ability to help curb stress in humans.
According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine: “assistance dogs can make patients with anxiety disorders feel safer, they facilitate social activity and reduce the feelings of isolation and loneliness”.
Since November, Dino has visited Skopje's airport dozens of times, usually during busier periods to help calm travellers.
“A lot of people are very nervous or anxious about flying, and dogs are soothing,” said Sophie Francen, a 25-year-old Dutch tourist. “It's an excellent idea.”
