United Airlines Cuddles Away Holiday Stress with Comfort Dogs

Photo via Twitter

Crowded airports and delayed flights are undeniably stressful, especially around the holidays.

Thankfully, United Airlines is doing its best to provide a much-needed reprieve for passengers at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport and Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport, by surprising them with some of man's best friends.

Our golden friends will be spreading #HolidaySpirit starting this weekend at ORD and IAH. Stop by and say hello. pic.twitter.com/O4KWjvJnLH

— United (@united) December 19, 2014

"I think it's cool. For a dog lover, it gives you a sense of home. I had a dog growing up and she was part of the family," said a passenger via ABC 13.

"I'm glad that our flight isn't delayed, but if it was, this would be so uplifting," said another traveler. "They're so sweet!"

The comfort dogs aren't just for dog lovers, though, as their mere presence is sometimes enough to help relieve stress for anxious passengers. 

Here's a look at Therapy Dogs Incorporated's comfort dog Moe in Houston:

Spreading some #HolidaySpirit at IAH Houston with @united and this little guy Moe #FlyerFriendly #pettherapy pic.twitter.com/MxtgJBeM2s

— Elizabeth Ginter (@elizabethginter) December 20, 2014

The cuteness hasn't been exclusive to Texas, as LCC K9 Comfort Dogs provided pooches for travelers to meet and pet in the Windy City:

LCC @K9ComfortDogs partner with United to Comfort travelers pic.twitter.com/KeLYZjncQi

— SLC (@CubfanSLC) December 21, 2014

Comfort dogs at #OHare = best flight ever. Great marketing @united #HolidaySpirit #AirBud #CarryOn pic.twitter.com/bBMTb1D2bw

— Kernooches (@kernooches) December 21, 2014

The unique program began over the weekend and is expected to continue through Christmas Eve at both airports. 

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