Therapy Pig At SFO Eases Travel Jitters

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Thousands of travelers are passing through San Francisco International Airport this week for the Thanksgiving holiday. With airport security lines, schedules and other pressures, some travelers end up with frazzled nerves. That's where LiLou and her wagging tail come in — she's a therapy pig.

The 5-year-old Juliana pig is part of the airport's "Wag Brigade," mostly made up of dogs. All wear vests that say "Pet Me!"

And from kids to adults, business travelers to pilots, people are happy to slow down long enough to pet the pig.

LiLou's human is Tatyana Danilova, who says the pig helps people snap out of their zone. "People are very happy to get distracted from the travel, from their routines — whether it's, they're flying on their journey, their vacation or work," Danilova said.

LiLou complements her vest with a pilot's cap and painted toenails.

According to SFO, all members of the "Wag Brigade" are therapy animals certified by the San Francisco SPCA and are always accompanied by handlers.