Graham Westerson & Wicket

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Graham, and I’m a writer and freelance graphic designer. With me is little Wicket, a male Australian Shepherd mix, no more than a few months old.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

He’s always my helper in the kitchen, but today I need the extra cup to keep up with his care.

What's brewing?

Just Folger’s Instant today! A little instant, black coffee gets the job done.

Any treats for you or Wicket on this occasion?

No treats for him today, he’s on a strict diet.

How were you and Wicket united?

My girlfriend and I found him wandering the busy city street outside our apartment. He had no collar, and was far too small to be away from his mother. No one claimed him, so we took him in.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

We canvassed our friends for names, and one thought that, with his belly and stubby legs, he looked like Wicket, the lead Ewok from Star Wars. He’s also referred to as “Love Bug”, “Our Little Sausage” and, recently, “Lumpy”.

Please tell us about Wicket's health issues and how readers might help.

Wicket is just about old enough to get his shots, but before we could do that, he contracted the Parvovirus. Parvo is a very serious gastrointestinal disease, and most puppies don’t survive without treatment. [Editor's note: Wicket's treatments are quite expensive. Graham & his girlfriend have set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise the funds to help defray the medical costs. Check it out.]

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Anything he can chew on! He still has his milkteeth, and loves to chew on bones and hooves.

What is Wicket's best quality?

Wicket has boundless energy, and loves to make friends with everyone he sees.

If Wicket could change one thing about Californians, what would it be?

Less vegan food. Wicket loves meat!

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

What’s happening in those puppy dreams? They look like too much fun.

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

Comedian Aziz Ansari. He’s got the same manic energy and crazy eyes that makes Wicket so special.

What advice would Wicket give if asked?

Make new friends and explore the world, but don’t forget to treat yourself to a nap.

Check out the GoFundMe campaign to help Wicket beat the Parvovirus.

--Marshal Zeringue