Cassie & Emme

Who is in the photo at right?

Me, I’m Cassie. I have a boring 9-5 job during the week, but on weekends I grab my oxygen and adventure, and then blog about it. I have an autoimmune disorder that caused lung damage, so I get rather breathless sometimes, hence, the oxygen. My dog is Emme, a three-year-old lab/hound mix. You’d never know to look at her, but her mom was a 90-pound black lab/bloodhound mix. Obviously, Dad was something completely different.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Today we’re having a home brew on the go because we’re on our way to a hiking trip in southern Indiana. I really have to watch my coffee cup because she will drink it if I don’t keep my guard up!

What's brewing?

I brew Folgers Colombian at home; I’m so not fancy with my coffee. I’m pickier about my creamer. Today, we’re having International Delight’s Cold Stone Creamery in sweet cream flavor.

Any goodies to go with the coffee?

Since we’re about to burn some calories, I feel less guilty about actually having a doughnut with my coffee, so I’m having a chocolate glazed. Emme will probably mooch a bite; she’s a notorious beggar.

How were you and Emme united?

I adopted Emme from Kyle Animal Shelter in Ohio. Her mom, Lexi, was picked up outside Lexington, Ky., by a kill shelter down there. They knew Lexi was about to give birth to at least nine puppies and they couldn’t handle that at the shelter. So instead of putting Lexi down, they found someone to take her. Kyle’s had two hours to come pick her up or they were putting her down.

The next day Lexi had not nine, but 12 puppies. Only one in the litter didn’t make it. Two weeks later, my then-roommate went to pick out a puppy. I went with her, not intending to get a dog until I was out of college. But then I saw Emme curled in a ball at the bottom of the puppy-pile and knew I had to bring her home. She still sleeps curled in a ball snuggled up to someone, and she still grumbles when you try to move her.

Any treats for Emme on this occasion?

Emme is having her current favorite: Duck jerky and cheese and peanut butter crackers. Plus a bite of whatever is on my plate. (Bad habits are hard to break.)

How did Emme get her name? Does she have any nicknames?

While I’m great at naming electronics and inanimate objects, I’m terrible at naming living things. I haven’t actually named either of my pets. My dad named the collie I had when I was a kid, and my best friend named Emme. I just thought it was a pretty name. But nicknames? That’s a whole other story. She has about eleventy billion, including but not limited to: Rabid Hound (because she likes to bark at everything), Flea Bag (because she got fleas when she was a puppy and too young for Frontline), Lazy Bones (because she is your stereotypical lazy hound), Betty (because that’s my Dad’s term of endearment), Emme Lou (not to be confused with Emmy Lou Harris), Cuddlebug (because she’s not happy unless she’s smushed up against someone), Muttblood (like “Mudblood,” when she’s bad) … and so many more. She basically gets called everything but her name.

Who is Emme's best pet-pal?

Emme’s best friend is, conveniently, my best friend’s boxer, Lola. They’re just days apart in age, but Lola is at least twice her size. They’re hysterical when they play together of their size difference, and because Emme is super-jealous of Lola’s long legs. Lola runs like a graceful deer and Emme tries frantically to keep pace.

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

Chewy bone, definitely. She loves squeaky toys – a little too much. They have been banned from most rooms of the house. Her favorite toys are the edible ones, or the ones that dispense treats with a good whack of the paw.

Postman, cat, squirrel...?

Postman, cat and squirrel. And neighbors, children, other dogs, deer, bison … you get the idea. She will take off after anything she gets a whiff of.

You're quite the traveler. Where is Emme's favorite destination of the places you two have visited?

Emme is such a hound dog and she loves following her nose. Her favorite thing to do – other than laying on the porch in the sun – is getting out in the woods and putting her sniffer to the ground. She took her first hiking trip when she was about six weeks old and was following trails and playing in creek beds in West Virginia. She loves trying to catch squirrels in Clifty Falls State Park in Indiana and barking at the bison in Big Bone Lick State Park in Kentucky. I think she really believes she can bag a bison. I can’t convince her that at 40 pounds, they’re just a little out of her weight class. She’s scrappy though, so maybe I underestimate her?

What is Emme's most endearing quality?

Her most endearing quality can also be her most annoying quality, but I can’t help but love it. She has that whole sad, hound face down and turns it on when I’m busy and she wants a good ear-scratching. She lays her little head down and looks up with those big houndy eyes and gives a whimper. I can’t resist. When I lean down to pet her, I get the tiniest little nose touch on the tip of my nose in gratitude. If I ignore the whimper, I get a barely-felt, tiny little pinch of a bite on the back of my elbow followed by a tail thumping on the floor.

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

If she could change anything, she would take away any and all responsibility so she could command all of my time. Never-ending belly rubs!

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

Emme is a strong female, very vocal and never shy about speaking out. (I also suspect she has kind of a potty mouth.) I think a good voice for Emme would someone like Meryl Streep.

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

If I only have one question, I’d really have to make it good, because there are so many things I’d love for her to explain. But I think the burning question is this: “Why are you so anxious?” Everything seems to stress her out.

What advice would Emme give if asked?

Emme is a take-charge kind of girl. If she wants something – she takes it, whether that’s her bone or your sandwich. I think Emme’s advice would be to grab the world by the throat and wait for nothing to come to you.

Visit Cassie's Breathless Adventurer website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kristie Serra & Quigley Adams

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Kristie Serra. I'm a children and family photographer based in Seattle, WA, but I travel throughout the U.S. for photography assignments. My dog Quigley Adams is a six year old male Bloodhound/Treeing Walker Coonhound mix.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Not that we need an excuse to stop by Top Pot Doughnuts, but my hubby just returned home from a trip to Florida.

What's brewing?

Top Pot's Northwest Breakfast tea. It's delicious.

Any treats for you or Quigley on this occasion?

I'm a self-proclaimed donut queen, so I couldn't just get a cup of tea. This visit, a pershing donut was calling my name. Quigley helped himself to the crumbs and then to his favorite doggie treats once we were home.

How did Quigley get his name? Any nicknames?

He came with the name, "Quigley Adams." It was too fitting to change. He's also known around our house as Quigs, Wiggly, Wiggles, Wigs and Sir Wigglesworth.

How were you and Quigley united?

We found Quigley on Petfind.com. We were living in Florida at the time and he was being fostered in Phoenix, Arizona through the American Black and Tan Coonhound Rescue. Quigley arrived in Florida on Christmas Eve, 2008, which my husband arranged to surprise our family.

You've got some great photos of children and families on your website. Who are more difficult to photograph: kids or dogs?

I think it depends on the kiddo or dog. Quigley is the worst! He has zero interest in my camera and ignores me like it's his job. It truly takes a village just to get a good photo of him.

Who are Quigley's best pet-pals?

He loves walking with his cousin-dog, Lucky (a Lab mix). He looks forward to seeing his buddies, Shamus (a Teddy Bear Goldendoodle) and Gus (a German Shepherd) around town and he'll never forget his best-dog friend, Oscar (a Boxer), in Florida.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

He loves his stuffed animal raccoon.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

He would befriend a cat, howl at a postman and chase a squirrel.

What is Quigley's best quality?

Hands down, his ears!

If Quigley could change one thing about Seattleites, what would it be?

He would ban bicycles and motorcycles and insist that everyone carry a cheeseburger in their pocket.

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

Jeremy Irons. We're certain that Quigley is British.

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

I'd ask him about his life before we adopted him. I've always wondered about his life as a puppy.

Visit the Kristie Serra Photography website, blog, and Facebook page.

--Marshal Zeringue

Mandy Jean, Brett & Hank and Kimber

Who is in the photo at right?

Brett, Mandy Jean, Hank (bloodhound), and Kimber (Shiba Inu) This was our first family photo the day we picked Hank up.

Brett is law enforcement and Mandy Jean is a beauty, fashion and lifestyle vlogger at Mandy Jean Chic.

Hank is a 4 year old bloodhound. We adopted him in October of 2011.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Our dogs are our children. They go as many places as possible with us. When we dine out on Saturday afternoons we normally look for locations that allow dogs on the patio. One of our favorite restaurants is the Indigo Crow Cafe in Corrales, NM. Hank also has a huge crush on one of the waitresses that brings him bacon.

What's brewing?

We actually ordered tea as the temperatures are nearing 95 here in New Mexico.

Any treats for you or Hank on this occasion?

Hank loves going to the Indigo Crow Cafe because the chef is a dog lover. Hank says the chef makes the best bacon.

How did Hank get his name? Any nicknames?

When we adopted Hank his name was Duke. Duke didn't fit him. He is very much a lay on the porch and people watch kind dog. Hank just fit him.

He has a couple of nicknames. His favorite is "Angel Baby". Hank can do no wrong in my eyes. He is very much a Mommy's boy. Brett on the other hand just calls him "Hank" or "Hanky".

How were you and Hank united?

In July of 2010 our English Pointer collapsed and passed away unexpectedly. We were devastated. After a year we started thinking about a 3rd dog. At the time we had our 4 year old Shiba Inu and my 11 year old Siberian Husky. We actually decided against getting a 3rd dog because having 3 makes it a little harder to travel. One day in October I decided to look up Bloodhounds on Petfinder. I still really don't know why but I did. The first dog I saw was Hank. He is standing by a pool and just had the most beautiful face.

We adopted Hank via South Central Bloodhound Club. His foster drove 5 hours to meet us in Amarillo, TX. The first time I saw Hank I knew he was my dog. He was supposed to be my husband's. Hank and I bonded and he is definitely my "Angel Baby."

Where does Hank most like to visit on an outing?

Hank loves going to the Indigo Crow Cafe and he also enjoys attending rescue events here in New Mexico to help promote Bloodhound rescue.

Who is Hank's best non-canine pet pal?

Me. Hank is my buddy. On Thursday I had to say goodbye to my 15 year old Husky and it was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. Hank must have felt that I was getting a little depressed because he has been by my side for the last 2 days. This morning I really didn't want to get out of bed and Hank jumped into bed with me for some cuddle time. I instantly felt better.

Hank also likes to watch our Ferret, Tommy. I really don't let them play but they sniff each other. I am not worried that Hank would intentionally hurt Tommy but Tommy bounces around and I am afraid Hank would step on him.

Squirrel, cat, postman...?

Hank loves to people watch. When I open my blinds in my office/craft room he will sit there all day. Just watching people...

Squeaky toy, ball, stick…?

He really doesn't play with toys. He has one lion that is his "baby". He will sleep with it, cuddle with it and if Kimber (our Shiba) wants to play with it he will politely take it away and jump on the bed where she can't jump.

What is Hank's best quality?

Hank loves with all of his heart. You never have to question his temperament. He is easy going and loves to snuggle. He may not be the best dog in obedience class but he listens. He can be stubborn but that is a Bloodhound.

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

He hates sleeping with blankets. When I lay on the sofa I always have a blanket. Hank dislikes sleeping with a blanket. He will sigh and get off the sofa.

I also think he would prefer if I quit watching hockey. I really get into the games and yell at the TV. Hank is a soft dog and doesn't like yelling.

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

Mike Judge. He was the voice of Hank Hill on King of the Hill. I imagine Hank would have a Texas accent. We actually had a 12 year old Bloodhound named Ladybird. They just kind fit together.

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

I would ask Hank if he would like a puppy. I am trying to talk hubby into a Bloodhound puppy and if Hank thought it was a good idea maybe it would help.

Visit the Mandy Jean Chic website, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kristie Blevins & Lula Mae Belle

Who is in the photo at right?

I am Kristie Blevins, a simple mountain girl from Piney Flats, Tennessee. I earned a BS and MA at East Tennessee State University and a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice at the University of Cincinnati. I am currently Associate Professor in the School of Justice Studies at Eastern Kentucky University. My research interests include crime prevention, corrections, and wildlife crime. I admittedly spend a lot of time in prison and jail, but I do so to interview inmates about their experiences. The information I get from them helps me to learn more about their risk factors, motivations, and target selection techniques. I have published the results of some of my research in several academic journals and books. Aside from my research endeavors, I teach three classes each semester. I love working with the students! Outside of work, I love participating in outdoor activities and hanging with my dog. I am also an avid (some might say rabid) University of Tennessee football fan.

Lula Mae Belle is my baby girl. She is a bloodhound, weighs about 105 pounds, and is almost five years old. Although she is definitely a house dog, she loves being outside.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I’m getting a caffeine boost before we go for a nice long walk.

What's brewing?

For me: Green Mountain Island Coconut with Splenda and a splash of creamer.

For Lula: Cold water in a coffee mug to make it feel special.

Any treats for you or Lula Mae Belle on this occasion?

For me: A peach turnover from a local orchard.

For Lula: A pig’s ear and a couple bites of my turnover.

How did Lula Mae Belle get her name? Any nicknames?

Because of her breed and my background, I thought my pup definitely needed a name that sounded a little country. Her registered name is Duchess Lula Mae Belle of Volunteer Nation. We primarily call her Lula Belle or Belle-Belle, but she responds best to “look here.”

How were you and Lula Mae Belle united?

I was living in North Carolina at the time and was looking to adopt a large dog. The local large breed rescues required that applicants have fenced yards before they could adopt from them. Since I didn’t have a fence, I was browsing online for dogs available in the area. I came across her litter and fell in love. I adopted her from a wonderful family as soon as she was weaned.

So...you're a criminal justice scholar and your dog happens to be the breed most commonly associated with sniffing out crime--is that a coincidence?

I get asked this question quite a lot. The truth is that it really is coincidence. I was actually looking for a great dane or mastiff when I found her. I think it is true that everything works out for the best! As for sniffing out crime, I would never put Lula in a dangerous situation. She is definitely a pet rather than a working dog, though we have no problem volunteering on occasions when there is a local missing child or other lost person.

Who are Lula Mae Belle's best pet-pals?

Her best friends Fozzie and Krimpet were our neighbors in North Carolina. We visit with them every chance we get. Here in Kentucky, she loves Sammy, Brownie, Marlin, and Warning. She gets to hang out with them when her Aunt Tina or Uncle J.B. babysit for us.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Lula loves pretty much any toy or stick, but she is obsessed with Air Dog squeaky tennis balls. She plays with them every night, usually instigating a game of keep-away from me. She also loves to chase the red dot (laser pointer).

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Cats for sure. She is borderline neurotic when it comes to cats. The problem is she wants to play with them, and they don’t necessarily want to play back. Once a cat is used to her, she whines at it if it doesn’t want to play or simply sits still.

What is Lula Mae Belle's best quality?

Of course, I want to say everything about her because I think she is the best dog in the world. If I have to choose just one quality, I have to say it is that she shows her love. She is a cuddle bug and gives big hugs—paws on shoulders and nose nestled in my neck. And, you definitely notice when you have been kissed by my slobber monster.

If Lula Mae Belle could change one thing about you, what would it be?

She would request that I spend less time at the office. I think she would prefer that I be at home to cater to and spoil her (as I always do when we are together).

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Lula Mae Belle could speak, which actor should do her voice?

I think Dolly Parton should do Lula’s voice because her dialect is similar to my family’s. I like to think that Lula as picked up our style.

If Lula Mae Belle could answer only one question in English, what would you ask her?

Given that you seem to love all people and animals, why do you act like a big, bad, mean, growling monster until they get right next to you?

--Marshal Zeringue

Jamie Brazil & Frankie

Who is in the photo at right?

That's me, Jamie Brazil, and Frankie. She's a 7-year-old Bloodhound. We're both authors.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We're celebrating Frankie's book, The Wisdom of the Buddhist Bloodhound.

What's brewing?

Medium roast Tully's. I use a Chemex.

Any treats for you or your dog on this occasion?

No treats. We're both on diets. However, I'm pretty sure my husband sneaks treats (not to mention he regularly cooks her special dinners... roast pork, ground round, boneless skinless chicken breast).

How did Frankie get her name? Any nicknames?

She came with the name "Freckles." Freckles??? Frankie is not a Freckle-hound. So I chose Frankie Rose because it sounded similar.

How were you and Frankie united?

We were united through the power of Craigslist. She was a hyper, underweight two-year old at a rescue when I met her. Some friends had a Bloodhound, and my husband and I had just lost our dog. I had a hole in my heart and decided that another dog might help me heal. I wanted a dog with an opposite personality that wouldn't remind me of our Pit-mix -- because no dog could ever replace him. In reflection, I probably jumped back in too soon. On the other hand, Frankie turned out to be a wonderful decision, though we had many challenges in the beginning. We spent a lot of time on training. And yes, she definitely filled that hole in my heart.

Does Frankie do more to help or hinder your writing?

Help. Definitely. She climbs under the desk and plants herself in a such a way I can't get up from my chair. Nevermind having a muse, Frankie has upped my productivity.

Who are Frankie's best pet-pals?

The list reads likes a Romper-Room who's who: there's Leo (Lab mix), and Andy and Lilly (Collies), and Turbo (Pitbull), and Blue (Lab). All neighbors' pets. There's a Cocker Spaniel named Katie who just moved in down the road, too. Can you tell Frankie and I take a lot of walks?

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Stuffies! An Octopus with musical tentacles is her current favorite (though stuffies have short life spans in this house).

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Bloodhounds aren't prey driven, though after she sees a squirrel or bunny she has to know everywhere they went. Now cats, she considers those Supreme Universal Beings which should be equally worshiped and feared.

What is Frankie's best quality?

She has a sweet, loving and gentle personality.

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

If she had a magic wand she'd turn me into a 40 lb bag of kibble. She's starving even after a big dinner. But like I said, we're both on diets.

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

Drew Barrymore.

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

I'd ask her how I could reincarnate as a Bloodhound!

Visit Jamie Brazil's website and blog, and follow her on Facebook.

--Marshal Zeringue

Julie Joyce & Rufus

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Julie Joyce.  I run a link building company called Link Fish Media, based out of Greensboro NC. This is me with Rufus, who is an oversized male bloodhound who happens to be overweight and 6 years old.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I will take any excuse to talk about poor Rufus and do very little work. Since I do a lot of work from home, it's always "Take Your Dog To Work Day" here.

What's brewing?

I have non-trendy coffee, even though I am brewing it with a Keurig. I'm sad because I'd prefer a full-fat iced mocha with whipped cream from Starbucks but Rufus doesn't drive.

Any treats for you or Rufus on this occasion?

I'm having eggs from our backyard chickens. Rufus is having his usual boring breakfast of dry dog food and whatever leftovers he can pick up from the trash can.

How were you and Rufus united?

As a person who swore never to buy a dog from a pet store, I bought Rufus at a pet store. I was in there with my husband and saw him and immediately had to have him. As a proper Southerner, few dogs are more sacred than a bloodhound, and he was huge and clumsy and I just had to have him.

How did Rufus get his name? Any aliases?

He was named after an ancestor of mine, who was a redhead who raised utter hell. His aliases as Buddha, Boo, Ruf, and Buddhasaurus Rexicus.

Cat, postman, squirrel…?

He's recently accepted our cat Dashwood, after only 18 months. I think Rufus is solely responsible for one postal employee quitting her route and one needing anxiety medication. Squirrels calmly run all over his backyard and he never seems to notice but if a person walks within 100 yards of our house, Rufus goes into attack mode. Sadly, we live on a busy street so when he's outside, he's on edge most of the time.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick…?

Well, he can't catch anything because of his gigantic jowls and slobber…no squeaky toy has lasted more than about 5 minutes so I'll go with stick, unless you want to include "pieces of the house."

Does Rufus have a favorite place to go for outings?

He's a bit difficult to take on outings and has started getting so upset at the vet's office that he has seizures, so we're gently introducing him to a quick walk around the block again. He seems to really like areas with overgrown ivy that are full of other dogs' pee.

How well does Rufus get along with your chickens?

He's been outside with them once and ran at them but with him, you never know what he's intending to do. We keep them separated so it's usually Rufus inside beside the glass doors while the 4 chickens line up and stare at him. He pretends not to see them. I think he's embarrassed.

What is Rufus's best quality?

If he likes you, you will never ever be afraid of anyone hurting you, coming into your house, etc. He also tends to stand on your foot and lean on you when he wants attention, which is insanely cute even when he's drooling, although much cuter when he's not.

If Rufus could change one thing about North Carolinians, what would it be?

He'd bring more open-mindedness into our political system so that we weren't always oppressing people who lived different lifestyles.

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

"Why did you once run across the yard with a can of paint in your mouth?"

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

There is only one choice: Sam Elliott.

Visit the Link Fish Media website.

--Marshal Zeringue