Hoppy Travels: Therapy Rabbits Welcome Travelers at Bradley Airport
Two giant therapy rabbits, Bun Jovi and Berlin, are helping travelers feel more at ease at Bradley International Airport through the airport's Bradley Buddies animal therapy program.
Article Summary
- Bradley International Airport's animal therapy program now includes two giant therapy rabbits, Bun Jovi and Berlin, who greet travelers in the terminal.
- The rabbits, certified through Pet Partners, are typically available on Monday and Friday mornings from about 4:30 a.m. to 7:30–8 a.m., and have gained popularity on Instagram.
- Launched in 2017 with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs, the program has expanded to include 21 certified therapy dogs alongside the bunnies, aiming to reduce passenger stress.
Traveling can be stressful for many families, but Bradley International Airport is helping ease passengers' anxiety through its animal therapy program.
The airport's newest therapy animals are Bun Jovi and Berlin, two giant rabbits that greet travelers as they make their way through the terminal.
Nicole Geib, owner of the rabbits, and Brian Spyros, a spokesperson for Bradley International Airport, recently spoke about the program and the growing popularity of the furry ambassadors.
The airport launched its animal therapy program in 2017 and has since expanded it to include the certified therapy rabbits.
"They travel around with me a lot," Geib said in an interview with WTNH. "I've done pet therapy with them for a while, so I reached out to Bradley International Airport."
Spyros said passengers of all ages, from young children to adults, enjoy interacting with Bun Jovi and Berlin while waiting for their flights.
Travelers can typically see one of the rabbits on Monday and Friday mornings from about 4:30 a.m. until 7:30 or 8 a.m.
As the rabbits have gained popularity, Geib also launched an Instagram page to share their adventures.
Animal therapy program
Bradley International Airport partnered with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs in August 2017 to bring certified animal therapy teams into the terminal on a regular basis, helping create a more enjoyable and relaxing travel experience for passengers.
Bun Jovi and Berlin, known as the Bradley Buddies rabbits, are certified through Pet Partners, an organization that registers therapy animals.
In addition to the rabbits, the airport's therapy program includes 21 certified therapy dogs. Each dog has an online profile highlighting its favorite treats, toys and personality.
Certified therapy animal handlers interested in joining the Bradley Buddies program can contact the airport at feedback@bradleyairport.com.
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