Appearance Policy

Handsome Dan XIX loves meeting people! We welcome the opportunity to consider your appearance request. The celebrated bulldog is in high demand on campus— and he needs time for rest and play—but we will do our best to accommodate as many requests as we can.

Before submitting an event application, please review the information on this page.

All events will be evaluated on a request-by-request basis with preference for events that advances the Yale mission, including the following, but not limited to:

• Large-scale university events (such as Family Weekend, Bulldog Days, Orientation Week, Commencement, and alumni/donor events).
• Events requested by Yale University’s president and deans
• Yale athletic events
• Events requested by residential colleges

Off-campus or private appearance requests will be evaluated based on the following criteria. 

• The availability of Handsome Dan and his handler
• If the appearance advances the mission of Yale University
• The appearance is in a controlled and predictable environment
• Distance and logistics of event

Fees

Off-campus or private appearance requests are subject to an appearance fee. Additional fees for fuel or miscellaneous items such as lodging, parking, etc may apply as well.

Student events will be evaluated on a request-by-request basis at no charge.

• Tier 1: Yale Departments - No charge (after hour events will be on a request-by-request basis)
• Tier 2: Yale affiliate events held during business hours and on-campus (photoshoots, private parties, private meet and greets) - $100 per hour
• Tier 3: Yale affiliate events held after hours, weekends, or off-campus - $200 per hour. Non-profit organizations can apply for a fee waiver