1. Introduction
Explore how Alex the Great, a giant therapy rabbit, assists travelers at San Francisco International Airport in alleviating pre-travel anxiety.
2. Alex the Great’s Role
Learn about the Wag Brigade program that integrates trained therapy animals into the airport environment.
3. A San Francisco Legend
Uncover the unique charm and history of Alex, the 28-pound Flemish Giant rabbit.
When it comes to calming pre-travel anxiety, a giant rabbit may not always be first in mind. However, at the San Francisco International Airport, Alex is helping to relax the nerves of uneasy passengers.
A 28-pound Flemish Giant rabbit named Alex the Great is the newest addition to the airport’s Wag Brigade, a program that brings therapy-trained animals into the airport’s terminals. Identifiable by their “Wag Brigade” vests, these animals patrol the airport for stressed-out passengers and help calm them down with some quality one-on-one time.
Moreover, Alex is already a bit of a San Francisco legend after having appeared at San Francisco Giants and Golden State Warriors games in their respective jerseys. He tends to make an impact wherever he goes. As a Flemish Giant, Alex is one of the largest breeds of rabbit on the planet, renowned for its friendly personality and laid-back demeanor.
Alex “is known for being docile and patient in being handled, attributes well-suited for work on the Wag Brigade,” according to the airport. He is the first bunny to join the Wag Brigade and will be making several appearances at the airport each month, presenting an excellent opportunity for travelers to catch a glimpse of him in action.
The airport’s “Wag Brigade” was formed in 2013 to assist travelers dealing with anxiety. Consequently, the brigade has expanded to include 16 different animals. In addition to Alex, travelers could meet one of many adorable dogs, or even a pig named LiLou. All of the therapy animals are certified by the San Francisco SPCA’s Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) program.
The brigade took a 20-month break from service due to the COVID-19 pandemic but returned to the airport in October 2021. Before resuming service, all animals were recertified in their therapy program by the SPCA.
For more information about the animals—along with opportunities to follow their adorable therapy sessions on Instagram—visit the Wag Brigade web page.
