Many people dream of a magic reset button. With one touch, it would instantly change their circumstances and create a more fulfilling life. What they don’t realize is that life provides plenty of opportunities to change direction, but few of us heed the signs showing us the way. For workaholic entrepreneurs Jim and Rene, their sign came as a cancer diagnosis. After growing their home-based business for ten years, their heart and soul dog, Jerry, had a front leg amputated because of bone cancer. Vets said their time together was running out. They decided to make the most of it. Acting quickly, they sold their home, their business, and nearly everything they owned. They bought a new RV and made Jerry a promise: “Stay with us long enough, and we’ll take you on the road trip of a lifetime!”

By the time they hit the road to travel the country together as a pack, Jerry had already outlived his original prognosis. Their RV travels took them from northern California through the southwest desert, to the Atlantic coast in Maine, down to Florida and back to the top of the world in the Rocky Mountains. For two years they experienced many adventures, with Jerry leading the way and showing the world that it’s better to hop on three legs than to limp on four. Their nomadic lifestyle breathed new life into the happy dog, who generously shared important life lessons along the way. Once they opened their eyes to how he lived each day to the fullest, everything looked different. Their reset button was pressed.

Be More Dog is more than a memoir about a threelegged dog on an epic road trip. This book is a heartwarming tale with deep meaning. Through his actions and attitude in the face of adversity, Jerry shows Jim and Rene how important it is to live in the now — to persevere when the going gets tough, to never give up, and that every day is a great day, no matter what life throws your way.

Features Jerry’s story, as seen in Nature: Why We Love Cats and Dogs which first aired on PBS in 2009. Includes Foreword and original artwork by MUTTS creator Patrick McDonnell, with scenes describing his famous “NOW! NOW! NOW!” strip that played a vital role in helping Jim and Rene discover the importance of living in the Now.

Nelson Jim