Bentonville Airport Offers Therapy Dogs for Travelers
The Runway Rover program connects passengers with certified therapy dogs at XNA to help reduce travel anxiety.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Air Travel
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The Runway Rover program at XNA provides passengers access to certified therapy dogs while waiting for their flights. Volunteers and their canine companions spend time at the airport greeting travelers to help ease stress and flight anxiety.
Why it matters
The program is designed to create a more relaxing environment for air travelers. By facilitating positive interactions with therapy animals, the airport aims to alleviate the common tensions associated with air travel.
The Runway Rover program features certified therapy dogs and their handlers who interact with passengers throughout the airport. Volunteers also distribute specialized trading cards featuring the individual therapy dogs to travelers.
The players
XNA
XNA is the commercial airport serving the Bentonville, Arkansas area.
The details
Passengers waiting for flights at XNA can engage with certified therapy dogs brought by volunteers. These interactions aim to comfort travelers as they navigate the terminal before their departures.
Timeline
The Runway Rover program is currently ongoing at XNA.
Travel Outlook
The Runway Rover program mirrors a documented trend identified by the Airport Council International's guidelines for passenger experience enhancement programs. It follows a growing industry pattern of implementing wellness-focused services to improve the passenger experience at airports.
Travelers passing through XNA can look for volunteers and therapy dogs in the terminal to assist with pre-flight stress. Engaging with these animals provides a simple way to improve the waiting experience before boarding.
The takeaway
Traveling with pets or dealing with anxiety can be challenging, and utilizing airport comfort programs can significantly improve your mood. Look for these therapy teams in the terminal to take a short, calming break before your next flight.
Further reading
Learn more about local transit options in our Air Travel section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Home Page.
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Do you find the presence of therapy dogs in airports helps reduce your travel stress?
