Dexter: The Stand Up Dog

By Bonnie Kelso and Kentee Pasek

A 2025 Eureka Nonfiction Book Award Honoree - Silver

As seen on The Today Show with Jenna & Friends

From content creator and proud pet parent Kentee Pasek, and award-winning author-illustrator, Bonnie Kelso, comes a picture book about a worldwide Internet sensation and inspirational canine companion. Dexter: The Stand Up Dog tells an amazing story of perseverance and determination as unique and heart-warming as Dexter himself.

Dexter was a happy Brittany Spaniel rescue puppy - running, playing with his ball, begging for belly rubs - until one day he ran out the door and over the fence into the road. Injured in a terrible accident, Dexter lost one front leg and the use of the other, but survived the ordeal through the skill of his veterinary team and love of his family. When Dexter finally came home, it was hard to run and jump again. His family bought him a wheelchair, but Dexter wanted to go faster. He made up his mind to do the impossible. And so one day . . . he did

Dexter learned to walk, hop and run on two legs, and was embraced by the small Colorado community he called home. Then, during the difficult times of the COVID lockdowns, Dexter's story traveled across the Internet. His ability to stand tall inspired and encouraged thousands of people around the world, proving that any challenge could be overcome one "Dexter-step at a time."

This inspirational picture book is sure to be a hit with pet-lovers throughout the world and with anyone who embraces the power of love, hope and determination. It's perfect for storytime, classrooms, gift shops, home libraries, veterinary clinic waiting rooms, and anywhere dogs are adored.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1957655488
• ISBN13: 9781957655482
• Release Date: September 2025
• Publisher: Gnome Road Publishing
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 11.2" x 9.2"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3