MORE THAN A MASCOT
Butler Blue V is the fifth live English Bulldog mascot in Butler University history. As a beloved University ambassador, Blue brings people together and spreads Bulldog pride among students, alumni, and fans.
Meet Blue V.
Meet Butler Blue V, a red fawn English Bulldog born on August 17, 2026, in Sorento, Illinois. Raised by Rachel Garde of Dog Gone Bulldogs, Blue made the journey to his new home in Indianapolis with his handler, April Kirts ’26, on November 1, 2026. He was officially introduced to the Butler community on November 13, 2026. As Butler’s fifth live mascot, Blue V begins a new chapter in the Butler Live Mascot Program, following Butler Blue IV’s nearly seven years of service to the campus and community.
Blue V is a mellow, easygoing puppy with a curious spirit and a love for making new friends. He’s always up for a cuddle, though his stubborn streak sometimes shows when it’s time to leave a favorite spot. His favorite things include lounging under the coffee table, taking morning walks, and getting his paws on his handler’s favorite shoes.
Meet April.
April Kirts ’26 graduated from Butler University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Strategic Communication: Public Relations and Advertising. She joined the Butler Live Mascot Program in July 2026 and welcomed Blue V into her home in November. As Blue’s handler, Kirts coordinates appearance requests and oversees his daily care and well-being.
A lifelong dog lover, Kirts grew up with dogs, most often Newfoundlands. The Butler Live Mascot Program first caught her attention before she enrolled at the University. After four years as a student, she was eager to begin a new chapter with her alma mater, helping carry forward the beloved tradition that first drew her to Butler.
Invite Butler Blue V
Bring Butler spirit to your event with a visit from Blue! Appearances begin in January 2027 and are subject to availability and event suitability.
Good Boy, Blue!
Good Boy, Blue! (and a Great Mascot, Too) is the second book in the Good Boy, Blue! series that follows Butler Blue and his experiences as Butler’s dawg.
Co-written by Butler alumni Michael Kaltenmark and Evan Krauss and inspired by their own journeys with the mascot program, the book follows Blue as he trains a puppy to become Butler’s next live mascot. The story takes on special meaning as Butler transitions from Blue IV to Blue V, celebrating the bond between generations and the passing of a beloved Butler tradition.
You can purchase the book at the Butler Bookstore or online.
Get the Book
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