Inspired by Real-Life Adventures
Barks After Dark is a children’s picture book inspired by the three dogs who live at Thanksgiving Ranch. The stories are based on their real-life adventures exploring, protecting, and roaming the ranch after dark, along with the animals and situations they encounter along the way.
Different Barks, Different Personalities
One of the things that inspired the book was hearing how differently each dog barked depending on what they believed was out there. Sometimes the bark was playful, sometimes curious, sometimes protective, and sometimes genuinely serious. Those different voices became part of the personalities of the characters and helped make them feel real and recognizable.
Stories from the Ranch
Set against the backdrop of Thanksgiving Ranch, the stories are rooted in creeks, trails, wildlife, storms, night skies, and wide-open spaces. While the stories are written for children, they are also meant to capture curiosity, imagination, adventure, and connection to nature and the outdoors.
Early Response to the Book
The response so far from people who have previewed the book has honestly been amazing, especially regarding the illustrations and how real the dogs feel as characters.
Looking Ahead
The long-term goal is to hopefully build this into an ongoing series centered entirely around the real dogs of Thanksgiving Ranch and the adventures they experience throughout the seasons.
Look inside…
Meet the Dogs
Tex
The quirky Blue Heeler / Border Collie cross. A cattle dog that is strangely unsure about cattle. Independent, thoughtful, and usually off investigating something on his own unless there is a distraction.
Oakley
The happy-go-lucky black Lab. Kind-hearted, loyal, relaxed, and happiest when he gets to play fetch, go swimming, or just quietly wander beside people.
Pip
The fearless Jack Russell Terrier who believes she is fully in charge of the entire ranch. Ready to cuddle or chase something at a moment’s notice.
About the author
Brad Bustard is the owner of Thanksgiving Ranch, a working cattle ranch and luxury guest lodge tucked into the southwest corner of Alberta, on the edge of the Canadian Rockies.
He wears many hats — rancher, host, chef, photographer, and storyteller — shaping both the day-to-day life of the ranch and the experiences of his guests.
Together with his family, he has developed The Lodge as a welcoming, intimate retreat that blends the authenticity of ranch life with thoughtful luxury.
Brad’s passion for storytelling extends to his writing, where he brings the landscapes, wildlife, and personalities of the ranch to life for readers of all ages.