by Donald Wood
Last updated: 3:00 PM ET, Mon December 5, 2016
San Francisco International Airport has hosted a trained therapy animal program since 2013, but the facility has added its first pig to the group.
According to the Mercury News, the Animal Assisted Therapy program-dubbed the Wag Brigade-formed in December 2013 and consists of over 300 cats, dogs and rabbits. The animals are trained by the San Francisco SPCA, and chosen "for their temperament and airport suitability."
The Juliana breed pig is named LiLou and is believed to be the first therapy pig in a United States airport. Using costumes and her friendly personality, the soon-to-be two-year-old pig will be found around the airport greeting people and making passengers feel comfortable.
The official Twitter account of San Francisco International Airport shared a video and images of LiLou:
LiLou and the rest of the Wag Brigade all wear vests that read "Pet Me," and passengers are encouraged to interact with the animals as a way to sooth nerves and help those with fears associated with flying.
In addition to her work at the airport, LiLou also performs her acts and shares love at senior centers and hospitals.
"Since its launch in 2013, the SFO Wag Brigade has become a favorite amenity among travelers," San Francisco International Airport director of guest experience Christopher Birch said in a statement. "With the addition of LiLou, we can look forward to more moments of surprise and delight for guests at our airport."
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