Emma Brayfield & Mo

Who is in the photo at right?

This picture shows myself (Emma Brayfield) and my dog Mo. I am a graduate student at the Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, getting a Masters of Science in Animals and Public Policy. Specifically focusing on wild horse advocacy. More importantly, Mo is a 100-pound male shepherd/wolf mix and is about nine years old.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We are getting the word out about a GoFundMe campaign. Mo has been diagnosed with liver cancer, which has been a huge blow. However, I have decided to turn his diagnosis into something positive for everyone. Mo has been put on an up and coming cancer drug, Palladia, which has shown great promise in testing. Unlike chemo, it targets specifically cancer cells across six different pathways and has extended the life of dogs 2-3 years. Funds raised will not only go toward Mo’s treatment, but also research and development of Palladia so it can be readily available for all of our beloved friends.
You can find out more at: http://www.gofundme.com/modog.
You can also follow Mo for updates on Instagram: @peopleofmo.

What's brewing?

I’m not a big coffee drinker, but before a long drive I will have a chi tea latte or a vanilla latte.

Any treats for you or Mo on this occasion?

Mo loves roasted vegetables and meat!

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

Mo’s full name is MoMo. He also goes by “Mo dog,” “Mo Diggity” and “Bub.”

How were you and Mo united?

Mo is from the Trinity Mountains in northern California, which is where I spent summers working for a ranch camp. Mo belonged to a distant friend of mine (and the ranch mechanic) who passed away due to a heart attack. After his owners’ death, Mo was left wandering the mountains—fending for himself. Eventually he came out of the bushes and luckily found the local vet. The vet happens to be a close friend who suggested I come meet Mo. At the time I was not looking for a dog, as I was finishing up undergraduate school. However, Mo and I instantly connected and I just couldn’t leave him there! We still visit every summer.

Cat, postman, squirrel....?

All of the above, plus deer and rabbits and cows. Mo has a strong prey drive (thanks to his wolf genes), but he is polite when meeting other dogs and loves to socialize.

Squeaky-toy, ball, stick...?

Mo loves to chase and suckle on stuffed animals. He will chase a stick into a river and sometimes a tennis ball. He also likes to chew on bones--specifically at night and has them stockpiled for safekeeping.

Where is Mo's favorite outdoor destination?

If there is a long hike through mountains and forest with a river or lake along the way then Mo is totally game!

Who is Mo's best pet-pal?

A female three-legged golden retriever, named Ilsa. A close second is Zadie, a chocolate poodle. The three of them have many play dates.

What is Mo's best quality?

I could go on about this! Mo has a presence about him; it draws people to him and makes strangers stop us on the street. It is almost as if he is connected to something outside of our planet. He is calm, beyond loving and will give you everything he has--even if you just met.

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

He would petition the state to allow dogs into state parks, on leash of course!

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

James Earl Jones, with a bit of a southern drawl and not so deep.

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

I would ask him to describe his favorite memory.

What advice would Mo give if asked?

He would tell you to be kind to everyone you meet, love deeply and explore the world.

Find out more about Mo's cancer treatment and how you can help him and future dogs afflicted with cancer at http://www.gofundme.com/modog. Follow Mo for updates on Instagram: @peopleofmo.

--Marshal Zeringue