I am Ruth G. Zavitsanos, a writer, mother and wife (definitely NOT in that order!). My dogs are Pebbles, a 6-year-old Border Collie/Black Lab and Rocky, a 4-month-old Miniature Australian Shepherd.What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?
When I found this site, I thought PERFECT. My day starts out with a cup of coffee and my canines laying on the floor of my office as I catch up on emails and social networking.
What's brewing?
BJs Warehouse Brand of Dark Roast whole bean with hazelnut creamer.
Any goodies to go with the coffee?
A fat free pumpkin or blueberry muffin.Any treats for Pebbles and Rocky on this occasion?
Yes, they love bacon flavored treats.
How were you and your dogs united?
We got Pebbles when our older dog fell sick with Diabetes. A friend said a neighbor's Border Collie had jumped the fence and the Black Lab down the street fell in love with her (wink, wink). We took one look at the furball and couldn't wait to bring her home. We recently got Rocky to do agility programs for fun on the weekends.
How did Pebbles and Rocky get their names? Do they have any aliases?
Pebbles was named by my youngest because she had heard about the Border Collie her father and I had that was hit by a car. We named her Wilma--fans of The Flintstones. Rocky just fits his personality and works with Pebbles!Do your dogs have any influence on your writing?
Absolutely! In my children's book, The Villa Dog, the story is told from the dog's point of view. I know dogs are very instinctive and sensitive to our needs which is why the main canine character in The Villa Dog is loved by all.
Where is their favorite place for an outing?
The Dog park. It has a creek that runs through it and Pebbles loves to swim. Rocky is young but soon he'll be going there too. Right now, they both love their walks through our neighborhood! Lots to investigate, see and other dogs to saunter past!
Squirrel, cat, postman...?
All of the animals are new to Rocky so he does a lot of watching and walking backwards. Pebbles loves to chase squirrels, cats, and SKUNKS!
Tennis ball, stick, squeaky-toy...?
They love to play tug of war with their BULLWINKLE stuffed animal!And a ball is pure happiness for both!
Who is each dog's best pet-pal?
Each other.
What is each dog's best quality?
Rocky is fun to watch cause he is young and innocent. Therefore he is very cautious but also fun loving. Pebbles is SWEET and FRIENDLY!
If Pebbles and Rocky could change one things about you, what would it be?
Less time writing and more time walking!
What is each dog's proudest moment?Always being at someone's side when they are sick!
The most embarrassing moment?
Pebbles was scratched by a twig near her eye. The vet had to shave it and she did not like it at all.
My entire family loves dogs. Pebbles and Rocky know they have a very loving and fun home. There is no doubt they appreciate their surroundings because they are so sweet, good and entertaining. They both are protectors and prefer to be with someone than by themselves. I enjoy writing dogs in a scene or as the focal point of my books because they have an added dimension of profound sensitivity and caring.
Read an excerpt from The Villa Dog, and learn more about the book at author at Ruth Zavitsanos' website and blog.
--Marshal Zeringue
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