MIA's New K-9 Ambassador Spreads Love For Valentine's Day
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – In honor of Valentine's Day, Miami International Airport has turned to man's best friend for some extra tender love and customer care with Casey, MIA's new K-9 Ambassador.
Casey, a 69-pound Golden Retriever and trained therapy dog, and her owner Liz Miller, who is an MIA Volunteer Ambassador, are walking MIA's terminal two days a week in search of passengers in need of a "helping paw" or maybe just some snuggle time with Casey.
"Casey makes everyone feel wonderful," said Liz Miller.
Casey, decked out in a customized "Pet Me" uniform and airport ID badge, will assist Liz in providing directions and interacting with passengers to put them at ease during their travel experience.
"Casey walks in the concourse and immediately stress, anxiety, frustration, boredom, it rolls off," said Miller. "What returns is people smiling, that wall is lifted."
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That's certainly true for passenger Lisa Dayton.
"It makes us feel more secure, definitely," said a smiling Dayton.
Airport officials said Casey's canine touch will be especially helpful during a busy February expected to draw large crowds through MIA for events like the Miami International Boat Show, the Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival and the Coconut Grove Art Show.
In just a few test runs, Casey has already been a hit with our passengers," said Dickie Davis, Miami-Dade Aviation Department Terminal Operations and Customer Service Division Director. "Casey and Liz are two of our 80 very special Volunteer Ambassadors, and we're excited about this new customer service initiative."
In addition to her "Pet Me" uniform and ID badge, Casey also has her own business cards and website.
"She brings joy and happiness where ever she goes," said Miller.
