05/15/2017

May 15, 2017 — On Saturday, 5/13, Circle Tail brought approximately 20 people who are either a volunteer foster or recipient of 12 Circle Tail service dogs and two trainers to CVG. The participants worked with the service dogs so they could get acquainted with the airport experience including security screening and progressing to the gate areas.

Elements of training, included:

• Fosters and recipients with their dogs went through TSA security screening to figure out how best to progress through the system with their dog.
• Dogs were socialized with moving sidewalks, trams, food court, restrooms, escalators and service animal relief area. 
• Individuals and dogs went onto an aircraft to understand moving down the aisle and seating.
• They then returned to baggage claim to become familiar with luggage carousels and handling. 

“It is a pleasure to work with all the people who make CVG Airport a great place to fly,” said Marlys Staley, Executive Director, Circle Tail. “We appreciate the opportunity to provide this unique experience to our service/hearing dogs in training and for our service/hearing dog teams who may be flying in the future.”

“Our vision is to make travel through CVG an unforgettably positive experience for all of our travelers, and it’s a privilege to assist with this program that familiarizes service dogs with the airport to ensure a smooth and memorable experience for everyone,” said Candace McGraw, chief executive officer, CVG.

Circle Tail is a Cincinnati non-profit organization that trains and provides service animals for people with disabilities at no cost (www.circletail.org). This event would not be possible without the support of the TSA and Delta Air Lines.