YVR animal therapy program now includes two ponies 

Photo:https://news.yvr.ca/

July 22,2025

RED FM News Desk

Vancouver International Airport is expanding its animal therapy program by introducing therapy ponies on a trial basis. 

In a news release, YVR announced that it is the first airport in Canada to bring ponies into the terminal as a “unique approach” to supporting passenger well-being. The program, known as the Less Airport Stress Initiative, originally began with therapy dogs. 

Starting today, two ponies—Magic and Tinkerbell—will be available to offer emotional support to travelers dealing with anxiety. The Less Airport Stress Initiative (LASI) will remain a permanent feature at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), reflecting ongoing commitment to making  travel experience as smooth and pleasant as possible. 

LASI is a unique program that brings specially trained ambassador dogs from the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program into the terminal. These are not just regular dogs—they’re certified therapy animals trained to offer comfort and emotional support to travelers dealing with stress or anxiety. Thanks to the program’s overwhelming success and the positive impact it has had on passengers, LASI is now a permanent part of the YVR experience.