Valerie A. Cody & Sundae

Who is in the photo at right?

Hello! I’m Valerie Cody, the founder, content creator and photographer over at Perfect Timing Photography. I also enjoy my time in front of the camera as a freelance model/brand ambassador. Find me on Instagram! I also work part-time teaching yoga to elementary school children. This little blonde “mini-me” is Sundae. She is a long haired, miniature, English cream dachshund. Sundae is a Libra who turned 2 on October 20th.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I haven’t had a cup of coffee in a while, so I decided it was time to enjoy one. Also, beautiful weather and lovely company! What more could I ask for?

What's brewing?

Black coffee from The Gourmet Shop in Columbia, SC.

Any treats for you or Sundae on this occasion?

Sundae just devoured a Bark Bar in the gingerbread flavor. We feed her these because they are made with vegan ingredients.

How were you and Sundae united?

Sundae is a Carolina girl, she hails from Wilmington, NC. We picked up our little girl a few weeks before Christmas of 2014.

How did your dog get her name? Any aliases?

The thought process went like this: English Cream = Ice Cream = Ice Cream Sundae. The Cody household is absolutely overrun with nicknames, to the point where it is embarrassing. We try to limit our nickname usage when guests are present, but just know that we basically have our own language. Not even household appliances are exempt from the nicknames. So, naturally, Sundae has so many aliases that it feels unnatural even calling her ‘Sundae’ for the purpose of this interview. To name a few: Goose, Boppins, Sundance, Spook, Pookah, and Spookensyboppinschbeetle. No, that last one was not a typo.

You've got some great photos of pets and people on your website. Who are the more challenging subjects, pets or people?

Thank you! Overall, people are more challenging. Yes, pets have the shorter attention span, but that’s nothing which can’t be fixed by a dangling treat. However, it can be difficult to please people based on the bias they have of themselves. I may think he/she looks stunning in a photo, but the subject may be self-critical. It’s important to take a little time with clients before a shoot to help them feel confident and comfortable. This is the secret to capturing natural looking expressions and body language during a photoshoot.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Postman! Or pizza delivery man. Or passer-by. Generally, any human who isn’t my husband or me.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Definitely not a stick. But she loves a squeaky-ball!

Who is Sundae's best pet-pal?

Sundae’s best friend is Kona, a chihuahua-beagle mix. Kona lives in Florida now, but just the mention of Kona’s name will send Sundae into a frenzy. We attempted an ill-fated relationship with Royce, a pitbull mix. However, to no fault of Royce, Sundae is only comfortable around him when she is being held by a human.

What is Sundae's best quality?

She has extremely soft fur, which makes her extra cuddly. Oh, and her fantail. I can’t think of one dog owner who doesn’t love coming home to a wagging tail. It’s heartwarming.

If Sundae could change one thing about South Carolinians, what would it be?

I don’t think she would change a thing!

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

Do you think Leonardo DiCaprio will win an Oscar for The Revenant?

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

Definitely Robin Williams, circa Mrs. Doubtfire. (RIP)

What advice would Sundae give if asked?

She would tell us to keep calm and cuddle. To Sundae, everything can be solved with a warm blanket and a nap.

Visit the Perfect Timing Photography website and Facebook page, and find Valerie Cody on Instagram.

--Marshal Zeringue