While everyone is waiting for non-stop service to Asia from Miami International Airport, here’s a story that offers a bit of relief – in more ways that one.
In conjunction with National Dog Day last Friday, MIA launched its indoor Service Animal Relief Area (SARA) program with a location at Gate D-34, which is on the boarding side of the security checkpoint. Non-service animal dogs can use SARA as well.
It’s the first of four SARA locations, which have a patch of artificial turf, two sprinkler heads, a drainage system and cleaning supplies for owners. The SARA facilities are in addition to MIA’s three outdoor animal relief areas.
“Our new SARA facilities will help make traveling through MIA even more convenient for passengers with service animals or pets who prefer to remain in the post-security areas of the airport,” said Miami-Dade Aviation Department (MDAD) Director Emilio T. González.
Erinn Tackett, Owner of Tackett Service Dogs of Palm Beach and the consultant for MIA’s SARA program, joined MIA officials at the opening with two service dogs, who “christened” the new facility.
The SARA program is one of many customer service amenities MIA is introducing this year. Others include a recently opened Yoga Studio and the MIA Airport Official V2 mobile app. Coming soon are airport-wide nursing suites and a children’s learn-and-play center.
