Bringing Comfort, Connection, and Well-Being to the URI Community

College can be exciting, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming. That's why Basil, the University of Rhode Island Therapy Dog, is here to help create moments of comfort, connection, and joy for students, faculty, staff, and visitors across campus.

Whether you're preparing for exams, adjusting to college life, or simply need a few minutes to recharge, spending time with Basil can help reduce stress, encourage positive social interactions, and brighten your day.

Who is Basil?

Basil is a professionally trained therapy dog who serves the University of Rhode Island community through animal-assisted interactions that promote emotional well-being and campus engagement.

With a calm temperament, friendly personality, and love of meeting new people, Basil enjoys visiting classrooms, campus events, student organizations, wellness programs, libraries, residence halls, and other university activities.

Basil's goal is simple:

Help people feel a little better—one wag at a time.

What Does a Therapy Dog Do?

A therapy dog provides comfort and emotional support through positive interactions with people in schools, hospitals, universities, counseling settings, libraries, and community organizations.

Unlike a service dog, a therapy dog does not perform disability-related tasks for one individual. Instead, therapy dogs work with a trained handler to support the well-being of many people.

Research has shown that therapy dog visits may help:

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Promote relaxation

• Encourage social connection

• Improve mood

• Support emotional wellness

• Create a welcoming campus environment

• Provide healthy study breaks during busy semesters

Therapy Dog Visits at the University of Rhode Island

Basil participates in a variety of university programs and events that support student success and campus wellness.

Therapy dog visits may include:

• Student wellness events

• Finals week stress relief programs

• Orientation activities

• Residence hall visits

• Campus resource fairs

• Mental health awareness events

• Student organization programs

• Faculty and staff appreciation events

• Community outreach activities

Each visit is designed to provide a calm, welcoming experience where members of the URI community can pause, connect, and enjoy a positive interaction.

Why Therapy Dogs Matter on College Campuses

The transition to college can bring new responsibilities, academic pressures, and life changes. Therapy dog programs have become increasingly popular on college campuses because they offer a simple, meaningful way to promote wellness.

Benefits of interacting with therapy dogs may include:

• Lower perceived stress

• Increased feelings of connection

• Improved emotional regulation

• Enhanced campus engagement

• Positive social interaction

• A brief mental reset during demanding academic periods

For many students, even a few minutes with a therapy dog can make a meaningful difference during a busy day.

Meet Basil at Campus Events

You'll often find Basil participating in campus wellness initiatives throughout the academic year.

Students are encouraged to:

• Stop by and say hello

• Enjoy a few quiet moments

• Ask questions about therapy dogs

• Learn about animal-assisted interventions

• Take photos (when appropriate)

• Share a smile with fellow students

Every interaction is voluntary, respectful, and centered around both human and canine well-being.

Can Anyone Meet Basil?

Yes! Basil participates in approved University of Rhode Island events that are open to students, faculty, staff, and invited guests.

The University of Rhode Island is committed to supporting the health and well-being of its students through a variety of wellness initiatives. Basil is proud to be one small part of creating a caring, compassionate campus where students feel welcomed and supported.

Whether you're having a difficult day or simply want to share a smile, Basil looks forward to meeting you.