News Release - February 10, 2026
Y-Q-Cuties Comfort Pet Program Launches to Support Travellers
Travellers at Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) will soon be greeted by a few extra-friendly faces with the
launch of a new comfort pet program designed to reduce travel stress and create a more welcoming
airport experience.
Y-Q-Cuties brings trained dog-and-handler teams into the terminal to interact with passengers, offering calm, friendly companionship for those who may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a positive moment before their journey. The initiative reflects YQQ’s ongoing focus on enhancing passenger experience and traveller well-being.
"Air travel can be an emotional experience, whether you’re heading off on vacation or travelling for work," says Comox Valley Airport CEO Mike Atkins. "This program is a simple but meaningful way to create a calmer, more human airport experience and help travellers start their journey on a positive note."
The comfort pet program is delivered in partnership with Freedom Paws Canada, a nationally recognized organization that provides highly trained service dogs and therapy dog teams to support individuals and communities across Canada.
"Freedom Paws Canada is proud to partner with the Comox Valley Airport in the Y-Q-Cuties program which provides calm, supportive canine interactions," says Freedom Paws Canada Executive Director Barb Ashmead. "This comfort dog initiative operates separately from our psychological service dog training program, giving us the opportunity to share the calming presence of our dogs with the broader community."
At YQQ, comfort pet visits will take place periodically throughout the terminal, with clearly identified teams available to interact with travellers of all ages. Our first teams will launch Wednesday February 11th, with dog teams scheduled each week year-round. Participation is entirely optional, and the program is designed to be inclusive and accessible for passengers.
About YQQ
YQQ serves passengers from central and northern Vancouver Island with its year-round direct flights to Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Kelowna, and seasonal service to Toronto and Puerto Vallarta. Our Vancouver Island airport in the Comox Valley is connected by two major provincial highways, making it a natural hub for travellers seeking to enter or exit Vancouver Island.About Freedom Paws Canada
Freedom Paws Canada is a registered Canadian charity providing psychological service dog training for veterans, first responders, and civilians living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological injuries. Through a structured 48-week program, clients train alongside carefully assessed rescue or donated dogs to build safe, reliable partnerships that support confidence, stability, and daily functioning.
For more information, contact:
Barb Ashmead
Executive Director
Freedom Paws Canada
250-954-5552
info@ofpcanada.comGrant McNeil
Marketing and Communications Manager
Comox Valley Airport
250-890-0829 Ext. 253