Dawn Ross & Maya and Pierson

Who is in the photo at right?

That's me, Dawn Ross, Maya, & Pierson. I am an entrepreneur and run several websites including www.PetAutoSafety.com, www.petautosafetyblog.com, and American Dog Blog.

Maya is my nearly-five-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever. I adopted her when she was about three months old. Pierson is probably a one-year-old Australian Shepherd/Border Collie mix. I rescued him on January 10th, 2012.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Since the patio swing is the only piece of furniture our dogs are allowed on, I like to sit outside with my dogs and start the day with cuddles, kisses, and coffee.

What's brewing?

I generally have just regular brewed coffee or tea.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

Cuddles and belly rubs.

How were you and your dogs united?

Maya was originally adopted by a woman who had two toddlers and an infant. Obviously, a hyper 3-month old puppy was a bit much for her. So I offered to take the cute pup. Her name was Dixie at the time but since I didn't like that name and since Maya had only been named Dixie for a week I decided to change it. As a lover of history and ancient mythologies, the name Maya is from Mata Maya or Maya Devi in Hindu mythology. Pierson was found at Pierson Park. How he came to be at that park, I do not know. But visitors to the park had kept him fed and told me that he had been living there for at least a month. He was a sweet dog but very leash shy so no one had been able to catch him. After three days of trying, I finally got some help and caught him. With a little time and patience, Pierson quickly adapted to his new home and is now one very happy and loved pup.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Maya is also called Poopers and Maya Papaya. Poopers, because for some reason she took a lot longer to potty train than any other dog I've ever had. Pierson is also called Mr. Fluffybutt for obvious reasons.

Do your dogs have a favorite place to go for an outing?

Maya loves the dog park. Pierson can't go because he doesn't like other male dogs. Both dogs love their walks in the neighborhood.

Squirrel, postman, cat...?

Pierson loves watching the squirrel living in our neighbor's yard and loves to chase the rabbits in our back yard. Whenever the UPS or FedEx guy come, Maya can't wait to greet them. Sometimes they give her a treat.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Pierson is in the chewing phase right now so loves anything he can chew. Maya likes squeaky toys and sticks.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

I like to think that I am their best pal. But it's hard to say with Maya because she wants to be best friends with everyone. Pierson definitely loves and trusts me. I was the first one he warmed up to at our home. He is still wary of strangers but if he sees me interact comfortably with them then he is more at ease.

What is each dog's best quality?

Maya is so sweet. I can trust her with all people and all dogs. She is especially good with small dogs, despite her size. And she is very good with young children. Pierson is super smart. We've only had him for just over four months now and he already knows all his basic commands and quite a few tricks.

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

Pierson & Maya: Awww, man! Why does mom make us follow all these rules? We're not allowed on the furniture, we aren't supposed to beg, we have to walk nicely on a leash and don't get to explore the neighborhood on our own, we have to wear seat belts in the car so we don't get in the front seat, and we have to try to sit and wait patiently while mom prepares our meals. Maya: Mom also makes me sit and won't let me jump on and greet guests when they come over. I'm not sure why she makes all these rules but she loves us a lot so it must be because of that.

If your dogs could speak in the movie about your life, who should do their voices?

Never thought about it.

Visit www.PetAutoSafety.com, www.petautosafetyblog.com, and American Dog Blog.

--Marshal Zeringue