Jennifer Roberson & Cassie and Luka

Who is in the photo at right?

My Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Cassie (L) and Luka (R) with me, Jennifer Roberson, at Ventura Beach following a day in the show ring. Cassie is a champion and a mom, while Luka is a young boy just starting his show career.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

It’s a chilly day at the beach and I’m just across the street from the Ventura Fairgrounds letting the dogs just be dogs, wandering along in wet, squishy sand after strutting their stuff in the show ring.

What's brewing?

On the way back from walking the dogs along the beach I’ll grab a hot mocha latte with whipped cream and caramel from a beach vendor!

Any treats for you or the dogs on this occasion?

I will most definitely give each one of them two fingertips full of the whipped cream from off the top of my drink!

How were you and Cassie and Luka united?

Cassie’s mom is a Cardi girl I bred who went to live in Oregon from Arizona. When she had a litter of puppies, her owners gave me pick of the litter—Cassie!

Luka came to me all the way from Russia. I bred his father and sent him to a wonderful home in Finland. Dad went on to make beautiful babies in Europe, and Luka joined me a year ago in Tucson in November 2018, after he and I spent 24 hours at LAX waiting for a new flight after missing our original flight home because of a hold-up in Customs. Luka slept. I didn’t.

How did the dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Cassie’s registered name is Ch. Cheysuli’s Pocket Full of Sunshine. Cheysuli is my kennel name, based on my first fantasy series called Chronicles of the Cheysuli, and Sunshine is the kennel name of her breeders. She’s Pocket Full of Sunshine because she’s bright and shiny all the time. Her nickname is Cassafrass.

Luka’s registered name is Keksband Trade Secret at Cheysuli. Keksband is the kennel name of his breeder, in Moscow, and of course Cheysuli is mine. He’s a Trade Secret because he’s made of 11 secret herbs and spices—wait, that’s KFC. His nickname is Lukachu.

Do your dogs do more to help or hinder your writing?

They help! They are goofy and silly, have a tremendous sense of humor, and they make me smile after writing a demanding scene.

Have any actual dogs ever inspired dogs in your fiction?

Not as yet, but there will be a boy in one of the upcoming Blood & Bone books inspired by a dog I know.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

They would rather chase lizards. Luka’s best friend is a cat—or, rather, Luka is the cat’s best friend--so he wouldn’t chase felines. Just lick them.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

My dogs always de-squeak the toys. And Luka has disemboweled four squeaky ducks. Mostly they love to chew on antlers.

Where is your dogs' favorite outdoor destination?

The show ring! Seriously! They love to go bouncing around meeting other Cardigans at ringside, and to say hello to all the humans showing the dogs. It’s always a challenge keeping them all spiffed up when they want to roll around in the grass with their canine buddies right before they go in the ring. It would be like someone dressed up for a job interview who decides to go through a car wash. Without the car.

What is each dog's best quality?

Cassie is absolutely devoted to me. I am her world. It’s pure unconditional love. Luka believes the world is his oyster, and the oyster’s full of fun. He’s irrepressible!

If Cassie and Luka could change one thing about Arizonans, what would it be?

They would want us to have shorter legs so it’s easier to inspect ears and clean faces.

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

“If there’s anything I can do to make you even happier, what would it be?”

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

Cassie: Meryl Streep. She can affect a wise, been there/done that tone, laced with affection.

Luka: Any young male actor who can speak with a Russian accent, as Luka arrived in the US speaking no English. I had to not only translate dog-speak for him, but Russian dog-speak.

What advice would Cassie and Luka give if asked?

“Feed us. We’re starving. Yes, you fed us an hour ago, but we’re starving anyway. Please rectify that at once or we will be forced to resort to fisticuffs, even though we’re too short to do any damage except maybe to your kneecaps.”

Visit Jennifer Roberson's website.

The Page 69 Test: Life and Limb.

My Book, The Movie: Life and Limb.

--Marshal Zeringue

Ellen Byron & Wiley and Pogo

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm novelist Ellen Byron. My dogs are Wiley and Pogo. Wiley’s the white one, and I like to call him a Corgi-jack-huahua. I don’t know if he has any Jack Russell in him, but he might. He’s definitely part Corgi. The tan-and-white furbaby is Pogo. He’s a Chihuahua mixed with some kind of terrier.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I was taking a break from trying to outline the fourth book in my Cajun Country Mystery series. The doggies are always good for a break.

What's brewing?

I actually don’t drink coffee. I despise the taste of it. Most people who don’t drink it usually enjoy coffee ice cream or chocolates. Not me. I can’t stomach anything coffee-flavored for some reason. So my beverage of choice is a jasmine green tea that I order loose-leaf in bulk from Coffee Direct through Amazon. I drink it straight up, no milk or sweeteners.

Any treats for you or Wiley and Pogo on this occasion?

Oh, there are always treats for my boys!

How were you and your dogs united?

They’re both rescues we adopted from the Amanda Foundation, a Beverly Hills-based animal rescue. We had Wiley for five years before we adopted Pogo. I used the excuse that he needed a friend, but to be honest, I wanted a second dog. I just love them. I’d have a dozen of them if I could.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Wiley came with his name. For some reason, we never bothered to change it. Pogo was named Snoopy by the family that had to surrender him due to financial problems, but our daughter renamed him Pogo because he jumps up and down like a pogo stick. It fits him much better than Snoopy in our opinion.

Do Wiley and Pogo do more to help or hinder your writing?

I find their presence in the room when I write very comforting. But if I make eye contact with Pogo, he either jumps in my lap for affection or brings me a ball to throw. So that can be a hindrance, but it can also force me to take a much-needed break.

Have your dogs inspired the creation of any fictional dogs?

Absolutely! Gopher, the basset hound in my Cajun Country Mystery series, was inspired by our late lamented basset hound rescue, Lucy. I featured a dog inspired by Wiley in a mystery I’ve yet to sell, and I used Pogo as a model for a stray that Maggie, my protagonist, helps save in Body on the Bayou, the second book in my Cajun Country Mystery series. Then I felt badly about Wiley being in a book that hasn’t sold, so I turned him into the pet of a supporting character in the third book in my series, which is currently with the publisher.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Squirrel.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Ball.

Who are Wiley and Pogo's best pet-pals?

Right now, their besties are two little black rescue mutts who live up the street. But their best pal was truly Sophie, a retriever mix who lived across the street. Sadly, she crossed the rainbow bridge about a year ago. We all miss her.

What is each dog's best quality?

Their best qualities are the opposite of each other, interestingly enough. Wiley is totally chill and sweet. Pogo is rambunctious and assertive. He loves to play and demands affection, but in the cutest, funniest way. He’ll jump on your lap and nuzzle, or crawl under the covers and park himself next to you. They’re both super-loving, which is really rewarding.

If Wiley and Pogo could change one thing about Angelenos, what would it be?

The fact that they ignore the stop signs in our neighborhood.

If Wiley and Pogo could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

What else do you need from me to live a happy life?

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

I think Wiley might be Owen Wilson and Pogo, Joe Pesci.

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Spend less time working and more time petting us.

Visit Ellen Byron's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Tiffany & Cocoa

Who is in the photo at right?

Hi there! My name is Tiffany and this is my best bud, Cocoa. I'm a professional Pastry Chef and food writer and I run the website Parsnips and Pastries.

Cocoa is a Tri-Color Pembroke Welsh Corgi. She's 5 years old. She loves cheese, long walks, and rolling in the grass.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We're hiking the Multnomah Falls, a gorgeous waterfall here in Portland, OR. There's a great little stand on the bottom with homemade fudge and coffee. We deserved a treat!

What's brewing?

An Almond Milk Latte.

Any treats for you or Cocoa on this occasion?

A piece of homemade maple fudge for me, a few dried liver treats for Cocoa.

How were you and Cocoa united?

Cocoa and I were united in San Diego! She is my first dog, and she was actually a wedding gift to me. When I was handed her, she peed on me, and I knew it was love at first sight.

How did your dog get her name? Any aliases?

We named her Cocoa because of her beautiful dark chocolate color and markings. And also because I'm a Pastry Chef. Cocoa has way too many aliases to name. A few we call her is Bunny, Buns, Cocoa Sandwiches, Coco Puff, Stinky, etc.

Does Cocoa have a role at Parsnips & Pastries HQ?

She does! She eats all of the scraps that fall on the floor. She also sits next to me and demands pets whenever I really need to get work done.

If I'm making something healthy and dog-approved, she's a good taste tester, too. Although, there really isn't much that she won't eat...

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

All 3. These are her three prime enemies.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

She's never been interested in balls or playing catch. She loves squeaky toys and soft, plush toys.

Who is Cocoa's best pet-pal?

Sadly, her best pet pals don't live near us anymore. But she does have the biggest crush on a cute little Pomeranian that lives in our apartment building. His name is Chunk and he doesn't give Cocoa the time of day!

What is Cocoa's best quality?

She is hilarious. She makes the funniest faces and I swear she has more personality than most people I know.

If Cocoa could change one thing about Oregonians, what would it be?

Maybe not so much about Oregonians, but more about Oregon itself. I'm sure she would love if it didn't rain so much. We usually just brave the rain and go for walks anyway, but she really is a princess and doesn't like when her paws get muddy!

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

Are you happy? I really strive to make my dog happy and to give her the best life imaginable.

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

Oh gosh... definitely someone super fancy and probably British. Helen Mirren! Yes, definitely Helen Mirren.

What advice would Cocoa give if asked?

"Humans, you need to feed me more cheese. You're very stingy with the cheese. You know it's my favorite thing. More cheese!"

Visit the Parsnips and Pastries website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Leza Lowitz & Bingo and Memo

Who is in the photo at right?

That’s Memo on the left, and Bingo on the right, chilling out in the early morning before their first walk. They’re both rescue dogs, so we don’t know their exact ages or breeds. But Memo is about eight and part Shiba Inu and part Corgi (we think). Bingo is about five and part Shiba Inu and part Japanese tanuki or fox-- something totally undomesticated and undomesticatable. Is that a word?

I’m Leza Lowitz and my husband is Shogo [photo left]. We don’t have many pictures of us with the dogs because they don’t stay still for anything, let alone a camera. We write books and run a yoga studio in Tokyo.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Just waking up. Any occasion to crowd the ‘Rents pillow, you know? Give us a soft spot and we’ll take it over. That’s our motto.

What's brewing?

Since we live in Tokyo, it has to be green tea. Anything green tea. Matcha with a traditional bamboo whisk. Or a matcha latte.

Any treats for you and Bingo and Memo on this occasion?

A one-hour walk and lots of love.

How were you and Bingo and Memo united?

It’s a modern love story: Shogo found Memo on the Internet. It was just after the earthquake and tsunami, and she was rescued from the mountains outside of Tokyo. When she got picked up, she gave birth to eight puppies in the rescue truck. All the pups were adopted, but Mama dog was still waiting for a forever home. She looked exactly like our previous rescue dog, Aska, who we’d brought with us to Tokyo from San Francisco, so Shogo was kind of stalking her online to see if she’d get adopted. When she didn’t, we decided to take the plunge. The little one, Bingo, was connected to Memo by some kind of invisible string, even though she wasn’t one of Memo’s pups. There was no way we could separate them. So we brought them both home.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Memo is the name she came to us with. When Bingo came, she was named Karen. Bingo is a totally wild dog, always jumping long distances suddenly with a boing and landing somewhere completely unexpected, like on top of a table or a lap. Needless to say, the name “Karen” was way too boring. At the time, our six-year-old son was learning the English song, “There was a Farmer...” and you know the rest. He gave her the name Bingo.

Do Bingo and Memo do more to help or hinder your writing?

The verdict is still out on that one. They do keep us active though. And laughing.

[photo right: Lowitz and Aska]

Have any actual dogs inspired fictional dogs in your writing?

We wrote an epic adventure story about a female ninja, called Jet Black & The Ninja Wind, in which there is a bad-ass ninja dog named....you guessed it--Aska!

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Definitely cat. Our little Tokyo alley seems to attract people who leave out food for stray cats who drive the girls crazy. We also have a pretty wild garden, so the unwitting cats inevitably make their way into the ninja dog’s den. Then the fun begins.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Do cats qualify as any of the above? Try telling that to Memo and Bingo.

[photo left: The Boy and Memo]

Who are Bingo and Memo's best pet-pals?

A Shiba Inu named Riku and two huge white giant poodles who shall remain nameless because they belong to the local yakuza gangster (in full tattoo--we know because we’ve seen him at the bathhouse) and his paramour. These two characters also have a young black Kai breed male dog, who is totally tough and wild, and of course the girls love him.

What is each dog's best quality?

Memo--Patience.
Bingo--Wildness.

If Bingo and Memo could change one thing about you, what would it be?

Uh. That five letter word called a....leash?

If Bingo and Memo could answer only one question in English or Japanese, what would you ask them?

Inu ni umarette shiawase desu ka? （犬に生まれて幸せですか？）Are you happy you were born a dog? (This is from our ten-year old son).

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

Memo would be voiced by Anthony Daniels, the actor who voiced C-3PO.
Bingo would be voiced by Lady Gaga or Jennifer Lawrence.

What advice would Bingo and Memo give if asked?

Live Free (from Shogo).
Treat People Well (from the ten-year-old).

Visit Leza Lowitz's website, and learn more about her latest novel, Up from the Sea, which BuzzFeed chose as one of five new YA novels you should read this January.

The Page 69 Test: Up From the Sea.

--Marshal Zeringue

Mark Rogers & Chompers

Who is in the photo at right?

That’s me, Mark Rogers, and my friend Chompers the Corgi. I’m a pet photographer from San Francisco and Chompers is a client of mine from a few years back who’s now a good buddy. He’s a three-year old Pembroke Corgi with a pretty-much-constant grin on his face. My dog, Bizzy, is a little jealous he didn’t get to join us but he’s dealing with the cat back at home and couldn’t make it today.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We’re celebrating the release of my new book — Chompers is on the cover — and figuring out our publicity plan. Chompers always thinks better on a full stomach.

What's brewing?

I’m a straight-up coffee guy. No foamed milk or anything fancy-schmancy for me. Being a Corgi, I figured Chompers would be a tea-and-scone type but turns out he’s more into water and biscuits.

Any treats for you or Chompers on this occasion?

I got biscuits for both of us but Chompers ate mine when I went to get my coffee at the counter.

How did you and Chompers meet?

Chompers won a contest a couple of years ago— one of many, he’s pretty good at that — and the grand prize was a photo session with me. I remember going through the photos from that session and thinking two things: 1) This dog is going to be a star and 2) I’d love to have him on a book cover one day. Looks like both have panned out!

How did Chompers get his name? Any aliases?

His name is derived from a combination of his parents' last names. He also likes chomping down on his food. Then there’s the street cred (a corgi needs a tough name to balance out that big smile).

Please tell us about your new book.

It’s called Thanks for Picking Up My Poop: Everyday Gratitude from Dogs and I can’t tell you how pleased I am that I’m almost 50 with my first book coming out and it has the word poop in the title. I’m so proud! It’s essentially a love letter-with photos-to all the great dogs I’ve worked with over the last ten years. I’m always so grateful to be able to do what I do and thought a book based on gratitude and humor was a great way to go.

Are you planning a sequel?

Definitely! I want to call it Thanks for Picking up My Poop #2, which is a little redundant but I still like it! For the next one I’d like to do something that really focuses on rescue animals. There’s a lot of them in this current book but animal welfare is big reason I do what I do and I’d love to see that front and center.

Does Chompers know any of the other dogs featured in the book?

Chompers pretty much knows everyone. He’s a connected guy.

You've got lots of great photos on your website and blog. Do you often do battle the Bay Area's famous fog when trying to get the right light?

I actually love working in fog. Keeps things cool and overcast skies are a photographer’s best friend for the most part. It makes the the light really soft and even so there’s no harsh shadows. That said, it can get too foggy and I’ve definitely had to postpone shoots because the Golden Gate Bridge disappeared for the afternoon.

Who is Chompers' best pet-pal?

Chompers' best pal is his nephew Linus. The two are truly two tri-colored peas in a pod. You know when you hang out with someone too much, you two start looking like each other? Thank goodness they have slightly different markings on their backs or we'd have a problem.

Where is Chompers favorite outdoor destination?

Anywhere with lots of space to run, or in corgi-speak, FRAP! Golden Gate Park, Ocean Beach, the outdoor patios of dog-friendly restaurants. Yes, definitely the outdoor patios.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

A ball is a must, especially a squeaky Kong ball! Chompers will play fetch until he collapses...at that point, give him a few minutes to recharge, then he'll be ready for more! Watching that bunny butt bouncing around is one of the cutest things in the world.

What is Chompers' best quality?

He adores people. Almost to the point where he prefers people to dogs. At the park, he may not always say hello to all the dogs there, but he'll make his rounds to greet all the dog owners!

If Chompers could change one thing about San Franciscans, what would it be?

To scale back the road-rage, especially during the morning commute. Sip your Philz coffee and relax, people!

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

Boxers or briefs?

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

Chompers' mom is lobbying for Morgan Freeman or Ty Burrell. I think I’d have to go with a Back To the Future era Michael J Fox or Bart Simpson.

What advice would Chompers give if asked?

If you're having a bad day, ask someone to give you a belly rub. And a treat. Works every time!

Visit Mark Rogers' website, and learn more about Thanks for Picking Up My Poop: Everyday Gratitude from Dogs.

--Marshal Zeringue

Jenny Chapman & Dexter

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Jenny Chapman. I go by the alias "ZooGirl" online and I am a green and white Michigan State University graduate with my degree in Zoological Sciences. I have done pretty much any zoo-related job you can think of: event planning, zookeeper, veterinary care, you name it! My wildest dream though, is to get involved in the field of zoo education, so that I may use my experience and enthusiasm for wildlife to teach others about the world and all the furry, scaly, and feathery neighbors we share it with. I like to do this through a medium of YouTube videos, blogging, and social media. The handsome furball next to me there is Dexter. He is a 2 1/2 year old (if you ask him, the half counts!) Pembroke Welsh Corgi. He is also an avid MSU fan (smart dog!) and my best friend.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

For me, it's hard to even think about hopping onto the computer without a mug of coffee in my hand! It's always nice to be able to start the day with a nice cup of coffee and some canine company before I tackle my wild project for the day! I think Dexter understands the routine and looks forward to what is usually the only calm point of our day.

What's brewing?

It is hard to imagine a world without Dunkin Donuts. Whether it's sunny or snowing, I am an iced coffee fan all the way. I like it "extra extra," the New England way, with plenty of cream and sugar. I also love coconut and never forget a shot of the yummy flavor in my chilly brew.

Any treats for you or Dexter on this occasion?

Being a corgi, Dexter is very prone to getting overweight. While he does get the occasional treat (he loves peanut butter pupcakes!), I've resorted to using the two meals of kibble he gets a day as a reward in itself. I clicker-train him and because corgis are so food-motivated, he doesn't seem to know the difference between kibble and treats. As long as my voice sounds excited, he's excited!

How were you and Dexter united?

In late winter of 2013, I began looking into PWC litters in my area. I had always been a corgi admirer and finally felt ready to take on the tough job of being a mom to a stubborn, hyper, stubby-legged furball. After a bit of searching, I stumbled across a picture of Dexter and his littermate, the last two red male pups left at a breeder in Western Michigan. The next day, I drove the 2 hours to Paw Paw (yes, that's really the city's name!) and met the 5-week-old babies. I met Dexter's brother first and he was very calm, sweet, and loving. He seemed perfect and I almost didn't want to meet the other pup. The breeder then introduced me to Dexter. He came barreling at me at top-speed, tripping over his awkward short legs, floppy ears bouncing, whites of his eyes shining. All five pounds of puppy fluff hit me like a truck. I believe I smelt like puppy breath for days after. I've often heard that when you go to "pick a puppy," the dog really picks you instead. Now I know it couldn't be more true; it was meant to be. The breeder asked me, "Are you sure you want him?" and I told him I had never been so sure. Despite the breeder's warning about Dexter's larger than life personality, three long weeks later, I brought him home. We've been together ever since.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

I had liked the name "Dexter" for quite a while. It was reminiscent of three TV shows I loved and a popular bowling brand (I had been spending a lot of time at a bowling alley at the time). As I got to know him, he eventually got his full name of Poindexter Parkour Chapman. You see, I love the movie Revenge of the Nerds. Also, ever since Dexter was a puppy, he was very clumsy in how he moved. "Parkour," according to The Office, is "getting from Point A to Point B as creatively as possible" and my new puppy did that to a tee. While I rarely use his full name, he most often hear me calling him "Dex," "Stubby," or sometimes even just "Corgi."

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Dexter has quite a strong prey drive, probably because of his breed's herding instinct. He is very friendly with people but has a tendency to assume any other living thing is either a threat or food. Whether it's a squirrel, bird, or sometimes even a leaf, he is very good at the two professions he gave himself: guard dog and glutton.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Dexter is pretty playful with most toys but especially loves anything that he can eviscerate the cotton guts out of. He even has to sleep with a plushie toy that he mouths like a pacifier until he falls asleep. Oddly enough, he's been a bit skittish around sticks ever since a branch fell out of a tree and hit him in the noggin. He is happy and healthy and I assure you, Dexter has been an exceptionally dopey dog from the beginning.

Who is Dexter's best pet-pal?

My boyfriend's dog, Zack, is by far, Dexter's best friend. They are about the same size and both have high energy levels so they wrestle and play all the time. They generally like each other's company, though if you were to give Dex a choice between Zack and a dog treat, the edible option would win every time. After all, he has his priorities.

What is Dexter's best quality?

My favorite thing about Dexter today is the same thing that made me fall in love with him in the first place: he has an enormous lust for life. He has an energy level I can only hope to experience with all of the Dunkin Donuts on the East Coast. He is playful, hilarious, and always up for an adventure. He is also a "satellite dog." He follows me everywhere and always has to be in the same room as me. I can not even take a shower without him waiting by the door so I never feel lonely, even if I do feel slightly stalked!

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

He would certainly make me less strict about his diet. He would probably also insist that it is futile for me to keep trying to fix the cotton stuffing toys.

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

That's a tough one. I feel like Dex and I understand each other pretty well, but it'd be very tempting to ask him if he understands how much I love him and if I bring him as much joy as he brings me. Although, on the flipside, I've always wondered how he feels about not having a tail to wag (though he does just wiggle his butt instead).

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

I "hear" Dexter's voice all of the time. He's a very opinionated dog. However, when he does try to articulate something, he always has the voice of "Dug" from the movie, Up so it is sometimes hard to take him seriously. As bright as he is when he applies himself, he usually just oozes with dopeyness, ADHD, and klutzyness. It must be why he sheds so much; he's making room for all that personality!

What advice would Dexter give if asked?

Chase your dreams even if your legs are stubby, listen to your heart with giant ears, and wag with happiness whether you've got a tail or not!

Visit the Be-Zoo-Logical blog, Twitter perch, and YouTube channel.

--Marshal Zeringue

Jennifer Caloyeras & Reba and Dingo

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Jennifer Caloyeras and I am a writer. These are my dogs, Reba and Dingo. Reba is twelve years old. She's a mutt involving some sort of Jack Russell Terrier. We adopted her from the South Central Pound in Los Angeles. Dingo is also a mutt. I'm guessing Australian Shepherd and Corgi (we like to joke she is part fox). She came to us from the Milo Foundation in Northern California.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We are celebrating my new young adult novel, Strays, which is about a girl with anger management issues who gets sentenced to a summer rehabilitating aggressive dogs.

What's brewing?

Well, it's the morning here so it's all about the coffee. Just coffee. Black.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

The dogs are licking frozen soup out of a Kong toy.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Reba used to have a brother named Willie, after Willie Nelson. So Reba was a natural fit. Dingo came with her name (the woman who cared for her was Australian). I told the kids they were welcome to change it and they looked at me like I was suggesting something criminal. So Dingo stuck. Sometimes I call her Didi in public.

How were you and your dogs united?

We adopted sweet Reba at 8 weeks old from the South Central pound. We were looking for a puppy 12 years ago. I chose the alpha (Willie) and my husband picked the runt (Reba). Dingo was a puppy at a summer camp in northern California. The boys got to know her as they cared for her on "puppy chore". Then we found out the dogs (rescues from the Milo Foundation) were all up for adoption.

How do your dogs help--or hinder--your work?

Well, since this particular book is about dogs and the human-dog bond, they were very inspirational! If I had to describe what a dog looked like while barking, for example, I'd just look over at my subjects! I need to take breaks when I write, so it's great to take them on walks and clear my head a bit.

Have any actual dogs inspired fictional dogs in your books?

So our dog Willie (who is no longer with us) really inspired the three-legged pit bull, Roman, in my novel Strays. Willie (like Roman) had redirected aggression issues. If he couldn't attack the thing he wanted, he'd attack the person at the end of his leash. This was really a challenge as a pet owner.

As a longtime dog columnist for the Los Feliz Ledger and other papers, what's the craziest subject you've tackled?

I once did a column on DNA detectives for dog poop. Apparently there's an organization that will catalogue your neighbor's dog poop. If you send them a sample of who hasn't been cleaning up after their dogs, they can alert you to the culprit.

Squirrel, postman, cat....?

Birds! They love to play with (tease) our dogs! They swoop down low above their heads and then take off!

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

They love their human family most of all. They also enjoy interacting with my boys' guinea pigs. They're really very sweet with them. Dingo is still a puppy and loves any kind of stuffed animal...either a dog pet or my six year old's. She knows no difference. First she likes to remove the squeaker and then she eats the plushie's face off. Animal instinct?

What is each dog's best quality?

Reba is kind and patient. She has always been so gentle and caring with my kids. Dingo is spritely and silly. She makes such funny noises. She is very playful and loves to retrieve a ball.

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

They would make it so that dogs were allowed in more places! Restaurants here are easing their regulations regarding dogs (some even include dog menus!) but we'd love to be able hike on all trails!

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

Reba would be played by Helen Mirren for sure! Hm... it's a challenge to cast Dingo! I think I have to go back in time and snag Soleil Moon Frye (Punky Brewster) to really encapsulate all of her verve.

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

What do you dream about?

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Remember to seize the day (and potty outside!).

Visit Jennifer Caloyeras's website, blog, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Tessa Arlen & Daphne

Who is in the photo at right?

Tessa Arlen, a historical mystery novelist (Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman), and her dog Daphne, a female, three year-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Daphne is gregarious so every so often, if the weather is fair, we go downtown to Winslow to Blackbird Bakery (a lovely place to idle away an hour or two if you are ever on Bainbridge island) for a cup of tea for me and a biscuit for Daphne. We sit outside under the Strawberry Tree and say hullo to passers-by. This gives Daphne the opportunity for a little gentle flirtation with pedestrians and for them to say “Is she really a corgi – Oh she is? But she is not fat!” This is balm to Daphne’s soul – as she is a little addictive about food – and it gives me the opportunity to remind her that there are compensations for not hogging everything in sight. On one occasion Daphne managed to gently inch a cookie out of the sticky hands of a three year old – it was gone in a trice and I had to quickly congratulate the little girl, before she could scream the place down, on being so nice as to feed the doggie her treat.

What's brewing?

Seattle has the reputation for being the coffee capital of America since Starbucks blossomed here but I prefer a blend called Big Truck, which is roasted, not burnt, and very mellow, but rich in flavor. If I drink coffee I drink a double shot espresso, with one lump of sugar, but really I am addicted to Darjeeling tea with milk and no sugar.

Any treats for you or Daphne on this occasion?

On a rare day I will treat myself to a cheese and onion scone – as Blackbird’s baked goods are spectacular. Daphne’s treat is an infinitesimal dog biscuit, or as I mentioned earlier whatever she can filch.

How were you and Daphne united?

Daphne comes from neighboring Whidbey Island. She was destined to become a show-dog because of her spectacular good looks. But however much Daphne loves people she hated the show ring. So her breeder suggested I consider her instead of a puppy. I completely fell in love with her. She has the most gentle and calm disposition and is deeply affectionate. Given the option of potty training an eight week old puppy, or taking home this gloriously well-mannered two year old girl – well there was no hesitation. She came home with us and has been the love of our lives since then.

How did Daphne get her name? Any aliases?

Daphne was called Sadie when we first met her. It was not a name I felt went well with her decorous and decorative disposition. On the way home we came up with the name Daphne. Since I write about the early 1900s in England this name seemed to just float out there and attach itself to this pretty little dog with her foxlike face and her large enquiring ears. Sometimes we call her Daphne Elizabeth Bott (because of that lovely round little tail-less bum). Sometimes we call her Daphers – usually when she is running at top speed and her ears flap, or Wing-Nut because of her lovely head. We often refer to her as the Daphnage, and our youngest daughter calls her the Duffle-Bag.

Have any Daphne-inspired dogs appeared in your fiction?

Yes. Daphne appears in a novel in progress I am writing at this moment, as the dog of a socialite in the early 1900s in England. She appears as herself.

Does Daphne do more to help or to hinder your writing?

Daphne is my writing companion; she is lying at my feet right at this moment, on her back with her legs in the air. Sometimes if I work for a long time she groans. Mostly she is quiet and supportive. Her copy-editing skills are far better than mine. Her spelling is extraordinarily accurate and her grammar exemplary. She is very kind when she corrects my work. Not even a sigh of despair.

Visit Cat, postman, squirrel...?

We have two cats. One does not look at her so Daphne is courteous enough not to notice her either. Our younger cat fancies himself a good deal and likes to encourage Daphne to chase him through the house shrieking at the top of her lungs. This is horrid behavior which we discourage. Daphne loves all humans so the postman is very welcome, as is Fed-Ex drivers both fast and slow; the UPS lady is a huge favorite and the man who fills the propane tank. Trick-or-treaters and any other riff-raff that have the energy to wander down our very long drive are greeted as old friends. Squirrels on the other hand, as well as anything small that runs, are fair game for hysterical shrieks, bounding through the woodland and the undergrowth and behaving like a hoyden – this behavior is ignored. After all we all have to have a bit of fun sometimes.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

She simply does not understand the concept of retrieving! Neither, when we first got her did she play – which we thought might be due to early potty training. Now she has two favorite things: a squeak toy in the shape of a bee with wings – this she loves to torture … and a bit of antler that she stole from my daughter’s dog. She likes it when we hide these things and she can find them – it’s her inner thief emerging.

Does Daphne have a favorite place to go for outings?

A walk is a delight to her – and we live amidst woodland, little lakes and the Puget Sound shore line – so we do a lot of walking. She also loves car rides.

Who is Daphne's best pet-pal?

Really she is not interested in other dogs. She tolerates them with amusement and only does a little lip curl if there is too much bottom sniffing. She does rather like our outgoing cat. But that’s it.

What is Daphne's best quality?

In her own quiet way she is rather a squiffy little creature. She is a wonderful greeter. When we come home she races for us with such delight, and if we don’t take the proper amount of time to bend down and say hullo, she runs backwards in front of us yodeling until we respond more enthusiastically. She greets everyone who comes to the house with great charm – she should train greeters for Wal-Mart.

If Daphne could change one thing about Washingtonians, what would it be?

Their obsession with wearing fleece, gym shoes and jeans as a sort of uniform. As an ex-show dog Daphne is very conscious of her good looks and her appearance. She likes to be washed and brushed and have her nose wiped and her face washed. So she can’t understand why everyone on the island runs around as if they are off to the gym or as if it never stops raining here. So unattractive!

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

I know it was hard to be part of a herd of ten corgis and spend hours in a crate waiting to go into a show ring. But will you ever get over it, do you think? Would therapy help speed up recovery so we can put you in a crate when we travel long distances?

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

 Oh this is so hard. Well of course it would have to be someone English – with a soft yet clear voice. Kate Winslet has a lovely voice, it is smooth, rounded and has vivacity – or perhaps Emily Blunt as she was in The Young Victoria, but not as she was in The Devil Wears Prada – though Daphne would look very nice in Prada.

Visit Tessa Arlen's website.

The Page 69 Test: Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman.

My Book, The Movie: Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman.

--Marshal Zeringue

Keith Michael & Millie

Who is in the photo at right?

The tall one smiling is Keith Michael, and the short one smiling is Millie. The tall one is sitting in deference to the short one's Pembroke Welsh Corgi stature. The tall one is an eclectic person: dance production manager/ballet choreographer/birder/photographer/writer/NYC nature walk guide. The short one is simply Millie. (Photo by Maggie Berkvist.)

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

It's morning. We've just been out for our wake-up walk to our "backyard": Hudson River Park. Millie's doing a final edit on my new book Take Me to the River: A Birder's Year in the West Village. (Millie suggests, "More paragraph breaks please, so that there are more opportunities for treats. And more photographs of Me.")

What's brewing?

Even though early morning, it's already summer-steamy outside and a tall iced glass of Peet's Coffee French Roast is just right.

Any treats for you or Millie on this occasion?

Millie considers any occasion a treat-deserving one—getting her leash on, getting her leash off, barking, stopping barking, sitting by my side, sitting in her "place"—she's an equal-opportunity treat-seeker. Happy Hips Duck Breast is her favorite, though she'll accept Zuke's Mini-Naturals when an arbitrary (to her) slimming-down is imposed on her.

How did Millie get her name? Any nicknames?

Millie arrived as Millie, and after getting to know her, she did, indeed, seem Thoroughly Modern. Her name also stayed within our theme of an earlier grand dame corgi, Gracie, honoring the wit and comic genius of the brilliant Gracie Allen. Millie's most prevalent alter-egos are: Milton, for less than girlish days; Fluffy, for when she's sprinkled with tufts from shedding (we could knit a new corgi twice a year from her castoffs); and Gracie, for when our hard-wiring takes over.

How were you and Millie united?

Millie was a rescue corgi who came with "issues." David and I had hoped that with her "settling in" many of those quirks would resolve themselves. Four years later, after regular training, and oodles of affection and tolerance, her feisty impulses are curbed but far from cured. She's still a quirky dog: unshakably possessive of food, white-eyed at most touching, and fearful of nearly anything that is outside of her routine. Sigh. Still, her cuteness is winning.

You're an avid birder: is Millie more of a help or hindrance in that endeavor?

On our walks in the neighborhood (my West Village Bird List is up to a back-patting 99 species!), since I'm looking up for the birds, and she's looking down for a snack from the street, there's not much conflict. Though if I stop too long, the pull of her leash on my binocular- or camera-holding hand can be challenging, or if I stop too long talking to someone who has just crossed the street gushing, "Hey, are you the guy that writes those birding articles in WestView? It's the first thing I read when I get the paper. And is this Millie?" then conversation-drowning barking ensues. Still, she is my writing muse; the hook of my monthly articles is reporting on the avian sightings around the blocks I walk with Millie—while she gets to be her crabby treat-seeking self.

Where is Millie's favorite outdoor destination?

Definitely to walk along the piers of the Hudson River at sunset.

Who is Millie's best pet-pal?

See the "Cat, postman, squirrel…?" answer below.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Fetch to her is a foreign language. The intellectual pursuit of helping with choreography is more her métier.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

The exterminator in the apartment means that she has to leave until he's finished—though if they meet outside, then they're best friends. Any dog from the building passing by her door is akin to dropping the gauntlet—though outside, these same canines can be met with guarded curiosity (or not). And going to the vet! Yikes.

What is Millie's best quality?

Contrary to her corgi breeding as a herding dog, she actually likes a very quiet life with a dependable routine, and her inscrutability is a charmed blend of mystery and, luckily, hilarity. Oh, and did I mention that she was cute?

If Millie could change one thing about New Yorkers, what would it be?

"Please, throw more chicken bones into the street!"

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

Debbie Reynolds, of course.

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

What was your life like before I met you (please answer in no less than Henry Jamesian detail)?

Visit Keith Michael's website for more information about his books, photographs or New York City WILD! Nature Walks.

--Marshal Zeringue

Bethany and Jason & Wilhelm, Brychwyn and Huxley

Who is in the photo at right?

The Cascadian Nomads: two active humans, Bethany and Jason, and three busy canines, Wilhelm, Brychwyn and Huxley. Bethany gets paid to be a physiology/fitness nerd and Jason makes a living as an A/V geek. Wilhelm is a 6-year-old miniature dachshund, Brychwyn is a 2 1/2-year-old Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Huxley is a 1 1/2-year-old rough collie. Everyone is a boy except Bethany. We all blog with our crazy psittacine, Leo (not pictured and also a boy) at Cascadian Nomads.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

This is the first weekend that we have been in town in a while. Fiddlehead Fine Foods and Cafe serves our favorite coffee and has great biscuits. Sometimes it is nice to just be in the 'hood.

What's brewing?

This is Seattle, after all, so we started with Velton's Bonsai Blend mocha's (Bethany's was iced and Jason's was hot) and we ended with cups of Velton's Twilight Blend. If we didn't need sleep, we'd drink Velton's coffee 24 hours a day!

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

We won a bag of Chewed Shoes Peanut Butter Bacon Bites at a Doney Clinic fundraiser that have been the dogs absolute favorite "I will do anything for that" treat. We had exactly three left so this seemed like the perfect occasion for the dogs to enjoy them!

How did your dogs get their names? Any nicknames?

All the dogs call names come from their breeds country of origin and their kennel names are all songs from Bob Dylan's "Blood on the Tracks." Wilhelm [photo left] truly came to us by "A Simple Twist of Fate," nothing describes Brychwyn better than "Tangled Up In Blue" and Huxley's dam is named Storm so he had to be "Shelter From the Storm." We also like the meanings of their call names: Wilhelm means "protector," Brychwyn means "speckled holy one" and Huxley means "outdoors-man." If we listed all of their nicknames, our coffee would get cold.

How were you and your dogs united?

We got Wilhelm as Jason's first puppy and as a dog for Tynan (our founding dog; a rescued Chesapeake bay retriever/lab mix) to share all of his wisdom with. Wilhelm was devastated when Tynan died so we got Brychwyn to keep him company. And we got Huxley [photo right] to be our big dog and watch over us all as our shepherd. It kind of takes two dogs to fill the huge void Tynan left. Wilhelm loves his new pack and there is so much joy in training and traveling with such a diverse group.

Where do your dogs most like to visit on an outing?

Definitely the pet store (we have three within walking distance.) Even if we don't have a plan to run a pet store errand, when we round the corner on a pet store block, the dogs try to lead us there!

Do the dogs have any non-canine pet pals?

Gryphon is our sage, 19-year-old cat who shares his many years of life experience with the dogs, Amelia is our agile, 5-year-old kitty who plays tag and wrestles with the dogs and Leo is our Triton cockatoo who drops food to and yells at the dogs. Leo also does a great impression of a squeaky toy.

Squirrel, cat, postman...?

Definitely squirrel. Our neighborhood mail carriers give the dogs treats.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Stick: readily available no matter where we roam.

What is each dog's best quality?

Wilhelm is a genius who tries to hide it and get by on his adorable looks. Brychwyn [photo left] is a genius who wishes his brains were more obvious than his good looks (and he tries to tell us all but we just hear barking.) Huxley is a genius who will very soon turn the door knob with his snout and leave us to go to college for a doctorate in Manipulative Psychology. Those are their best personality qualities... their best physical qualities is that they all have the cutest, fluffy butts and adorable feet!

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

They'd like to see no more illegally unleashed dogs. Maybe they just feed off of us human Cascadian Nomads being upset by illegally unleashed dogs, but it does bother the dogs to see it happen (they bark and whine... Walk interrupted!) And if Cascadians don't stop illegally unleashing, then dogs will stop being welcomed in as many places in Cascadia and we know our dogs wouldn't want that.

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

Huxley: Mike "Stuart McKenzie" Meyers
Brychwyn: Wallace "Vizzini" Shawn
Wilhelm: Mark "Neidermeyer" Metcalf

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

Why? And they'd likely answer "because," we'd all get a good chuckle and snuggle up for a nap. Or, they might be totally frank and explain all of life's/dogs mysteries, we'd all get a good chuckle and snuggle up for a nap.

Visit the Cascadian Nomads website, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Ann Bonwill & Arthur

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Ann Bonwill, picture book writer, and this is Arthur T. Dog, canine wonder. Arthur is a 7 year old male Cardigan Welsh Corgi (picture Queen Elizabeth's lovelies, but with a tail).

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We're celebrating the release of my new book, When Mermaids Sleep. Arthur's favorite part is the fairies sleeping in flowers, since his ancestors served as fairy steeds.

What's brewing?

I am a tea drinker - preferably strong mint. Arthur will drink anything - preferably muddy puddle.

Any treats for you or Arthur on this occasion?

I'll have a scone with clotted cream and jam, in honor of Arthur's birthplace. He'd like chicken and cheese, but since he's a long dog and needs to watch his weight (back problems) he gets canned green beans instead.

How did Arthur get his name? Any nicknames?

Arthur seemed like an appropriate name for a Welsh dog favored by royalty. His "official" name is Kilvroch Be A Clown, and he certainly is one! Arthur has many nicknames, including T-Dog and Fuzzy-Nose. He's also been called Rabbit by curious children. My husband wanted to name him Thunder Scar, which couldn't be more inappropriate given his scaredy cat ways.

How were you and Arthur united?

We got Arthur as a puppy [photo right: Arthur the puppy] while we were living in England. He's from a show dog family, but because of his slight stature and turned out feet, he was not deemed "show quality." He's star quality to us (and to the judges who awarded him first place for "friendliest puppy who doesn't jump up!"). When leaving his first family he cried all the way home. We cheered him up by composing a song for him, which we often sing to this day.

Does Arthur do more to help or to hinder your creativity?

Arthur helps my creativity by making me laugh every day. He warms my feet in the winter, and he sometimes pushes me out of the bed which allows for late night writing fests.

Who are Arthur's best pet-pals?

Arthur does a friendship dance with any dog we meet on our walks. Excited-Anxious-Excited-Anxious he's like a pogo stick and knows nothing of playing it cool.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Squeaky toy - specifically Katie's Bumpers.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Most definitely squirrel. He is oblivious to all others, including giant pheasants walking across his path in England and herds of roving rabbits in Germany.

What is Arthur's best quality?

Loyalty. Arthur is steadfast and true. In proper herding dog fashion, he doesn't like to let any of us out of his sight, and he prefers the whole family to be in the same room (everyone on different floors drives him to distraction).

If Arthur could change one thing about Virginians, what would it be?

Our weather. He's not much for the heat, and salt laden snow hurts his paws. He'd also like for us to take more walks, play more tug-of-war, and drop more food.

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

Face to face, Woody Allen. Behind a closed door, Samuel L. Jackson.

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

Why do you lick ____ (the couch, our toes, the dishwasher, insert anything stationary here)?

Visit Ann Bonwill's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Katherine Keenum & Palmer

Who is in the photo at right?

The gorgeous hairy one is Palmer, a three-year-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi. His extra-long coat makes him a “fluffy” in the Corgi world, i.e., pet quality not show quality (what is wrong with the AKC?). The person is me, Katherine Keenum, a writer whose debut novel, Where the Light Falls, was published in February 2013.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Palmer and I were inspecting our almost-finished new kitchen (note the absence of knobs or pulls on the drawers and cabinets). What better way to celebrate a new countertop than to hoist him up to see where the coffee machine could now sit and then put it to work?

What's brewing?

One of the sad and almost unbelievable handicaps for a writer is my need to limit caffeine, so it’s decaffeinated French Roast from Ed Hyder’s Mediterranean Market in Worcester, Mass.

Any treats for you or Palmer on this occasion?



Is there any occasion when there is not a treat for Palmer? He will eat just about anything (unfortunately including pencils), but the box of Milk-Bone Mini’s with a Corgi on the front is our reliable stand-by. For myself, I keep McVitie’s Digestive Wheat Biscuits handy.

How were you and Palmer united?

After our previous dog died in December 2010, I got in touch with his breeder, who in turn put me in touch with a colleague, who just happened to have a winter litter. My husband and I were not sure we were ready for a new puppy yet, but we went to visit in February 2011. Need I say more? It is a joy to us that Palmer’s and Badger’s bloodlines cross. (And the late Badger is now called Uncle Badger within the family.)


How did Palmer get his name?

Palmer’s dam lived on the Brimfield/Palmer line in Massachusetts, and his sire on the Springfield/Palmer line. Since Palmer is a name in my family tree, my husband suggested it on our drive home. I was already using it for my heroine in Where the Light Falls. No one will believe me, but it was months and months before I made the connection. All the children in the neighborhood assume Jeanette is named for the dog.

Any aliases?



Pomme, Pummy, and Mr. Boy.

Does Palmer do more to help or to hinder your writing?


I write in the morning on a regular schedule. Provided I have given him a chew stick after breakfast and played with him for ten minutes, Palmer settles down very companionably beside my computer.


Cat, postman, squirrel...?



Ah. If the mail arrives in the morning, my writing is interrupted by barking hysteria, but at least he doesn’t chew first-class mail. He goes for the advertisements. (In a lot of ways, he’s the smartest dog we’ve ever had.)

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?



Palmer likes to chase balls and play tug-of-war with squeaky toys. We call him the A.D.D. dog because he goes rapidly from one toy to the next during a play session—except with sticks. Those he eats. At first, neighbors were alarmed when he was clearly swallowing them, but they keep him occupied when I stop to chat on a walk and so far his digestive system has been equal to the task.

Does Palmer have a favorite place to go for outings?



No question: Moore State Park in Paxton, Mass.

Who is Palmer's best pet-pal?



We have a neighbor whose part-Great Dane named Duke outweighs Palmer four to one. I’m never sure whether Duke even knows he has an adoring follower when we go for walks together, but I only have to say “We’re going to go see Duke” to send Palmer sprinting to the front door.

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



He thinks I’m a fascist to make him walk properly on his leash instead of allowing him to switch sides at will in wild criss-crossing dashes.

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


How many words do you really understand?!?


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

Oh, boy, this one has me stumped!

Visit Katherine Keenum's website and blog.

--Marshal Zeringue

Nicole J. Georges & Beija

Who is in the photo at right?

Me, Nicole J. Georges, and Beija Georges, my fifteen year old corgi/sharpei mix.

I'm an illustrator, cartoonist & pet portrait artist.

Beija doesn't have a job, but since she has become a teenager I've given her a sort of teen persona, so she is really into Justin Bieber and she can't wait to get her her learner's permit.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I have coffee near Beija every day, we just decided to have it together this morning. I got an espresso machine for Christmas, so every day is a reason for celebration.

What's brewing?

I'm having an Americano from my home espresso machine, with soy creamer. Beija does not drink coffee because of all the caffeine.

Any treats for you or Beija on this occasion?

Beija is having a bowl of turkey stew this morning. She had a cancerous bump removed in October, and since then her road to recovery has included a homemade diet. I've been vegan for sixteen years and
have never cooked meat in my adult life, so sacrificing a stew pot to my dog was something I did grudgingly. But after feeding her stew, she's got a new lease (leash) on life. She gets so excited every morning for her turkey stew, and she hangs out in the kitchen Sunday nights when I make her batch for the week.

How were you and Beija united?

I got Beija for my high school boyfriend when I was 16. I got a job at Toys R Us to afford a dog (fun fact: in 1997, minimum wage in Kansas was about $3.75 I think?), and got her from a run-down shelter in Kansas City, Kansas, where she exhibited all the qualities dog books tell you to avoid in a shelter dog. She was in the back of her kennel, scared and huddled, but when I talked to her, her tail started thumping against the metal walls. I took her out for a walk and her ears inflated, and I knew I needed to get her! Also, they said she was part dachshund, which was a lie, but it worked.

My boyfriend's family changed their minds at the last minute (about allowing their son to have a dog), and after trying and failing to rehome her several times, I was stuck with Beija. She kept getting returned to me because she was so bad, but I would never take her back to the shelter. It was fate! She is my horcrux.

How did Beija get her name? Any aliases?

My high school boyfriend named her. He said it was Polish for "stranger" (he was really into Camus), but I don't think that is actually true. But it does mean "kisses" in Portuguese, which is sweet.

How long have you been creating pet portraits? Do you have a favorite?

I made my first pet portrait in 2003 or 2004, as an apology gift for a friend whose dog Beija jumped. I started making them professionally a couple of years later. I just finished one for my recently departed friend, Wishbone [with Nicole, photo right], which is my current favorite. Other than that, one that sticks out in my mind is this dog Fred, whose person asked that he be painted with his owners each in little frames around him that said "Mommy" and "Daddy". I thought that was funny.

Does Beija figure prominently in your new book, Calling Dr. Laura?

She does. The book is autobiographical, and Beija was around for everything that happened.

When we were soliciting blurbs, we got one from Rachel Maddow, and the first line said: "I would please like to adopt Beija, or at least apply for dogsitting duties."

Does Beija have a favorite place to go for an outing?

Beija loves to go to the beach, where she can get great traction and runs like a puppy. She is actually very fast, in case you couldn't tell by her small legs.

Squeaky-toy, ball, stick...?

She has a long stuffed dog toy that my mom ("Grandma") gave her probably five years ago. She takes good care of her toys, and likes to hoard them in her bed when she is not mouthing them for guests.

Who is Beija's best pet-pal?

Beija has a friend named Emmett, a pit-bull mix, who is her true love. I don't know about romance, but he is balanced and friendly and when they are together she is constantly bowing and wagging her tail, requesting play.

It's rare for her to find a dog that doesn't want to kick her butt. She throws shade to other dogs in ways that humans can't see.

What is Beija's best quality?

Beija is very intelligent & intuitive, and behind closed doors, the sweetest and most loyal dog.

If Beija could change one thing about Portlanders, what would it be?

She would ask them to please respect her boundaries and stop trying to pet her, even after I tell them not to. People love to push past my warnings with "But she's so cute", or "she's wagging her tail", and then she leaps at them, barking. I tell them, "If she was ugly, I wouldn't have to tell you not to pet her!"

If Beija could speak in the movie about your life, who should do her voice?

Someone like Taylor Swift, but more valley girl. She'd say: "Nicole's, like, really cool."

If Beija could answer just one question in English, what would you ask her?

"Will you please just trust that I am not abandoning you when I tie you outside of a place? It's been fifteen and a half years and I've never abandoned you! You don't need to bark and scream every time I walk inside to get a coffee!"

Visit the official Nicole J. Georges website, blog, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue