Beloved Detroit Metro Airport Therapy Dog Kevin Dies

The 8-year-old toy fox terrier was known for greeting passengers in a pilot hat and stroller.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:09pm

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An extremely blurred, abstract image of a small dog in a pilot hat sitting in a stroller, with the warm, soft glow of airport lighting surrounding the scene, conveying a sense of comfort and nostalgia.The passing of therapy dog Kevin marks the end of an era for the beloved DTW Dogs program that has brought comfort and joy to travelers at Detroit Metro Airport for years.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Metro Airport Authority announced the passing of Kevin, one of the original therapy dogs in the airport's pet therapy program. Kevin, an 8-year-old toy fox terrier, was known for wearing a pilot hat and riding in a stroller as he greeted passengers in the terminals to help alleviate travel stress.

Why it matters

The DTW Dogs Pet Therapy Program has been an important part of the airport experience for many years, providing comfort and joy to travelers. Kevin's passing marks the end of an era for this beloved program and the loss of a familiar and friendly face that passengers have come to expect during their time at Detroit Metro Airport.

The details

Kevin was one of the original therapy dogs in the DTW Dogs Pet Therapy Program, which is run in partnership with the Rochester-based Fur Angels Pet Therapy Group. He was known for wearing a pilot hat and riding in a stroller as he toured the airport terminals, with a sign on his stroller encouraging passengers to 'Pet me!' The airport authority said Kevin 'brought comfort and smiles to so many' during his time in the program.

  • Kevin, an 8-year-old male toy fox terrier, was one of the original DTW Dogs.

The players

Detroit Metro Airport Authority

The organization that oversees operations at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and announced the passing of therapy dog Kevin.

Fur Angels Pet Therapy Group

The Rochester-based organization that partners with the Detroit Metro Airport Authority to run the DTW Dogs Pet Therapy Program.

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What they’re saying

“He brought comfort and smiles to so many. He will always be part of the DTW family.”

— Detroit Metro Airport Authority

The takeaway

The loss of Kevin, a beloved and familiar face in the DTW Dogs Pet Therapy Program, marks the end of an era for this important airport amenity that has provided comfort and joy to countless travelers over the years. Kevin's passing is a reminder of the positive impact therapy animals can have on people's lives, especially in high-stress environments like airports.