United Airlines brings comfort dogs to O'Hare for spring break

CHICAGO (WLS) -- United Airlines brought comfort dogs to seven of the nation's largest airports, including O'Hare International Airport, for those traveling on Spring Break.

For the program United donates $1 per picture posted under the hashtag #UnitedPaws, to the participating comfort dog organization. K-9 Comfort Dogs in Northbrook provided the comfort dogs for travelers at O'Hare.

"The simple act of petting a dog for just five minutes decreases stress levels, allows us to breathe easier, lowers blood pressure and increases oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and affection," said United spokesman Jonathan Guerin.

The program started Friday, April 1, and ends Sunday night. United says it plans to bring the comfort dogs back during period of high travel, especially during the holiday season.

Along with O'Hare, United brought comfort dogs to Newark Liberty Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Los Angeles International Airport, Denver International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.