Lisa Russo & Lulu

Who is in the photo at right?

That's me and my shadow, having a morning snuggle and kiss. I'm Lisa Russo, a fine art photographer. You can find me at Lisa Russo Fine Art Photography.

My furry friend is Lulu, our little girl bulldog who turned 6 this summer.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Just saying goodbye before I head off to the gym before returning home for my workday.

What's brewing?

I'm so boring: Just regular old coffee with splenda and cream! I love my Keurig!

Any treats for you or Lulu on this occasion?

Lulu just finished her morning rawhide chewy, which gets her more excited than just about anything!

How did Lulu get her name? Any nicknames?

My kids (Aidan & Ava) picked it, but good gravy do we have nicknames! Lulubean, beaner, beanie, beanie bear...the list goes on and on!

How were you and Lulu united?

We were in search of our 2nd bulldog, after our first (Sadie) passed at the grand old age (for a bulldog!) of 11. The breeder was showing us puppies when out ran this defective, rumbly piebald 5 month old she planned to add to her breeding kennel. We decided to take her and give her a life of spoiled luxury instead. Best decision ever.

Who is Lulu's best pet-pal?

My neighbor's giant schnauzer Iba and my other neighbor's lab Joba. I think Lulu is a little in love with Joba...he sweetly tolerates her.

Where is Lulu's favorite outdoor destination?

My car for afternoon school carpool! She stalks me from noon on, and as soon as I put her in the car she lies down and falls asleep. Too much energy expended during that whole 'stalking' time.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

You name it! But only for about 5 minutes before it's naptime again.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

None of the above. She chooses to watch life go by from a comfortable lying-down position. Chasing requires way too much energy!

What is Lulu's best quality?

Everything! She doesn't bark, jump, bite, growl or wander. Friendliest dog ever. If I had to name one, it would be how lovely she is with children.

If Lulu could change one thing about Texans, what would it be?

The rude drivers. It wakes her up when I yell at them inside the car.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Lulu could speak, which actor should do her voice?

Brenda Vaccaro!

If Lulu could answer only one question in English, what would you ask her?

Does anything hurt?

If I may, lest anyone read this and be encouraged to take on a bulldog, I wrote an informational blog post awhile back addressing the topic, as bulldogs are wonderful, but very (very) difficult to own. I fear many people get them thinking they're cute and full of character, but aren't quite prepared for the maintenance and expense. Wonderful dogs, but research is key. Here is a link: So you Think you Want a Bulldog?

Visit the Lisa Russo Fine Art Photography website and blog.

--Marshal Zeringue