Butler Blue III (aka “Trip”)
Butler Blue III, also known as “Trip,” was born December 23, 2011, in Lizton, Indiana, by breeders Frank and Jeane King, owners of Kong King Kennel. Weighing just 13.5 ounces at birth, Blue III was an AKC registered male English bulldog like his predecessors. He was distinguished by his red brindle and white markings passed on by his parents: Sire, Ch. Exact Classic Comet and Dam, Kongs Sarah.
With Blue II growing older and becoming senior in the breed, the Kings identified the only male in the litter of five born December 23, 2011, to become Butler Blue III.
Also of note, Blue III was the great-grandson of Ch. Cherokee Legend Rock, one of the nation’s winningest and most decorated English bulldogs of the past decade and of all time. Fitting lineage, since Blue III worked closely with Blue II to learn the true art of being “America’s Dog” on and off the campus of Butler University. A recognized AKC Canine Good Citizen, Blue III assumed the primary role of official mascot for Butler University in 2012. He made his debut before a sellout crowd in Hinkle Fieldhouse prior to a men’s basketball game on February 18, 2012.
Aptly nicknamed “Trip” (short for Triple, since he was the third mascot in succession), he resided with Michael Kaltenmark ’02, Director of External Relations, and his wife, Tiffany.
Blue III retired from active duty at the age of 8 on May 31, 2020, and took on an active role of Mascot Emeritus. With Trip’s retirement, Kaltenmark relinquished full-time handler duties after 16 years of duty.
On April 6, 2024, Trip passed away after a brief illness, surrounded by family. He was 12 years old.
Preceded by Butler Blue II. Succeeded by Butler Blue IV.
Facts
| Personal | Professional |
|---|---|
| AKC Registered Name: Butler Blue III | Occupation: Mascot Emeritus, Butler University |
| Nickname: Trip (short for Triple) | Dates of Service: February 18, 2012 – May 31, 2020 |
| Breed: English bulldog – male | First Day as Mascot: February 18, 2012 |
| Birthdate: December 23, 2011 | Tagline: The Beast of the Big East |
| Weight: 65 lbs. | Official Breeder: Kong King Kennel – Frank & Jeane King, Lizton, Indiana |
| Fur Color: Red brindle and white | Official Vet: Dr. Kurt Phillips ’92 – City Way Animal Clinic, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Favorite Treats: Holistic Select snacks, Medi-Crunch, Hinkle Fieldhouse popcorn, and bananas | Official Food Sponsor: City Dogs Grocery, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Favorite Toys: Antlers, bones, and balls | Official Food Provider: Holistic Select Brand by WellPet |
| Favorite Activities: Butler basketball games, campus events, rough-housing, cuddling, and lying on the couch | Official Treat: Medi-Crunch |
| Pet Peeve: Being left at home | Official Groomer: Good Dog Hotel & Spa, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Best Tricks: High-five, crawl, dead dog, and speak | Official Trainer: Bark Tutor School for Dogs – Megan Talarico, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Personal Motto: “Bulldogs Ever Do or Die!” | Official Clothier: Nike |
| Miscellaneous Support: Follett Corporation (Butler Bookstore), Indianapolis, Indiana | |
| Transportation: BlueMobile provided by Don Hinds Ford |