See Spot Go (potty at the airport)
As you may know, I have often traveled with my now-retired service dog, Hugo. While many airports offer indoor relief areas with turf and plastic hydrants, he wants nothing to do with them! I’ve had to exit secure areas to find him a bit of gravel landscape or a single blade of grass in cracked concrete to pee on, then go back through security in time to catch my flight. This is not what I would describe as a good time.
Thankfully, a few airports now provide outdoor relief areas inside security for travelers with service animals or pets in transit.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York, NY
Terminal 5: Features the "Wooftop," a 4,000-square-foot outdoor garden patio located post-security across from Gate 28. This area offers seating, greenery, and a designated pet relief space, allowing pets to enjoy fresh air before departure.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO), San Francisco, CA
Terminal 1: Post-security pet relief area located between Gates B and C. This facility provides a comfortable space for pets to relieve themselves inside the secure area.
Terminal 3: Post-security pet relief area located between Gates F11 and F22, offering a convenient option for travelers with pets.
Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), Monterey, CA
Post-Security Courtyard: An outdoor courtyard available after security, featuring natural landscaping and waste disposal facilities. This area provides a pleasant open-air environment for pets and their owners.
Oakland International Airport (OAK), Oakland, CA
Terminal 1: Post-security pet relief area located near Gate 11. This facility offers a dedicated space for pets to relieve themselves inside the terminal.
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), Fresno, CA
Terminal 1: Post-security pet relief area located near Gate 10. This indoor facility provides a convenient space for pets to relieve themselves after passing through security.
These areas typically have grass or artificial turf and waste disposal stations. It’s recommended to check the airport’s website before traveling for exact locations and usage rules. And obviously, always clean up after your pet or service animal.
When I start working my next service dog, you can bet I’ll prioritize my layovers being strategically planned for features like this.
