K-9 Elvy Joins RIC Campus Police Force

Have no fear. Elvy, RIC’s first comfort dog, is here.

In August 2024 the affable three-year-old Labrador retriever was sworn in as a member of the campus police’s K-9 unit, which includes Elvy’s handler, Officer Dustin Coleman.

Among Elvy’s duties is to provide comfort to students in distress. When Officer Coleman is called to the scene, he’ll ask the student if they’d like to pet Elvy.

“I’ll let the two of them sit together in silence,” he says, “until the student chooses to open up about whatever is going on. Elvy is the bridge that allows people to let down their guard.”

Elvy also opens the door to positive interactions between the campus community and its police force.

“When students or staff see me with Elvy, they immediately come over to pet her, which gives me an opportunity to talk to them and build positive relationships,” Coleman says.

Elvy got her start as a comfort dog through Puppies Behind Bars, a program in which incarcerated individuals train service dogs to provide emotional support. After completing 10 months of training, Elvy responds to more than 70 commands, including the ability to give a high five.

At her swearing-in ceremony, RIC Chief of Campus Police James Mendonca cited the benefits of adding Elvy and Coleman to the RIC campus police force:

“In today’s fast-paced environment, students, faculty and staff often face considerable stress and anxiety,” he said. “The pressures of academic life, personal challenges and the complexities of modern life can take a toll on mental health. That’s where K-9 Elvy and Officer Coleman can make a profound difference. This team humanizes our police department and makes officers more approachable. Positive interactions with the K-9 team will build trust and foster a sense of safety and security on campus.”

View video of Elvy being sworn in.

Follow the activities of Elvy on Instagram: @k9elvy_the_anchordog.