PAWS and Relax

Our therapy dog program bringing comfort, smiles, and a little extra joy to your airport experience. Meet our furry friends and enjoy a moment of calm before your next flight.

Helping travelers unwind before takeoff

PAWS & Relax

Travel can be exciting, but airports can also bring a little stress along the way. The PAWS & Relax Therapy Dog Program at Hilton Head Island Airport gives travelers the opportunity to enjoy a friendly visit with one of our volunteer therapy dog teams while waiting for their flight.

Our handlers and therapy dogs are here to provide comfort, calm, and plenty of smiles throughout the terminal — adding a little extra Lowcountry hospitality to your journey.

Our Team

Meet Our PAWS & Relax Teams

Our PAWS & Relax teams are made up of trained therapy dogs and dedicated volunteer handlers who enjoy spending time with travelers throughout the airport.

If you see one of our teams in the terminal, feel free to stop and say hello. Whether you are a nervous flyer, traveling with children, or simply missing your own four-legged friend at home, our therapy dogs are always happy to offer a friendly paw and a little extra comfort.

Breaker Rose

Golden Retriever

Breaker Rose, affectionately known as Breaker, is a fun-loving Golden Retriever from Hilton Head. She loves swimming, playing with children, and enjoying her favorite treats (especially tomatoes!). With her sweet personality and playful spirit, Breaker is always ready to make new friends and brighten someone’s day.

Ellie

Australian Shepherd Mix

Ellie is a sweet, playful pup who loves greeting people with her favorite stuffed animals. She enjoys playing ball, chewing on her Busy Buddy toys, and hoping for a tasty snack. More than anything, Ellie loves being close to her people. If she’s not playing, you’ll likely find her cozily resting right on your feet!

Greta

German Shepherd

Greta is a people-loving pup who excels in advanced obedience and agility. Since beginning her therapy dog journey at just one year old, she has brought comfort and joy to those she visits. When she’s not spreading smiles, Greta enjoys swimming, playing fetch, and being the loving big sister to Vinnie.

Jack

Black Labrador

Jack is a certified therapy dog who brings comfort and joy to assisted living residents, hospital patients, and young readers across Hilton Head. Adopted from Leader Dogs for the Blind in 2024, he loves making a difference in his community. This energetic, affectionate big baby brightens every room he enters.

Maddy

Mixed

Maddy is a sweet mixed-breed pup who was rescued in October 2016. She loves soaking up the sunshine, taking relaxing walks along the beach, and enjoying her favorite treat: cheese! With her laid-back personality and love for the outdoors, Maddy is always happy to enjoy a little sunshine and spread some joy.

Maggie May

Goldendoodle

Maggie May is a people-loving Goldendoodle who has been charming everyone since puppyhood. She loves giving hugs and kisses, fetching the morning newspaper, and playing with her half-sister, Molly Malone. She also enjoys watching for squirrels and making new friends wherever she goes!

Martina

Great Pyrenees

Martina was rescued as a stray during an Indiana blizzard at just 10 months old. Today, she serves as an Alliance of Therapy Dogs therapy dog and HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response dog, bringing comfort and companionship to hospitals, schools, hospice patients, and communities through her extensive therapy work.

Vinnie

German Shepherd

Vinnie is a gentle giant with a big heart for people. Rescued in 2017, he has experience in advanced obedience, scent work, and rally sport. As a therapy dog, Vinnie loves bringing comfort to others. Whether enjoying car rides or spending time with people, he makes every moment special.

Willow

Weimaraner

Willow is a certified Alliance Therapy Dog who loves people and brings calm, comfort, and companionship wherever she goes. When she’s not visiting others, she enjoys hunting birds, running on the beach, playing fetch, taking long walks, and spending time with her dog park friends. At home, she’s always nearby.

Get in Touch

Have questions about the PAWS & Relax Therapy Dog Program at Hilton Head Island Airport? Contact Marlene Myers to learn more about the program, our therapy dog volunteers, or opportunities to get involved.

Phone: (843)-929-7967

Email: tracy.myers@bcgov.net