Janelle Fitzpatrick & Harper and Thor

Who is in the photo at right?

Harper (Boxer, girl, almost 3) and Thor (Rhodesian Ridgeback, boy, almost 3).

Janelle Fitzpatrick, creator of The Stair Barrier and owner of Better Options Company.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Working on the back porch with a little help from my 4 legged babies…who don’t quite fit on the couch.

What's brewing?

Starbucks vanilla coffee with vanilla creamer frothed!

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

Harper has been very sick the last few weeks and pretty much refuses to eat anything but fresh roast beef….so breakfast for her was roast beef and medicine. Thor got the leftovers.

How were you and your dogs united?

My husband and I actually met while he was walking our old ridgeback (Harley) when she was just a puppy. It is a solid and true way to pick up the chicks! We got a boxer (Olivia) a year later. Olivia died way too young and Harley was set in her ways—she was used to being first kid and when we had our children, she just never attached to them the way they wanted. About 6 months after Harley passed (my kids had been asking for years, every letter to Santa, birthday wish, etc. for a puppy), my husband and I decided to surprise our children with a puppy for each of them. It was one of the best days ever! We said we were going to the apple orchard to pick apples, but we got lost and stopped at a house for directions (with GPS, my kids weren’t buying it…but nevertheless it was all I had) and I walked out with Harper. They were absolutely freaking out. Then I said, “Now we are going to pick apples” and then we drove to get Thor and there were Ridgeback puppies running everywhere—the kids were on to me at this point. Harper and Thor were actually born on the same day, 20 minutes apart. My husband and I had already met both of them prior. Thor was the biggest, calmest (at the time) lover—he just kept coming over for attention. Harper—just that face, it was love at first sight.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Harper is named after Bryce Harper (my son’s favorite baseball player) and Thor is after…the almighty Thor/Chris Hemsworth movie, because he was so big. The funny thing is Thor is the biggest baby ever. He literally cries all day about everything; it is exhausting, but funny. He is a huge wimp; Harper is half his size and just rules his world. She rules all of us. It is her world and we just live in it. Harper is called Slumpy and Slumpster, because with her sad eyes she looks sad and it is just fun to say.

Do your dogs have a role at The Stair Barrier headquarters?

When I worked out of my house, I would say Harper was head of HR and Thor was my IT guy. We are currently looking for more space and something closer to my house. I am hoping to be able to bring at least one to work daily.

What is each dog's best quality?

Thor is just a huge lover and very protective of the family. He is the biggest baby except when he thinks someone is being hurt. Harper is so smart and feisty, such a huge personality.

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

That I worked less and was home more. Luckily my husband works from home and takes such great care of them.

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

Thor—why do you cry all the time? Harper—Do you really think you are the boss around here? I don’t know the answer to Thor, but Harper would say Yes!

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

So funny….we talk for our dogs all the time in the craziest voices. I am not a naturally funny person, but my kids crack up when I talk for the dogs (which I do daily). Thor—would be Scooby Doo or Owen Wilson (I think he did the voice for Marmaduke). Harper, would be Martin Lawrence as Big Momma (in Big Momma’s House).

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Thor would say to “eat more beef” and Harper would say, “work less, play more.”

Visit The Stair Barrier website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Larry D. Sweazy & Brodi and Sunny

Who is in the photo at right?

I am Larry D. Sweazy. I write the Josiah Wolfe, Texas Ranger series (Berkley). My dogs are Brodi, 11 [photo below left] and Sunny, 6 [with me, photo right] -- both are Rhodesian ridgebacks.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

The dogs join me my office every morning for that first cup of coffee, and for that second and third cup, too.

Brodi is now 11 years old -- has he slowed down much?

For a 100 pound dog, Brodi's doing pretty well for his age. We still walk twice a day, though a little slower than we once did. He has some health issues, a little arthritis and megaesophagus, a breed defect, which we manage with how we feed him. Brodi has always been a watcher instead of a chaser, so being active has always been a challenge for him. Sunny is the athlete, the chaser.

Are there any dogs in your new novel, The Gila Wars?

There's not. That's something I realized at the end of writing that book. Josiah Wolfe is never home, and as a Texas Ranger, he's always on the trail going from one end of the state to the next, so it would be difficult for him to own a dog. Maybe the next series, but that might prove to be difficult, too.

I do have an idea for a series about a boy and his dog, maybe I'll get to that one of these days.

How do your dogs help, and how do they hinder, your writing?

I can't think of a way they hinder my writing at all. The walks help get me outside, away from my desk, and keep me in shape (mostly) as much as it does them. Their presence is a great comfort. One, or both, are usually not far away from me. I think they make me a better human being, so hopefully, that helps me be a better writer.

If Brodi and Sunny could change one thing about Texans, what would it be?

I'm not sure how to answer that question. They've never met a Texan they didn't like.

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

Nigel will be so glad to be included in this. Actually, I'm positive Nigel has a British accent. I think he might be the Black Adder (Rowan Atkinson).

Brodi would most definitely have Sam Elliot's voice, badass and comforting at the same time.

Since Sunny's full name is Audie Murphy See You At Sundown, he'd sound like the war hero and actor he's named after, Audie Murphy.

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

Maybe...what's the worst thing you ever smelled?

The problem is one question wouldn't be enough, would it?

Visit Larry D. Sweazy's website and blog.

Learn more about The Gila Wars, the latest novel in the Josiah Wolfe, Texas Ranger series.

Coffee with a Canine: Larry D. Sweazy and Brodi and Sunny (April 2011).

--Marshal Zeringue

Elsa Watson & Lucky

Who is in the photo at right?

That’s Lucky and me, Elsa Watson, sitting out in our front yard. Lucky’s 13 years old, and he’s a mix of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Black Dog of Mystery. I’m a 40 year old writer (breed undetermined.) My most recent release is The Love Dog, which features a dog named Apollo who was modeled largely after Lucky. (Except that Apollo is a golden retriever. You just have to roll with the inconsistencies.)

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

It’s Sunday morning, and our family is doing the usual. My husband and I are typing on our laptops, and the baby and both dogs (Lucky and Kota) are napping in their respective beds. Lucky had kind of an eventful night last night. He had a tough time getting his dog bed into the right shape and had to spend about an hour pawing and digging at it, and then he and Kota were positive that they heard a wild animal/intruder/alien attack outside, so there was a lot of barking. I’m guessing they’re both on the tired side this morning.

[Read: Coffee with a Canine: Elsa Watson and Kota]

What's brewing?

I’m having jasmine green tea (my favorite) and my husband’s having a diet coke (he’s crazy!).

Any treats for you or Lucky on this occasion?

Lucky is snoozing rather than drinking or dining, but he did have a special snack this morning when the baby threw him two big handfuls of scrambled eggs and toast. It always pays to hover under the high chair….

How did Lucky get his name? Any aliases?

He came with that name – and yes, we do hear a lot of jokes from people like “I thought all dogs named Lucky had three legs.” Ha, ha. We adopted Lucky when he was three, and he’d had a full life before us with a family and two little kids. I’m guessing one of his kids named him Lucky. During the first year he was with us, he would whine and tug at the leash every time he saw a toddler, which was pretty heartbreaking. Now we have a toddler and I often catch Lucky with a look on his face that says “Tell me again why I thought this was fun?” Seriously, though, he and the baby get along really well – and they share an affinity for sitting on mats and small squares of carpet.

How were you and your dog united?

We adopted Lucky from a nonprofit rescue organization called Furry Tail Farm. There were a lot of dogs there (many of them were not adoptable), and I think he was pretty anxious to get out of there. From the second he arrived at our house, he seemed immensely relieved – and determined to do everything perfectly. He’s never once had an accident in the house and he follows all directions to the letter. He has a large sense of responsibility – it drives him crazy when Kota gets in trouble. I can just imagine what he’s thinking. “I know I was left in charge, but I couldn’t stop her!”

Please tell us about your new novel and Lucky's connection to it.

The Love Dog is about a dog (Apollo) who stars on a reality TV show called – you guessed it – The Love Dog. Apollo, like Lucky, is a very sensitive dog who desperately wants everyone to be happy. On the show, he works to help repair broken relationships. Then Samantha Novak arrives, determined to prove that the love dog is a hoax. It’s up to Apollo to help her see that true love really does exist and that he really is a “love dog.”

Who is Lucky's best pet-pal?

He’s good friends with Skylos, the Sheltie who lives with my writer friend Suzanne Selfors. They’re walking buddies. There are also a number of dogs he sees at work: Lucy, Annie, Chi Chi, Franny, Inky. When Lucky sees another dog, it’s crucial to him that he get to stop and sniff….but once he does, he’s generally ready to move on. He’s not one for chit chat.

He also has a love-hate relationship with Franco Pancake, the dog next door. Franco comes over almost every day and poops in our yard. Lucky loooves chasing him off. I think they both live for it, really. It keeps things exciting.

Does Lucky have any non-canine pet-pals?

I wouldn’t call them friends, per se, but he appreciates the chickens. He gets pretty riled when the chickens are upset (like, say, when one of them has to do something dangerous like….lay an egg!).

Squirrel, cat, postman...?

I’ve never seen him chase any of these. As my husband Kol, says, Lucky’s more of a lover than a fighter.

[photo right: Lucky and Kol competing for Pet and Owner Lookalike at a fundraiser for PAWS of North Kitsap and Bainbridge Island.  They won!]

But one place where he really comes into his own is at the dog park. He considers it his duty to referee all questionable dog activity at the park. Out of control excitement? Not allowed! Mounting? Not appropriate!

He does a lot of barking.

What is Lucky's best quality?

He’s an amazing companion when you’re sick. I used to joke that he was getting his master’s in nursing (by correspondence course.) He has really strong natural empathy, and that just blossoms when someone feels bad. He’ll lie by your side for hours on end, just making you feel better. It’s amazing.

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

More walks! More car rides! More adventures! No matter how much he gets, it’s never enough.

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

Someone with a really soothing, deep, melodious voice like Alan Rickman.

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

“Lucky, can you hear me?” That’s only partly a joke. He’s started to lose his hearing this year, and we’ve been pretty puzzled trying to determine what he can and can’t hear. I’m convinced that most of it’s selective….

Visit Elsa Watson's website and Facebook page.

Read--Coffee with a Canine: Elsa Watson and Kota.

--Marshal Zeringue

Larry D. Sweazy & Brodi and Sunny

Who is in the photo at right?

That would be Brodi, age 9, and Sunny, age 4, both full-blooded Rhodesian ridgebacks.

I’m Larry D. Sweazy, a full-time writer. I write a Western series, Josiah Wolfe, Texas Ranger for Berkley (the third novel, The Badger’s Revenge, comes out April 5th), as well mysteries (that novel will be out next February), short stories, and non-fiction articles. I also write back-of-the book indexes for major publishers like Pearson and Cengage. You can find out more about me at my website.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We have coffee every morning. It’s always brewed and waiting for me when I awake. I make a cup, and head to the office to check my email and start work. Both dogs usually follow me, and argue about who gets the soft, comfy chair that day. Brodi usually wins, but not always. The loser lays under the desk at my feet.

What's brewing?

A couple of years ago I had some serious stomach issues, and one of the recommendations was that I give up caffeine. So, I did. But being such a creature of habit, and lover of the taste of coffee, I switched to decaf. I don’t get a jolt, but I still get the comfort of my routine and the pleasant aroma of coffee filling the house.

Any goodies to go with the coffee?

Usually not. I like to enjoy the coffee, and then eat some breakfast about an hour later.

Any treat for your dogs on this occasion?

They get a treat after we get back from our morning walk, and I get my second cup of coffee.

How were you and your dogs united?

We owned a basenji for 16 years. When she died, the house was empty, so a couple months later we went looking for another dog. I was spending more and more time at my desk, so I knew I needed a bigger dog that could hold up to some serious walks. I wanted a reason to get out of the house and exercise, so we settled on Rhodesian ridgebacks as a breed. We were already familiar with African dogs, so it seemed like a good fit, and it has been. Brodi was an easy adjustment, and became an integral part in my exercise routine, and really, so much more. Sunny came along five years later to keep Brodi and I moving at a good pace.

Have your dogs had any influence on your writing?

Good question. They are a comfort, always present, and always ready for a walk. I work out a lot problems when I walk, so they’ve probably helped me plot a few novels.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Brodi is really Baruti, which is Swahili for Teacher. It’s been an appropriate name. Brodi is calm, a thinker, a protector, and is always pointing the way to a mellower, more fulfilled life. He is my ambassador. Sunny is actually named after an Audie Murphy movie, Seven Hours Until Sundown, and because his effervescent personality has been sunny from the first moment we saw him. He’s the happiest dog I’ve ever met. And happier if he’s touching you. He’s an 85 pound lap dog.

Cat, squirrel, postman...?

Wouldn’t be a cat. We have a black cat, Nigel, that we rescued. Both dogs love Nigel, and I’m sure Nigel truly believes he is a ridgeback. Which is odd, because ridgebacks hunt lions in Africa. Postman, no way, especially if he is a giver of attention. Squirrels, oh yes, Sunny loves to chase squirrels. Brodi thinks about it, but the thought is usually gone by the time Sunny chases the squirrel up a tree. No squirrels were harmed in the making of that statement. Ever.

Tennis ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Ridgebacks are funny, they’re not really toy kind of dogs. They have bones they chew, but that’s about it. I bought all kinds of stuff for them to play with when they were puppies, and after a couple of fetches, they were just bored. Now, if I tie a white plastic trash bag onto a fishing pole (ala lure coursing) and toss it, spin it, whatever, Sunny will play until he drops. Such nonsense is beneath Brodi, though.

Where is your dogs' favorite places for outings?

That’s easy. We have a woods close by with trails through it that runs along a nice creek.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

That would probably be Fritz, a schnauzer, who lives in the neighborhood.

What is each dog's best quality?

Loyalty, and they don’t bark a lot. Just when something is out of the sync.

What is each dog's proudest moment? Most embarrassing?

A few years before Sunny came along, and it was just Brodi, he proved himself greatly. Along with hunting lions, ridgebacks are known as really good watchdogs. Now, Brodi has always slept downstairs…at his own choice. He could have slept anywhere he wanted to. One night, at two in the morning, Brodi came up the stairs, stopped at the landing, and barked. He had never done that before, and I woke up instantly. He barked again. Just once. And I got out of bed. By the time I made it to the landing, he had already went back down the stairs, and was standing beside the front door, staring out the side glass window. I asked him what the problem was and he didn’t acknowledge me, he just kept staring out into the darkness. So I stood there with him, and sure enough about two minutes later, two guys edged alongside a vacant house across the street, and broke into the garage. I called up to my wife, and told her to call 911. She did, and police caught the guys. So, how Brodi knew what was going on across the street, and was smart enough to wake up still amazes me. He’s never done anything like that since, but I trust his bark, and I trust his instinct with people. Sunny has never done anything quite so amazing, other than not tear up anything important, but his constant companionship and love is something to behold. Neither one of these dogs could ever embarrass me, they’re both just really cool, and I’m happy to share my life with them.

Watch the trailer for The Badger’s Revenge, and learn more about the book and author at Larry D. Sweazy's website and blog.

The Page 69 Test: The Badger’s Revenge by Larry D. Sweazy.

--Marshal Zeringue

Anna Mitchael & Isabella

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Anna Mitchael and I am a writer. My first book called Just Don’t Call Me Ma’am just came out last month, so for the time being I am also a book-promoter. Isabella is three years old and I met her for the first time at a Rhodesian Ridgeback rescue — she’s mostly got Ridgeback in her, but there’s something else running through her veins, that’s why she doesn’t have the traditional ridge you usually spot in her breed. She doesn’t have a formal occupation, but she keeps me sane and that keeps her pretty busy… it’s practically a full-time occupation.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We go for a walk every morning, even if it’s only to get the paper. Of course, I live on a ranch so walking to get the paper is a 20-minute affair.

What's brewing?

I don’t drink coffee, but there’s always a pot brewing in the house so I get the benefit of waking up to the smell. I start out with orange juice, Isabella sticks to water – she’s not very high maintenance until she starts chasing her armadillos (that’s usually an afternoon affair).

Any goodies to go with the coffee?

If someone else is cooking them.

Any treat for Isabella on this occasion?

Breakfast is warm-up for her day on the ranch, this is when she starts to get excited for what’s coming next.

How were you and Isabella united?

My house was broken into and at the time, I was living alone in a big city. I decided that it was time I go for some companionship and so I started looking for a pet to come share my home. As soon as I found Isabella I knew we were stuck with each other.

Does Isabella have any influence on your writing?

Other than distracting from it? I’m kidding. I write about Isabella for the occasional article and quite often on my blog… mostly I’d say that her influence is to make me a more content person – so obviously that’s going to come through in whatever I’m writing at the time.

Squirrel, cat, postman, armadillo...?

Armadillos. By the truckload. She can’t get enough of them. When people who live around us hear the stories of her chasing down armadillos they always ask if they can borrow her for a day or two… even though I know she’d probably enjoy a fresh batch of ‘dillos to chase, I’m selfish and don’t like to give her up—even for a weekend.

Tennis ball, stick, squeaky-toy...?

Isabella doesn’t do dog toys. Those would seriously interfere with her assumption that she’s a human.

Who is Isabella's best pet-pal?

My boyfriend has a dog named Dolly, and she and Isabella are best friends. Now that we all live under the same roof they are … hmmmm. How should I say this. Best friends with benefits? Is that a term that people use or is it just what people in college used to call friends who occasionally made out in the back of keg parties?

What's Isabella's most endearing quality?

She is always Isabella, you never see her change her demeanor or her behavior for anyone. I like strong personalities, so for me, that is very endearing. I could probably take a few lessons from her tenacity to hang on to who she is in any situation…. Heck, maybe it’s safe to say that most humans could.

Anna Mitchael is the author of Just Don’t Call Me Ma’am, a memoir that details her twentysomething experience living and working in cities across the country. A reformed nomad, Mitchael has now returned home to Texas. She will tolerate y’all but reserves the right to raise hell when anyone calls her ma’am.

Among the early praise for the memoir:

“Worlds away from her small-town roots, Anna Mitchael spent most of her twenties pretending she wasn’t from the South. In this engaging memoir, a reluctant belle finds peace in her past and reminds all of us that it’s not only okay to bloom where you’re planted, but sometimes it’s the very best decision you can make.”
—Celia Rivenbark, author of Belle Weather: Mostly Sunny With A Chance of Scattered Hissy Fits

Read the daily chronicles of Mitchael's life at her website and blog.

Writers Read: Anna Mitchael.

--Marshal Zeringue