Daytona Beach Airport and Sheriff deputies launch K9 plush program.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

At the Daytona Beach International Airport, the safety and security of the traveling public are of the utmost importance, which is why the airport has partnered with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office to provide 24-hour coverage with a K9 team. Officials of the Daytona Beach International Airport and the Sheriff’s Office have worked together to launch the new K9 plush program to help travelers not be intimidated by law enforcement at the airport.

“The K9 plush program fits perfectly with the other public relations programs we are continuously implementing at the airport to enhance community outreach and the customer experience,” said Joanne Magley, head of the Airport’s Marketing & Customer Experience department. “DAB is the gateway for locals and guests to experience the beauty of the Daytona Beach area. While the airport is a building where people get processed for air travel and wait until they leave for their destination, everyone who works at the airport can enhance that wait and make a positive difference in the travel journey. That’s why a positive customer experience is at the heart of everything we do.”

When the K9 team is walking the airport, another deputy may accompany them on one of the rounds to hand out the plush dogs – a toy dog in the likeness of the K9 officer – to any passenger who looks like they could use one.

“The deputies are here to help if anyone needs any assistance, the dogs are here to protect travelers, and this program is a way to help deputies interact with travelers a little more,” said VSO Sr. Deputy Joe Durney.

According to a release, this new program is now part of everyday operations for law enforcement deputies at Daytona Beach International Airport.