BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Jake, a beloved therapy dog who brought smiles to travelers for years at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport, has died.
If you were ever at the airport on a Tuesday or Thursday, you probably met Jake and his caretaker Allan Monaco.
"These last 11 years were the most wonderful years for volunteering in my life," Monaco said. "It was a privilege to serve the people of Western New York, and show my dog, and let them love him like he loves us."
Jake quickly became a bit of a celebrity. The golden retriever has a long list of friends, including former Buffalo Bills Quarterback Jim Kelly, Buffalo Bills Head Coach Sean McDermott, Buffalo Bills Tackle Dion Dawkins, Singer Stevie Wonder and Singer Gene Simmons.
Jake also has his own Instagram with more than 1,600 followers.
Jake's handlers posted the following update on Instagram:
It is with great sadness and with a broken heart that today Jake crossed the rainbow bridge. He’s been battling lymphoma over the past 18 months and most recently intestinal cancer. “Jake the Airport Dog” has served in the SPCA Paws For Love Program for the last 11 years. Additionally, Jake served as a comfort dog at Lakeside Funeral Home for numerous funerals and also welcomed home Veterans from WNY Honor Flights. He also served at other various capacities of WNY comforting those in need. He’s touched so many hearts In WNY and visitors from all over the world. Jake would have celebrated his 13th Birthday on January 17th. He was truly loved and will be missed.
Jake served the Paws For Love Program for over a decade, roaming the terminal to help passengers de-stress.
"There was not a single airport employee, there was not a single person who walked into that airport, saw that dog and didn't stop and smile," NFTA Public Information Officer Kelly Khatib said.
"It means everything to me that my dog can help somebody and make them feel that good. He was the best," Monaco said.
Our hearts are broken. Jake brought comfort and smiles to so many people traveling through the Buffalo airport, and was a friend to all who knew him. We love you, Jake, and we will miss you dearly. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/2lTWlA3seA
— Buffalo Niagara International Airport (@BUFAirport) December 10, 2024
For the past few years, Jake hardly spread joy alone. He and Maya, a golden retriever from another family, were a team, in charge of spreading joy at the airport twice a week, but now that role is left to Maya to fill alone, for now.
"My daughter has two yellow labs, I'm seriously considering getting one certified to come here and continue on Jake's legacy," Monaco said.
