Volunteer Therapy Dog Program
A diverse group of Houston Airports Volunteer Therapy Dogs spotlight the city’s signature hospitality by greeting airport guests and comforting anxious travelers. Our therapy dogs volunteer at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport. Whether it’s a scratch behind their ear, a pat on their back or a cuddle, the Houston Airports Volunteer Therapy Dog Program is crucial to supporting the millions of passengers who visit Houston’s airports each year. Our team of dogs represent Houston, a pet-friendly community that’s also the most diverse city in the United States.
Each therapy dog offers a unique connection. The dogs wear bright red vests and blue bandanas, which encourage passengers to walk up and engage with the dogs and their handlers.
WATCH | HOUSTON AIRPORTS THERAPY DOGS WELCOME TRAVELERS TO HOUSTON
JOIN OUR TEAM:
Houston Airports is seeking trained therapy dogs registered with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, a national therapy dog registry. Handlers should be friendly, outgoing and passionate about connecting with people. Because Houston Airports Volunteer Therapy Dogs ease anxiety and comfort passengers, volunteers shifts may include holidays and peak travel seasons, like the summer.
What handlers/applicants need:
- A friendly, outgoing personality
- Ability to approach and communicate with people from different backgrounds
- Must be at least 18 years old
- A background check is required for approval to work within secured areas of our airports
- Some walking inside airport terminals may be required
Benefits include:
- Free parking privileges
- Discounts on airport retail and dining
- Appreciation luncheons
MEET OUR THERAPY DOGS
CONNECT WITH US:
For questions and/or to apply to the program, please call 281-233-1920 or email hasvolunteers@houstontx.gov
Don’t have a therapy dog but want to volunteer with Houston Airports? Click here to learn about our Volunteer Ambassador Program
Meet our HAS volunteer program manager
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Manager of Volunteer Outreach Initiatives |
Ella Ghica has a passion for people and understands and values the importance of genuine human connection. Ella understands the power of a smile and difference hospitality and kindness can make in someone’s day. 5-Star customer service creates the opportunity to positively influence how people experience and remember their visit to Houston’s airports and the City of Houston.
Among Ella’s favorite quotes are words shared by Maya Angelou, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Ella joined the Houston Airports Volunteer Program in March 2008 and began coordinating some volunteer initiatives. In September 2022, Ella became responsible for all volunteer outreach initiatives for Houston Airports.
“I take my role as Manager of Volunteer Outreach Initiatives very seriously,” said Ghica. “I strive to do all that’s possible to encourage those who may be shy and hesitant, but also want to volunteer and engage with the airport community.”
Ella finds joy in watching volunteers grow and flourish in their role, which is so crucial to the Mission and Vision of Houston Airports. “Together, our team of Volunteer Ambassadors are changing lives while spreading the word about great Houston Airports and its team awesome!”
To those considering becoming a Houston Airports Volunteer Ambassador, Ella shares this:
“Come join our team. Your life will change! The interaction with airport guests cultivates personal satisfaction and pride. You will make new friends, have so much fun and find purpose in offering helpful advice to those who need it.”