An estimated 40% of people experience some level of fear of flying, and around 2.5% suffer from a clinical phobia of boarding an airplane. For anxious travelers passing through Portland International Airport (PDX), relief often comes in an unexpected form — a llama named Beni and an alpaca called Captain Jack.
These two camelid cousins are part of PDX’s unique animal therapy program, designed to reduce stress and bring comfort to travelers navigating one of life’s most nerve-wracking experiences.
Therapy Animals at the Airport
Beni and Captain Jack work with Mountain Peaks Therapy, a farm-based organization that provides animal-assisted therapy across Oregon. Every few weeks, the duo travels from their farm to PDX, where they roam the terminals offering calm, cuddles, and unforgettable encounters.
Although still filled with busy security lines and crowded food courts, PDX recently underwent a major redesign focused on connecting travelers with nature — and these two fluffy ambassadors are now a major highlight.
“Being in nature is a stress reliever,” said Allison Ferre, spokesperson for the Port of Portland. “The therapy animals are one way we deliver that experience for travelers.”
Why Llamas and Alpacas Make Great Therapy Animals
According to Shannon Joy, co-owner of Mountain Peaks Therapy, it’s rare for llamas and alpacas to have the level of confidence and calm temperament required for therapy work.
“Beni and Captain Jack have a unique mix of independence, curiosity, and emotional intelligence,” Joy explained. “That’s what makes them so special.”
The program began in 2007, when Joy and her business partner Lori Sackett started bringing their animals to:
- Senior living communities
- Schools
- Disability support groups
Over time, their gentle herd became popular for public events — and eventually, international travelers.
The Science Behind Animal-Assisted Therapy
While most research on animal therapy focuses on dogs and horses, the emotional response to llamas and alpacas is undeniable.
“I think dogs elicit the same emotion,” said traveler Lori Sackett, who was moved to tears after meeting the pair. “But isn’t this a million times more magnificent?”
Especially during high-stress travel seasons like holidays, these animals play a major role in:
- Lowering anxiety
- Improving mood
- Creating positive memories
- Reducing sensory overload
“People Just Melt When They See Them”
Joy says her favorite moments happen in the terminal hallways.
“You’ll see people with blank stares rushing to baggage claim,” she said. “Then they turn a corner, see a llama, and their entire body just melts in excitement.”
It’s a reaction repeated hundreds of times — surprise, laughter, selfies, and instant emotional relief.
Trading Cards, Photos, and Smiles
Beni and Captain Jack even have their own trading cards, featuring:
- Their names
- Personality traits
- Fun facts
Travelers are encouraged to collect the cards, take photos, and interact with the animals — making the airport experience not just tolerable, but genuinely joyful.
More Than Just Cute: A New Way to Travel
In a world where airports are often associated with stress, delays, and crowds, Beni the llama and Captain Jack the alpaca represent something different:
A reminder that connection, nature, and kindness can exist even in the busiest places.
And sometimes, the best therapy doesn’t come in a pill or a playlist —
it comes with fur, hooves, and a very long neck.