Karen Miller & Seiko, Wilson, and Millie

Who is in the photo at right?

So, the person in the photo not a zombie canine is Karen Miller, speculative fiction author. And the zombie canines are from left to right: Seiko (aka Psycho), cocker spaniel/poodle, male, 18 months; Wilson, Maltese terrier/jack russell, male, 5 years and Millie, Maltese terrier/poodle, female, 6 years.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Since I don't do coffee this was a post-workout pile on (hence the author's cherry-red face) because, hey, I abandoned them for an hour so I could exercise and have a shower after.

What's brewing?

Again, alas, being not a civilised person who drinks coffee, my intention after the photography was to indulge in a chocolate protein shake. Which I had no hope in hell of holding for the purposes of the photo!

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

No. We're all of us trying to lose weight.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Well, Seiko (aka Psycho) is only sort of mine, insofar as he's my father's dog technically but he travels so much that my place is his second home. Dad named him. Because he's a ... wait for ... watch dog. (I'll give you a moment to recover from the terrible pun.) Wilson's all mine, I named him, after House MD's best friend. Since he's my best friend! And Millie came to me with that name.

How were you and your dogs united?

Like I said, Seiko is kind of a step dog, but very much one of the family. Wilson's story is unusual in that I found him in a pet shop. Most of my dogs in the past (there have been a few!) were rescue jobs. But I'd lost my last dog, MacDuff (rescue from Mt Druitt TAFE college, where I was teaching) at the grand age of 19. I lasted 3 months as a dogless person. Then on the way home from an interstate trip to a convention I was seized with the notion that I had to have a dog, right now. So I got home, got in the car, drove down the road to my excellent local pet shop that only works with proper, registered breeders, and I found Wilson. Love at first sight. A year or so later, when I was thinking I needed to find him a doggy friend, I heard about a dog in a bad situation, and so rescued her. That's Millie. Instant love all around.

How do your dogs help--or hinder--your writing?

Whether it's just my two, or the terrible threesome, I can't be anywhere without the loyal escort. As I type this they're all sleeping at my feet in the study. We're a pack, I'm pack leader, so it's all for one and one for all. Seiko is young and very energetic, so sometimes he gets a bit pushy wanting to play ball. Otherwise they never hinder me, and when I get stuck on a sticky plot point they're always ready to listen as I talk my way out of it!

Have any actual dogs inspired fictional dogs in your writing?

Not yet. But I never say never!

Rabbit, postman, cat....?

As in chasing? None of the above. We chase balls and dog toys.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Wilson loves Millie, and Millie loves Wilson. Seiko loves Wilson, and Wilson loves Seiko. Millie quite likes Seiko but wishes he wasn't so boisterous. Seiko would love Millie if she'd let him, but she won't. And everybody loves Editor Barney, my cat who thinks he's a dog. And Editor Barney loves everyone.

What is each dog's best quality?

Seiko is a goof. He makes me laugh. Wilson is incredibly loving. He literally throws himself backwards into my arms for a hug. And Millie is so sweet and polite.

If your dogs could change one thing about you, what would it be?

More time throwing balls and dog toys, less time in front of the stupid computer.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices?

Patton Oswalt for Seiko, James McAvoy for Wilson and Joanne Froggatt for Millie.

If your dogs could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

Are you happy?

Visit Karen Miller's website.

My Book, The Movie: The Falcon Throne.

The Page 69 Test: The Falcon Throne.

Writers Read: Karen Miller.

--Marshal Zeringue

Peg Kehret & Lucy

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Peg Kehret, children’s book author and a long time volunteer with animal rescue groups. My biggest claim to fame is that my books have won fifty state young reader awards. My dog, Lucy, is twelve, a mixed breed rescued dog.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We’re celebrating the release of my new book, Dangerous Deception (Dutton Children’s Books). I have to confess that the dog in this book plays no part in the plot, but my heroine rescues a cat that the bad guy has thrown in a Dumpster.

What's brewing?

I am a coffeeholic. Any kind of coffee, as long as it’s hot and black. Even in the summer, I want my coffee hot.

Any treats for you or Lucy on this occasion?

Lucy does not need a special occasion to want a treat. For that matter, neither do I. Her treats are kept in an old tin Borden’s malted milk container and she can hear the lid being removed from anywhere in the house.

How did Lucy get her name? Any nicknames?

Lucy was named for Lucille Ball, because of the red tint to her fur.

How were you and Lucy united?

She was picked up by Animal Control as a stray and taken to a county shelter where they decided she was too afraid to be adoptable. A rescue group agreed to take her and I adopted her from them. Before we even got home, I discovered that she was in heat and had kennel cough. My veterinarian thought she was about one year old. Lucy was terrified of any man in a baseball cap. She cowered and hid when my husband picked up a yard stick. It took a long time for her to trust people but now she is a happy, silly dog.

Are there any Lucy-inspired dogs in your fiction?

I didn’t need to make up a fictional Lucy because I wrote about the real dog in my memoir, Animals Welcome: A Life of Reading, Writing, and Rescue.

Does Lucy do more to help or hinder your writing?

Lucy has a bed in my office and is good about sleeping while I work, as long as she has received a treat from the dish in my desk drawer as soon as I sit down. If I forget the treat, I get constant reminders.

Who is Lucy's best pet-pal?

Otter, my daughter’s dog, is Lucy’s special friend. They celebrate every holiday together [photo right] and happily share my lap whenever they can.

Where is Lucy's favorite outdoor destination?

There’s a nature trail on my property. Trail is one of Lucy’s vocabulary words and when I say it, she runs to the entrance, eager to go. She often rolls in the grass while she waits for me to catch up. I call that schnerkling.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Although I have a whole basket of squeaky toys, rope tugs and balls, Lucy has never learned to play with a toy. If I throw a ball she runs after it, then stops and waits for me to fetch it and throw it again. I am very well trained.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

She is diligent about warning me if a squirrel comes too close to the house – or a deer, or a pigeon, or Mr. Stray, the feral cat that I’ve fed for fourteen years.

What is Lucy's best quality?

Lucy is loyal. When she looks at me, her eyes shine with love light. Although she weighs only ten pounds, I have no doubt that she would defend me against any peril.

If Lucy could change one thing about Washingtonians, what would it be?

She probably wishes people would quit inviting me to go places so that I’d stay home with her all the time. When I pick up my purse and car keys, her head hangs, her tail uncurls, and her whole body droops. My return – even if I’ve been gone only half an hour – means joyous barking and running circles around the dining room table.

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

Could you please let me have a little more space in the bed at night?

Even though she doesn’t speak English, Lucy and I do communicate. I’m glad she knows she will always be safe and loved.

Visit Peg Kehret's website and Facebook page.

--Marshal Zeringue

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

Jane Isaac & Bollo

Who is in the photo at right?

Jane Isaac, UK based author of psychological crime thrillers, An Unfamiliar Murder and The Truth Will Out. And four-year-old Lab cross, Bollo, my fun-loving trusted companion.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I have my morning brew with Bollo every morning before the rest of the household awakes. In the summertime, if it’s fine we’ll take it out into the garden. It’s our time.

What's brewing?

This morning we’re having a homemade latte.

Any treats for you or Bollo on this occasion?

There’s always treats for Bollo. And Bollo always thinks my treats are his too. Strangely he doesn’t share his with me. (I’m quite grateful really, but don’t tell him that.)

How were you and Bollo united?

We drove 60 miles to nearby Derbyshire to see him. I can remember it like it was yesterday. He was seven weeks old and all feet and ears.

How did your dog get his name?

Bollo was the name of a gorilla in a British comedy series called The Mighty Boosh. The name fits our Bollo perfectly – he makes us smile every day.

Does Bollo do more to help or hinder your writing?

Bollo is most certainly my partner-in-crime. When I’m facing a tricky twist or turn, or the mystery just isn’t cutting it, he tends to find the right moment to wade in and nudge me to take him for a walk. It’s amazing how much an hour of fresh air and rolling countryside can blow out the cobwebs and focus the mind.

Have any actual dogs inspired fictional dogs in your published work?

I have a German Shepherd and two Labradors in my books to date. Hmmm. Wonder where they came from?

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Squirrel. Always the squirrel.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

I don’t think Bollo could exist without a game of ball at least once a day. (‘Sport Billy’ is one of his nick-names.)

Who is Bollo's best pet-pal?

A beautiful Dogue de Bordeaux named Elvis.

What is Bollo’s best quality?

How long have you got?

He’s such a friendly happy dog. The other day our friend described him as a ‘happy fool in a black fur suit’. I guess that kind of sums him up.

If Bollo could change one thing about Northamptonians, what would it be?

Probably nothing. He races down the road every morning as if there’s a party at the end of the village and he’s missing it. He’s just in love with life.

If Bollo could answer only one question in English, what would you ask him?

Where do you put all that food?

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Bollo could speak, who should voice him?

Billy Crystal.

Visit Jane Isaac's website, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Yona Zeldis McDonough & Willa and Holden

Who is in the photo at right?

Yona Zeldis McDonough, a novelist and children’s book author. Dogs are Willa, a female Pomeranian who is about eight, and Holden, a male Pom who is seven.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I always have a morning latte and in the warm weather, an iced coffee late in the afternoon. I have to feed Willa and Holden before I have my morning brew because otherwise they bark so much I can’t enjoy it. But once they are eating peacefully, I can make that eagerly anticipated a.m. beverage. So they are eating while I am sipping at my dining room table.

What's brewing?

For the morning coffee, it’s a nifty Nespresso coffee maker that uses pods; the iced coffee is a chicory blend from Cafe du Monde in New Orleans. My husband introduced me to it and I just love the robust, ever-so-slightly bitter flavor.

Any treats for you or Holden and Willa on this occasion?

Yes, when breakfast is over, they get dog biscuits and in the afternoons, I give some some broken up quinoa crackers, which make them insane with joy.

[photo left: Willa]

You have a new novel that's just hit the bookstores. Are there any dogs in it?

There is indeed a Pom in You Were Meant for Me. His name is Fluff and he’s a bit of a bad boy: snapping, snarling, chewing on slippers etc. The fiancé of the character who owns him wants to get rid of him but they manage to come to an understanding that accommodates both man and beast.

Your new book for children, a biography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, has a dog pictured on the cover. I know the author had several dogs in her lifetime. Which one is that on the cover? Do the dogs appear in the biography?

That’s Jack, the bulldog her family had when she was a child. And yes, he appears in the biography. He’s a loyal and stalwart little guy.

Last year you shared that the dogs yap like mad at the postman. How's he holding up?

He seems to take it in stride. And to their credit, it’s all bark and no bite. In fact, I’ve never even known Holden to growl, though once in a rare while, Willa does.

We know Holden and Willa love your backyard. Do they have a favorite destination away from home?

Not for Willa. She is a true homebody. But Holden likes to take walks around our neighborhood (Park Slope) where he is much exclaimed over and admired.

Is Brooklyn generally a dog-friendly place?

Boy is it ever! So many dogs here, dogs runs in playgrounds and the park, shops that offer free biscuits and set out bowls of water for strolling pooches. Dog watching is fun here for that reason; I have lots of dog pals in the ‘hood.

[photo right: Holden, fresh from the groomer]

What's the latest thing that Holden and Willa did to help your writing? How about to impede it?

Once in a while, a barking jag may interfere with my concentration. But mostly I find them delightful little companions who inspire me and bring so much happiness to my writing, and my days.

In 2012 I asked you: if Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices? You said Nicole Kidman should play Willa and Tom Hanks should play Holden. Any reconsiderations or alternative casting choices?

I’m still standing by those choices but I also could see Cameron Diaz as Willa…just saying...

Visit Yona Zeldis McDonough's website.

Coffee with a Canine: Yona Zeldis McDonough & Queenie, Willa and Holden (October 2012).

Coffee with a Canine: Yona Zeldis McDonough & Willa and Holden (September 2013).

The Page 69 Test: You Were Meant For Me.

Writers Read: Yona Zeldis McDonough.

My Book, The Movie: You Were Meant for Me.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kevin Lee Jacobs & Lily

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Kevin Lee Jacobs, the creator of the food and lifestyle blog A Garden for the House. In my arms is Lily the Beagle, my 6 1/2-year-old best friend. She’s also my sous-chef and, on occasion, my taste-tester. A more enthusiastic kitchen-helper doesn’t exist.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Just now we’re enjoying the morning sunshine in the Herb Garden. Then it’s back to work! I’m writing a cook book that covers Brunch, Afternoon Tea, the Cocktail Hour, Dinner and Dessert.

What's brewing?

A Columbian blend, fortified with heavy cream. Skim milk is against my religion.

Any treats for you or Lily on this occasion?

A scone for me. Lily had boiled chicken and veggies for breakfast, so no treat for her until tea time.

Your blog, A Garden for the House, is very lively. Does Lily play much of a role in it?

Are you kidding? My blog has made Lily an internet star!

How were you and Lily united?

Well, it's a sad story with a happy ending. Six years ago she was abandoned by her former owner. Then she was struck by a car in front of our house. My partner and I saved her, and gave her the medical attention she needed. Then we adopted her.

Who is Lily's best pet-pal?

She has two -- our cats Tiger and Camille.

Where is Lily's favorite outdoor destination?

Any place where squirrels are present.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

She can’t resist a squeaky, stuffed hedgehog. She also loves rawhide bones.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Squirrels, definitely.

What is Lily's best quality?

Like all dogs, she gives love unconditionally. She’s also very musical -- you should hear her sing when the noon whistle blows. She matches the pitch!

If Lily could change one thing about New Yorkers, what would it be?

She likes New Yorkers just the way they are.

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

Bette Midler. Or maybe Vera Farmiga.

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

Like all dogs, Lily dreams when she sleeps. I'd love to know what, exactly, those dreams entail!

Visit the A Garden for the House blog, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Dan Richards & Freddy

Who is in the photo at right?

Hi! My name is Dan Richards. I’m a children’s author. My debut picture book The Problem With Not Being Scared Of Monsters came out August 1st of this year. Next to me is my 7 year old Golden Doodle buddy Freddy.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

To be honest, neither of us drink coffee so we got together to prove it was possible to take a photo with us both looking into the camera.

Any treats for you or Freddy on this occasion?

Freddy got Natural Balance Potato and Duck treats. I got a headache trying to get him to pose.

How were you and Freddy united?

He’s been part of our family since he was 12 weeks old. Hard to remember life without him.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

My daughter wanted to name him Fred after Fred Weasley from the Harry Potter series (not quite sure why) and my son wanted to name him Darth Vader after, well, Darth Vader. We compromised and named him Fred Vader though he’s known now as simply Freddy.

Does Freddy do more to help or hinder your writing?

Freddy likes to lay on the floor and wrap his body around my chair while I write. This helps my concentration but hinders getting up to use the restroom.

Cat, postman, squirrel…?

Freddy loves to chase cats. He could care less about the postman. Unless the postman is a cat.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick…?

He loves stuffed animals. Unfortunately, he has razor sharp teeth. Nothing he plays with lasts more than a few minutes. He even sliced an ‘indestructible’ rubber toy in half.

What is Freddy's best quality?

He’s pretty much the gentlest dog ever. And the most creative in the use of pillows.

If Freddy could change one thing about Washingtonians, what would it be?

He would prefer every Washingtonian drop goldfish crackers wherever they go. Or drop cats.

If Freddy could answer only one question in English, what would you ask him?

How is it possible you can poop every time I take you for a walk even when it’s our fourth walk of the day?

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Freddy could speak, who should voice him?

Ben Stiller. They have the same hair and eyes.

What advice would Freddy give if asked?

When asked to pose for a photo, avoid the camera until all treats have been exhausted, including the ones supposedly forgotten in the back of the cupboard. Then give them one look to remember.

Visit the official Dan Richards website and Facebook page.

--Marshal Zeringue