Kitty Zeldis & Dottie

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m an author; Kitty Zeldis is the pen name I’m using for my newest novel, Not Our Kind. I’m holding Dottie, a purebred Pomeranian who celebrates her first birthday on December 14, 2018.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Dottie and I are coffee buddies every morning. She’s still very frisky so I have to hold her on my lap while I’m drinking my coffee. Otherwise she’ll trot to the window and yap her little head off!

What's brewing?

Carmelito or Vanilla latte that I make at home with my nifty Nespresso machine. I take a double hit of milk and drink it from a small bowl, like a Parisian.

Any treats for you or Dottie on this occasion?

Dottie gets a dog biscuit or a treat with green tripe that is supposed to aid in digestion though it’s not at all clear that it’s doing anything.

How were you and Dottie united?

Dottie was previously owned by a breeder. But because of a small defect (an underbite), the breeder decided not to show or breed her, and she let me have her.

How did your dog get her name? Any aliases?

My daughter and I just thought it was a cute name that suited her. We liked its retro quality. We sometimes call her just plain Dot. Or we give the name a Russian twist: Dotska.

Does Dottie do more to help or hinder your writing?

I’d say more to help. Her puppy energy and entertaining antics put me in such a good mood.

Has Dottie inspired the creation of any fictional dogs?

Not yet, but soon...

Cat, postman, squirrel…?

Postman, because she can bark at him. Cats scare her.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick…?

Squeaky toy is her favorite though she likes a ball too.

Where is Dottie's favorite outdoor destination?

She likes to go almost everywhere, though places with super slick floors upset her.

Who is Dottie's best pet-pal?

She’s not too dog friendly; she's more of a people dog.

What is Dottie's best quality?

Her affectionate nature. She wants to be friends with everyone, and is lavish with her licks!

If Dottie could change one thing about Brooklynites, what would it be?

She’d tell them to quit using those little scooters you see all over—she hates them!

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

Why does she bark hysterically whenever the mop comes out of the closet?

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

I’d go for Reese Witherspoon.

What advice would Dottie give if asked?

There’s always time for a tummy rub.

Follow Kitty Zeldis on Facebook.

My Book, The Movie: Not Our Kind.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kendra Elliot & Max and Liesel

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Kendra Elliot, an author, mom, and procrastinator. I have two Pomeranians. The one on the left is seven-year-old Max and the other is five-month-old Liesel.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We have coffee every day together. Liesel is an early bird who gets us up at the latest by six—Max prefers to sleep in and doesn’t join us until later. Liesel is hyper; Max is mellow. When Max goes down the stairs in the morning, he always stops on the second to last stair and looks over his shoulder at me because Liesel is spazzing out at the bottom, thrilled to see him and unable to climb up the stairs. The look in Max’s eyes says “Dude. There isn’t enough coffee in the world to deal with her first thing in the morning.” As soon as he hops off the last step, she attacks and chews on his ears and feet. It’s all in love, but Max doesn’t appreciate it first thing in the morning.

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

There’s nothing better than the soft snore of a dog nearby when I’m at my desk…but I don’t care for the hyper barking at every dog that walks by on the sidewalk.

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

I’ve mentioned this on Facebook before. Max would sound like Hodor from Game of Thrones and Liesel would be Elmo on fast-forward.

What's brewing?

Decaf drip brew. I gave up caffeine a year and a half ago (waits for exclamations of horror). During the withdrawal, I was in physical pain for a few days and then I was perfectly fine. I was shocked to discover I didn’t need caffeine to function in the morning once I shook the addiction. It was more that I needed a hot cup of something in my hand. I occasionally indulge in caffeine when we’re at a coffee shop.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

Today we have dried turkey jerky for the dogs and jicama sticks for me. I’m trying to lose some vacation weight otherwise I’d be having anything chocolate.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

It’s hard to agree when there are five people to please. Max was easily voted on and the only holdout was my oldest daughter who wanted to call him Jasper after a vampire in Twilight. Liesel was hard. We had a huge list of names and voted and voted again. By process of elimination, Lila won. I didn’t like the name and overruled to the protests of my kids. A few hours later Liesel came up. Two of my daughters immediately shrieked yes, and I made an executive-mom decision. I’d always loved the name from The Sound of Music.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Both dogs love to play with our cats and bark their heads off at the postman and squirrels.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Liesel loves balls and leaves. Max prefers to simply sit and chew on snacks.

Who is your dogs' best pet-pals?

Max’s best pal is our cat, Paris. We got her as a kitten last fall and she immediately attached herself to Max. Liesel loves Max to death, but right now he finds her a bit ridiculous.

Have any actual dogs ever inspired dogs in your fiction?

My main characters in Chilled, Buried, Known, the Callahan & McLane series, and the Rogue River series have dogs. I can’t say they were based on any particular dog. I had a stray attach himself to the main character in the Callahan series because he seemed so unlikely to have a dog.

What is each dog's best quality?

Max is mellow and loving. Liesel shows us how to find joy in the simple things…like leaves.

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

Liesel would want me to play with her 24/7, and Max would prefer that I give more snacks and back scratches.

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

Why must you bark at the doorbell every time??

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Max: eat more peanut butter
Liesel: Play! Play! Play!

Visit Kendra Elliot's website.

The Page 69 Test: A Merciful Truth.

Writers Read: Kendra Elliot.

--Marshal Zeringue

Alexa Ashenhurst & Bella and Minnie

Who is in the photo at right?

I am Alexa Ashenhurst. I am an Event Planner working in Higher Education. Bella, a Morkie (Maltese/Yorkie) is a 10-year-old Diva. Minnie, a Pomeranian, is a 6-year-old puppy mill rescue and total sweetheart.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We have recently been given a reprieve from our usually scorching Midwest summer weather, so we took the opportunity to enjoy some time in the back yard.

What's brewing?

I’m a simple Midwestern girl, so I enjoy drinking plain old black coffee.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

My girls are spoiled and are almost always guaranteed at least a little of whatever breakfast I am eating. Today we are enjoying some Toast with just a little butter.

How were you and your dogs united?

My family always had Old English Sheepdogs when I was growing up, I have never met one that I didn’t love and while I enjoyed our very large family dogs (so much so I am hoping to add one to my fur family in the not too distant future), I wanted something a little smaller, which lead me to do some research into small breed dogs. I found Bella [photo left] right as the Morkie craze was hitting and I knew I just had to have her. She’s been an amazing companion following me from high school, to college and now into full blown adulthood!

Minnie was found at a no kill shelter about 45 minutes from where I lived, by my boss at the time. My boss showed me her picture, because she was interested in adopting her. As soon as I saw her, I knew I had to have her. My boss graciously allowed me to fill out an application and in a matter of days I was on my way to pick her up. She was a puppy mill rescue and had a broken leg, which eventually had to be amputated (yep, that’s right, Minnie only has three legs!). She had to have 7 teeth removed, had open sores on all of her paws from the wire cage, which she was never let out of, embedding into her paw pads and causing infections. By the time I got her at the tender age of 4(ish) she had already had multiple litters of puppies. I was familiar with the horror of puppy mills before I found Minnie, but after seeing what had been done to such an extraordinary dog, I have an even more fiery hatred for them and pet stores that sell animals from mills (which is almost 99% of them). The shelter told me she would be timid and terrified but as soon as we got home, I quickly found out she is quite the opposite. She is fearless, adventurous and so loving!

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

There really was no special formula when naming either dog. It was simply looking at them and thinking, they just strike me as a….

Bella’s name is sometimes shortened to Bell and every now and again I refer to her as Boo. Minnie generally stays Minnie, but when I’m feeling lazy I might call her Min. When I am talking about them collectively or posting pictures to Instagram (which is an almost daily occurrence), I use the hashtag MinnieBells.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Anything that makes any sound, they are unfortunately very vocal dogs. Barking is a constant at my house.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Sock Monkeys; they have about 5 and take them everywhere they go. If you tell Bella to go get her Monkey, she knows exactly what to do.

Do your dogs have a special pet-pal?

While they are certainly each other’s best friend, they also enjoy spending time with Sophie, a Bichon Frises mix, and her sister Lola, a Shih-Tzu.

What is each dog's best quality?

Bella is so in-tune with my emotions, she knows exactly when I need an extra snuggle or kiss. Minnie is just such a lover. She is still discovering all the advantages of life outside of a wire cage, so watching her explore, learn to play and create trust with humans is so amazing to witness.

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

They would probably ask me to stop taking so many pictures of them. It probably gets annoying when I am constantly calling their names to get their attention for a photo-op. Unfortunately for them, I will never stop taking almost constant pictures of my girls!

[photo left: Minnie]

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

I would ask them if they were happy and thought they had a good life with me!

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

Chelsea Peretti would voice Bella for sure and Jenny Slate would make a great Minnie.

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

They would probably tell me to worry less and try to live in the moment more.

--Marshal Zeringue

Yona Zeldis McDonough & Willa and Holden

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Yona Zeldis McDonough, a novelist and children’s book author. With me is Holden (left) and Willa (right). He is nine and she is ten; both are purebred Pomeranians. Before I adopted them they belonged to a breeder and were bred together, so I call them husband and wife. They had a puppy named Beebee. I got to meet her and she was darling!

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Unless I have an early appointment and have to race out, we have coffee together in my dining room every morning.

What's brewing?

We have a snappy new Nepresso maker in lipstick red and I love it. Every morning I use it to make a vanilla latte with an extra hit of steamed milk. I call it Heaven in a Mug.

Any treats for you or Holden and Willa on this occasion?

I might toast a slice of my favorite spelt bread and spread it with apple or pear butter that my daughter brings me from a farm stand near Tivoli, New York; the dogs get bits of dried lamb lung, which they adore. The pet store owner where I buy it refers to it as “puppy crack.”

Are there many dog-friendly cafes in Park Slope?

Not nearly enough! Dogs are not welcome at most, which means I can’t stop in if I’m with them. I would never leave them tied up on the street—perish the thought!

[photo left: Willa]

You have a new novel that's just hit the bookstores. Are there any dogs in it?

Yes, there is an elegant and very well-behaved black standard poodle named Emma; she has a significant presence in the story. And there is also a brief, cameo appearance of brindle Pom pup named Panda.

What's the latest thing that Holden and Willa did to help your writing?

Just having them in my presence helps my writing. I feel good when I see them, and if I am stuck with a scene or a chapter, there’s always a little dog time to distract me.

How about to impede your writing?

When they bark hysterically at someone walking by!

Who are Holden and Willa's best pet-pals?

Holden [photo right] is not really into other dogs much though on occasion, he spends time in upstate New York with my daughter and she says he’s met some new doggy friends up there. Willa has no interest in other dogs.

And their favorite humans?

I am by far Holden’s favorite in our household. He seeks me out and wants to chill with me wherever I am. I often look deeply into his dark, soulful eyes; I feel we are communing.

For Willa, it’s my husband Paul. She circles, coughs, and whimpers to get his attention and she wants to sit in his lap or be held by him 24/7. She’s also very coy and even flirtatious (if a Pom can flirt!) in his presence—I think she’s in love with him!

What advice would Holden and Willa give if asked?

Willa: More belly rubs please!
Holden: Ignore the vet when he says I’ve gained weight and have to cut back on my portions.

Learn more about the author and her work at Yona Zeldis McDonough's website.

Coffee with a Canine: Yona Zeldis McDonough & Willa and Holden (October 2014).

Writers Read: Yona Zeldis McDonough.

The Page 69 Test: The House on Primrose Pond.

--Marshal Zeringue

Cynthia Lord & Milo

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Cynthia Lord, author of many children's books, and my eight-year-old Maltese Pomeranian mix best friend, Milo.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Milo and I are getting ready for work. We get up before sunrise, because that's when I get my writing done. But first, coffee for me and a treat for him.

What's brewing?

I keep it simple, regular coffee with milk and a little sugar. But I have a collection of special mugs and I choose one every morning. Some mugs remind me of places I've been, books I've written, or they were gifts from special people.

Any treats for you or Milo on this occasion?

Always! Milo has allergies so the treats have to be grain-free. Lucky for me, he is not at all fussy. If it comes in a crinkly package, he's a fan!

How were you and Milo united?

A few weeks after my beloved Bichon died, I was still feeling lost without him and my husband said to me, "Maybe we're just dog people." So I started looking in Uncle Henry's (a swap and sale magazine in Maine) and there was a listing for puppies. My daughter and I drove up and brought him home.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

One of my daughter's favorite books was The Phantom Tollbooth, and the main character's name is Milo. So that's where his name came from. We call him lots of names, though: Mo, Mr. Mo, and even Mojo Jojo.

Does Milo do more to help or hinder your writing?

He's a big help. I have a writing shed in my backyard, and he gets so excited when I say, "Let's go to work!" He brings so much enthusiasm with him that he always makes it fun.

Has Milo inspired the creation of any fictional dogs?

Characteristics of Milo are in all the dogs I write about. We also have two bunnies and a guinea pig that have inspired characters, too.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Postman! Woof! Woof! Woof! Milo has been keeping that horrible man from stepping foot past our mailbox for eight years.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Squeaky-toy, but only sheep or hedgehogs. Milo is most particular.

Who is Milo's best pet-pal?

Muffin, one of our bunnies, likes Milo very much.

What is Milo's best quality?

He loves his family with his whole heart.

If Milo could change one thing about Maine, what would it be?

He is only 13 inches from his paws up to the tip of his ears, so it doesn't take much snow for it to be over his head. He'd like to skip winter.

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

Why do you bury your rawhide toys in the yard and then dig them up months later and try to bring them back inside the house?

What advice would Milo give if asked?

The best things in life are simple:
Napping in a square of sunlight on the floor,
The sound of a familiar car in the driveway,
Being beside the ones you love.

And if you can't be with them, pull their coat off the chair and bury your face in it.

Visit Cynthia Lord's website, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Laura Grace Weldon & Winston and Cocoa Bean

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Laura Grace Weldon. I'm a writer, editor, and unrepentant library addict. My new book is a collection of poetry titled Tending. I live on Bit of Earth Farm with humans, livestock, and two high personality dogs -- Winston (four year old Pomeranian) and Cocoa Bean (8 year old Toy Poodle).

[at right: Weldon and Winston]

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Post-walk relaxation during which I read and dogs sprawl.

What's brewing?

My husband roasts small batches of coffee twice a week and it tastes so damn good that it has ruined me for coffee served anywhere but home. He orders all sorts of different raw beans, so what we drink is always changing. This week's beans are Nicaragua Dipilto Finca La Laguna.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

These guys go for a walk most afternoons, either down our rural street or off to the park. After the walk they demand dinner. They nosh on raw ground meat, a little cheese, and a smidgeon of whatever vegetables I've got around. After dinner it's Festival time. I don't know how this became de rigueur, but after they've eaten and gone out they each get a piece of Hare of the Dog or Lucky Premium jerky. As I open the pantry door to get out their treats they run happily room to room with uncontainable eagerness. They observe this ritual with dedicated fervor. A day cannot pass without the post-dinner Festival. Afterwards we sit and relax. Coffee for me, full tummies for them.

When you last appeared on the blog back in 2010, you reported that Cocoa Bean was "clever, affectionate and a bit neurotic." Have those neuroses faded or gotten more interesting?

Alas, the neuroses have not faded. Cocoa Bean tends to wear a forlorn expression, like someone who reads nothing but Dostoyevsky. He trembles at the slightest stress and shakes like a paint mixer on car rides. When I go out back to the cows and chickens my family reports that he puts up his chin and howls mournfully. If I leave in the car he positions himself on the back of the couch, watching the driveway for hours and sometimes refusing to eat or drink until I get back. Let me hasten to add, his life truly isn't stressful. He's treated with warm affection and, because I work from home, has my near-constant companionship.

Do Winston and Cocoa Bean do more to help or hinder your writing?

Help. Cocoa Bean has a lair under my desk where he likes to spend the day. Winston's favorite nap spot is up against the rungs of my chair. This makes it hard to move, so I'm stuck working.

Have any actual dogs inspired dogs in your published work?

I love dogs. All dogs. They can't help but appear in my writing, Here's a poem inspired by Cocoa Bean in my recent collection.

"Calling the Dog"

Following messages left in leaves soil air
he wanders too far.
When I call he pauses
quickening
to hurl fullness and glory
ahead of the self
like whales breach tigers lunge hawks soar.
There’s nothing but an arc
between hearing his name and springing
toward the one who named him.

I want this completeness.
I want to feel 100 trillion cells spark
from my body in answer
to what we call spirit.
I want to taste
the shimmering voltage course
from every rock tree star.

A moment before reaching me
he unsprings,
back to golden fur and brown eyes
arriving tongue first.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

I expect them to bark about such threats. Sometimes they let down their guard. Like the other day....

My hand was on the door to let the dogs out. I just so happened to be belting out Ode to Joy with improvised lyrics lauding the delights of peeing in the snow. This was meant to encourage the dogs to go out (perhaps to escape my singing). Unbeknownst to me, an innocent FexEd guy was on the other side of the door, finger poised to ring the doorbell.

I hope this qualifies him for trauma-related workman's comp.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

These guys don't care for toys. Not even sticks. They play an energetic version of chase-through-the-house and love to run in the yard. They sniff derisively at the dog toys we keep for them, that is, unless a visiting dog noses in their toy basket. Then, suddenly, they care a great deal.

Who are Winston and Cocoa Bean's best pet-pals?

They prefer their humans and each other. Visiting dogs inspire them to hide.

If Winston and Cocoa Bean could change one thing about Ohioans, what would it be?

Winston wants all Ohioans to visit and adore him. He reigns over parties, enjoys greeting people on walks, and in a season of well-deserved glory appeared onstage in several Wizard of Oz performances. He got fully into the character of Toto, came when called by that name, skipped with Dorothy at the right time, and stayed in his assigned basket despite a scary shrieking witch, flying monkeys, and loud fake thunder.

Cocoa Bean [photo right] would like all Ohioans to stay away and never, ever visit his home. He doesn't want them to knock on the door or drive down the street, he most certainly doesn't want his humans to leave him to visit other people.

If Winston and Cocoa Bean could answer only one question in English, what would you ask them?

Tell me about the sounds you hear.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life in which Winston and Cocoa Bean could speak, who should voice them?

Winston would expect nothing less than a top star. He'd probably agree to Bradley Cooper or Robert Downey Jr. He'd expect the actor to grow lush hair in order to get into character.

Cocoa Bean would need an actor well-versed in voicing angst. I'm thinking Woody Allen.

What advice would Winston and Cocoa Bean give if asked?

Both advise people to take up gardening. They love it when I'm planting and weeding. They investigate, chase, and forage for tasty things like fallen tomatoes.

Learn more about Laura Grace Weldon's poetry collection, Tending, and her handbook of alternative education, Free Range Learning.

Visit the author's blog, website, Facebook page, and Twitter perch. Just don't knock on her door. She may be singing.

--Marshal Zeringue

Laura & Lily

Who is in the photo at right?

Hello! My name is Laura and I am currently teaching kindergarten and first grade. Besides teaching, I also work on a site called TeachersPayTeachers and have a teaching blog where I share my experiences. Lily, my sweet sheltie-pomeranian is one year old. She is my pride and joy!

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I love to spend time walking Lily, taking a trip to Petsmart, or visiting her doggy friends which include an English mastiff and a pug. You know what else we love to do? Hang out on the couch. We are currently on the couch snuggling and playing since it is freezing rain outside!

What's brewing?

I don't drink coffee every day, but my go to is definitely Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks French Vanilla. I am currently drinking Lipton lemon tea with honey - soothing for my soul!

Any treats for you or Lily on this occasion?

Lily loves the Authority dog treats from Petsmart... they have chicken wrapped apples and sweet potatoes that she loves to take her time munching on.

How did Lily get her name? Any nicknames?

It took me and my boyfriend Mike a little bit to think of the perfect name for Lily because we couldn't agree on one! I tend to go with more cutesy names... but when I suggested Lily, it just seemed right. Mike agreed and it was set. (Laughs) I have tons of nicknames for her... Lulu, Boos, Lily pad, Mama, and so forth.

How were you and Lily united?

Lily was for sale at a local pet store... and I really did plan on adopting a puppy, but she just felt like ours. Mike really pushed for her, and the rest was history. I also knew Lily would be the perfect name because the girl who sold us Lily (who is now our friend) is named Liliana.

Has Lily ever visited your kindergarten class? If so, how did it go? If not, how do you think that might work out?

I wish! I want to bring her in at some point because the kids really want to meet her, but I haven't had the time slot to do that. I work about 25 minutes away, so I wouldn't be able to just quickly drop her off after a little bit and a whole day of school would be too long for her. I think it would work out fine... Lily would be very excited but nervous at the same time, but my kids are so respectful that they wouldn't scare her. She loves kids.

Who is Lily's best pet-pal?

As mentioned before, Lily has two best friends - a pug named Zoey and an English mastiff named Bear. Zoey is my parent's dog and she is sweet as can be. Lily will tease her and be a little too playful at times! And I know what you are thinking... an English mastiff?! The size difference is amazing [see photo right, from New Years] but they are the best of friends. Bear is a big sweetheart.

Where is Lily's favorite outdoor destination?

Lily loves the outdoors. She loves to run wildly through the grass for walks or jump into mounds and mounds of snow until I yell it's time to come inside. We often go for walks around a pond nearby and you can see the happiness in her face.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Lily is all about the squeaky toys! To get your attention, she will drop the toy in your lap and back up so you can throw it. If you aren't paying attention to her, she will squeak it so fast that you can't hear anything else.

She loves the crinkly soft toys as well (and so does mommy and daddy because they are quiet!) Lily loves the outdoors like I had mentioned, so she also loves bringing in sticks and rocks. She thinks she's funny.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Bear is our landlord's dog so he sees Lily a lot. When they are outside together, Bear will bark at people walking by our fence - Lily now does this as well and follows his lead. It's the cutest thing!

What is Lily's best quality?

Lily has so many amazing qualities but I think her best is that she is very smart and obedient. She knows so many different tricks and commands, and she will always stay by my side on or off a leash.

She is loving, caring, and very sensitive.

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

She would definitely wish that mommy was home more! I work so much that I try to spend as much precious time as I can with her. She is my biggest fan when I come home, and the saddest little peanut when I leave!

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

Lily is smart, energetic, caring, and funny... I think that she would have the voice of someone that had these characteristics - Mike suggested Anna (Kristen Bell) from Frozen! I think that's a great pick.

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

Wow, that's a tough one... I would maybe ask her to tell me a few things that would make her life that much better. I already spoil her and love her to pieces, but I would want her to communicate with me if she needed anything else.

Visit the TeachersPayTeachers website and Laura's teaching blog.

--Marshal Zeringue

Yona Zeldis McDonough & Willa and Holden

Who is in the photo at right?

Yona Zeldis McDonough, a novelist and children’s book author. Dogs are Willa, a female Pomeranian who is about eight, and Holden, a male Pom who is seven.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I always have a morning latte and in the warm weather, an iced coffee late in the afternoon. I have to feed Willa and Holden before I have my morning brew because otherwise they bark so much I can’t enjoy it. But once they are eating peacefully, I can make that eagerly anticipated a.m. beverage. So they are eating while I am sipping at my dining room table.

What's brewing?

For the morning coffee, it’s a nifty Nespresso coffee maker that uses pods; the iced coffee is a chicory blend from Cafe du Monde in New Orleans. My husband introduced me to it and I just love the robust, ever-so-slightly bitter flavor.

Any treats for you or Holden and Willa on this occasion?

Yes, when breakfast is over, they get dog biscuits and in the afternoons, I give some some broken up quinoa crackers, which make them insane with joy.

[photo left: Willa]

You have a new novel that's just hit the bookstores. Are there any dogs in it?

There is indeed a Pom in You Were Meant for Me. His name is Fluff and he’s a bit of a bad boy: snapping, snarling, chewing on slippers etc. The fiancé of the character who owns him wants to get rid of him but they manage to come to an understanding that accommodates both man and beast.

Your new book for children, a biography of Laura Ingalls Wilder, has a dog pictured on the cover. I know the author had several dogs in her lifetime. Which one is that on the cover? Do the dogs appear in the biography?

That’s Jack, the bulldog her family had when she was a child. And yes, he appears in the biography. He’s a loyal and stalwart little guy.

Last year you shared that the dogs yap like mad at the postman. How's he holding up?

He seems to take it in stride. And to their credit, it’s all bark and no bite. In fact, I’ve never even known Holden to growl, though once in a rare while, Willa does.

We know Holden and Willa love your backyard. Do they have a favorite destination away from home?

Not for Willa. She is a true homebody. But Holden likes to take walks around our neighborhood (Park Slope) where he is much exclaimed over and admired.

Is Brooklyn generally a dog-friendly place?

Boy is it ever! So many dogs here, dogs runs in playgrounds and the park, shops that offer free biscuits and set out bowls of water for strolling pooches. Dog watching is fun here for that reason; I have lots of dog pals in the ‘hood.

[photo right: Holden, fresh from the groomer]

What's the latest thing that Holden and Willa did to help your writing? How about to impede it?

Once in a while, a barking jag may interfere with my concentration. But mostly I find them delightful little companions who inspire me and bring so much happiness to my writing, and my days.

In 2012 I asked you: if Hollywood made a movie about your life in which your dogs could speak, which actors should do their voices? You said Nicole Kidman should play Willa and Tom Hanks should play Holden. Any reconsiderations or alternative casting choices?

I’m still standing by those choices but I also could see Cameron Diaz as Willa…just saying...

Visit Yona Zeldis McDonough's website.

Coffee with a Canine: Yona Zeldis McDonough & Queenie, Willa and Holden (October 2012).

Coffee with a Canine: Yona Zeldis McDonough & Willa and Holden (September 2013).

The Page 69 Test: You Were Meant For Me.

Writers Read: Yona Zeldis McDonough.

My Book, The Movie: You Were Meant for Me.

--Marshal Zeringue

Warren C. Easley & Theo

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Warren C. Easley, the author of the Cal Claxton Oregon mystery series. The second book in the series, Dead Float, is now out from Poisoned Pen Press. That little guy is Theo, a Pomeranian-Chihuahua mix, although he doesn’t know he’s a small dog. He’s seven years old and feisty as ever!

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We always snack before going on our daily walk—a double cappuccino made from freshly ground beans for me and a Milk Bone for Theo. I taught him to stand up for his treat, but he really doesn’t like dog tricks at all. He’s way too cool for that. If it’s nice, we sit on the side deck, which affords a view of the Willamette Valley to the south.

How were you and Theo united?

Theo was my daughter’s dog. She saw him at a pet store and it was love at first sight. A dead ringer for a small red fox, he was supposed to be a five-pound lap dog, but he didn’t get the memo. He weighs in at 19 pounds, mostly muscle. The daughter went off to college and, well, it’s a familiar story…

How did Theo get his name?

Theo is named for Vincent Van Gogh’s brother, to whom the artist wrote many beautiful letters. My daughter was in her Van Gogh period.

Does Theo do more to help or hinder your writing?

Theo is absolutely essential to my writing. I write “organically,” a fancy way to say I don’t outline. A good mystery requires a tightly woven plot, and when I get stuck, it’s usually over a crucial plot point. My remedy is to walk, and that’s where Theo comes in. He keeps me company on my treks, which can cover five miles if I’m really flummoxed. He’s right there the whole time, cheerfully keeping me company.

Cat, postman, squirrel?

In addition to taking me for walks and generally looking cute, Theo sees his job as patrolling our yard of nearly 3 acres and to chase away all manner of critters, including skunks, coyotes, and deer. I watched him bark a coyote right out of the yard once, but he’s never quite figured out how to handle skunks without getting sprayed. If he gets whacked at night, he’s banished from the castle until we can bathe him in the morning.

What is Theo's best quality?

Theo’s a tough little country dog who’s not yappy, keeps deer out of the garden, and is always up for a walk.

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

Theo would love it if Oregonians wouldn’t make such a fuss over how cute he is. And don’t pick him up and try to cuddle him, either. He’s really not much of a people-dog…

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

Theo, when are you going to learn that skunks are not black and white cats?

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

If it were up to Theo, he’d probably pick Clint Eastwood or Charles Bronson.

Visit Warren C. Easley's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Yona Zeldis McDonough & Willa and Holden

Who is in the photo at right?

I am Yona Zeldis McDonough, author of five novels, twenty-two books for children and numerous essays, articles and stories that have appeared in many national and literary publications. Dogs are Willa and Holden. Both are pure bred Pomeranians. Willa, the female, is eight and Holden, the male, is seven. They have been mated and Willa had a puppy (named Bebe and she is so cute I can't bear it!) so I call them husband and wife.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I mostly have coffee in my own sunny dining room; Willa and Holden are always there with me.

What's brewing?

I use a Nespresso maker for the best latte ever. It steams the milk to perfection and the easy-to-use pods are make a delicious brew.

Any treats for you or Holden and Willa on this occasion?

I might have a muffin (home-made; I'm a good muffin maker) and the pooches each get a biscuit.

How were you and Holden and Willa united?

I know a wonderful woman who is a dog breeder on Long Island. She had these two dogs she was retiring and she called to ask me if I wanted them. After I finished doing cartwheels around the living room, I said yes.

How did Holden and Willa get their names? Any aliases?

These are the show names they were given. Holden [photo left] is actually short for Holden the Applause and Willa is short for Willa be famous? For reasons I can't explain we call Holden Roscoe and Willa Fairy or Fig.

Your new novel Two of a Kind has just hit the bookstores. Are there any dogs in it?

Yes, there is a dog that plays a small but important part. My protagonist, Christina Connelly, is trying to get information from a very cranky, older man out walking his dog. He is not too helpful until she reaches into her purse and pulls out a dog biscuit, which she gives to the dog (she keeps a stash on hand for dogs of her clients--she's an interior designer). The owner softens and gives her the information she needs.

Do Holden and Willa do more to help or to hinder your writing?

Oh, they help! I work in a small room that faces the yard; I tend to keep the dogs nearby. They snooze or roll over, hoping for a belly rub as I pass. I love having them near me.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

They ignore cats and squirrels; they yap like mad at the poor postman.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Not interested, though they both enjoy chewies and such.

Do Holden and Willa have a favorite place to go for outings?

Our backyard, though small, seems to have all they require. Some dirt for digging. Plenty to sniff. Things to try to eat, like leaves, weeds and small twigs.

What is each dog's best quality?

Willa [photo left] is so dainty and pretty; she's a true lap dog and is happy when cuddled in someone's arms or lap. Most endearing.

Holden is a true gentleman. He is calm, self-possessed and even-tempered; I have never heard him growl. And he always knows when I need some TLC; he jumps up and licks my nose.

If Holden and Willa could change one thing about Brooklyn, what would it be?

Willa was raised on LI and does not understand why there has to be concrete; if it were up to her, Brooklyn would be covered in grass.

Holden thinks there should be more places for dogs to stop and snack along the way.

Learn more about the author and her work at Yona Zeldis McDonough's website.

Read--Coffee with a Canine: Yona Zeldis McDonough & Queenie, Willa and Holden (October 2012).

My Book, The Movie: Two of a Kind.

The Page 69 Test: Two of a Kind.

Writers Read: Yona Zeldis McDonough.

--Marshal Zeringue

Darden North & Valerie and Foxy

Who are in the photos with this entry?

That’s me Darden North and our two dogs, Valerie and Foxy. Both are hand-me-ups from our daughter. Valerie is a Chihuahua and Foxy a Pomeranian-rat terrier mix, otherwise known as a pomerat. Foxy indeed resembles a fox and Valerie a Chihuahua. I share the feeding, walking, and picking-up duties of these two beautiful girls with my wife Sally, although I do most of the meals and picking-up. As expected, Valerie and Foxy love me more. The two girls are at my heels the minute I get home from my day job as an obstetrician-gynecologist in a busy medical practice in Jackson, Mississippi. After a walk around the block, the dogs follow me to the computer where I write mysteries and medical thrillers. My books are set in the Deep South where lots of folks sport Labrador retrievers, but I leave the lab (our grand dog) to our son in Kentucky.

My fourth novel Wiggle Room is due in June as an eBook and in trade-paper print from publisher Sartoris Literary Group. My second novel Points of Origin was awarded an IPPY in Southern Fiction. The screenplay of my third novel Fresh Frozen is in film development.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine? What’s brewing?

Foxy is the first one up with me at 5:25 a.m. on weekdays. She follows me into a small room off the master bedroom where we keep a Keurig coffee maker. My wife Sally usually has two clean cups waiting. (Sally uses the other cup – not Foxy.) Since most days I am due at the hospital for gyn surgery by 6:45, I need a lot of caffeine. My favorite wake-up brew is Revv by Keurig Brewers, so strong that I choose the 10 ounce selection to dilute it somewhat. I alternate this with Green Mountain Coffee’s Dark Magic. Until about 18 months ago I wasn’t a coffee drinker, except to complement dessert in a nice restaurant. I abandoned Diet Coke and switched to java when I needed to lose the 25 pounds gained while writing three thriller novels. (A lot of sodium is ingested with four Diet Cokes by 9:00 each morning.) We have the same type brewer at the office, and I usually drink a Donut Shop or Our Blend about 3 p.m. every day. (I sneak in a Coke Zero now and then to supplement.) I never drink coffee in the hospital doctors’ lounge --- no reason in particular.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

While I drink about half of the Revv, I take both dogs out for their morning backroom break. (We actually call it potty around our house.) The trick is not pouring the hot brew on Valerie when dragging her from under the covers for the trip to the backyard. The Chihuahua’s wake-up schedule is more in line with my wife’s. Valerie growls at Foxy during this process; I think she resents her sister for being so chipper so early. Foxy’s treat is an immediate breakfast of Science Diet Adult Dog, gulped in less time than the coffee maker can brew, before retiring to my closet for a nap. Valerie’s treat is to get back in bed after a few seconds outside. She burrows under the sheets and bedspread, sometimes without even a nose showing from under the edge. The wife never stirs.

How were you and your dogs united? And how did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Valerie was originally a Valentine’s Day gift to my daughter when she was in the eleventh grade. Valerie seemed to go well with Valentine, so Valerie Valentine North it was. I doubt if there are many other Chihuahuas named Valerie. Because she was so difficult to housetrain as a puppy, my wife and I became Valerie’s keeper. We’re still working on that seven years later and finally rolled-up the hall rug and put it away. When the same daughter was in college, she secretly bought Foxy from a kennel in Tennessee and gave her a name that I cannot remember. But I changed it to Foxy (Again refer to photo) when the sweet pomerat was still very young and Sally and I became primary care givers. I don’t think we ever gave Foxy a middle name. Occasionally we call them Val and Fox. We love them both.

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

My two dogs crave attention, but whose dog doesn’t? Valerie in particular will stand near when I’m writing at the desktop and bark the most high-pitched, irritating sound imaginable if I have been late with her second meal of the day. This is a late supper, usually around 10:30 before bed. Breakfast was around 6 p.m. Foxy has a favorite toy, a small yellow pillow – about her same fur color – that she likes to use in games of fetch. If I have ignored her, spending more than an hour or so writing, she appears with the toy and her own version of a piercing, irritating bark. Valerie and our son’s yellow lab (our grand dog Bandit) will play with the pillow when abandoned by Foxy. The toy is very durable, it seems. Sometimes sitting on the den couch and working on my laptop, I can accommodate both small dogs: Valerie in the remaining lap space between the keyboard and my stomach and Foxy behind my head at the top of the couch. She makes a great headrest.

Squirrel, postman, cat....?

Both Valerie and Foxy chase whatever crawls, flies, leaps, or burrows into our fenced-in backyard: cat, possum, squirrel, bird, rabbit, or mole. As I am answering these questions, Foxy is intrigued by a sparrow that keeps flying against the window pane. We both heard the knocking sound and went to investigate. Foxy also nips at the bottom of human pant legs. The other day I noted an unusual aroma while writing at the computer desktop. I looked down to the rug to find Foxy enjoying the remains of a frog head.

What is each dog's best quality?

Sally and I have had smarter pets in the past, but none as sweet as Foxy. I cannot claim that Valerie is not sweet because she loves to roll over for a tummy rub or plant a lick in the face of her mom or dad, but she is the conniving one, the regal one. Fox wins the peppy and cuddly contest. Both dogs are fiercely loyal.

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

They would want me to sleep later and not work so hard.

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

No one could play Valerie Valentine North except Joan Rivers. Like Rivers, who also has her own jewelry line on QVC, Valerie loves jewels, particularly rhinestone collars, although she prefers diamonds --- maybe a reward for sparing the rug in the hall? At Christmas my wife wraps both Valerie and Foxy in a necklace of pet-store pearls. Valerie probably knows they’re fake – doubt if Foxy cares. Kristin Chenoweth would be a natural as Foxy North because the actress is soft and peppy and blond.

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

“Valerie, why do you like to pose on the furniture like the queen of the neighborhood but still roll around outside in smelly things?”

“Foxy, why do you like to lick expensive upholstery fabric, which stains it and causes my wife to insist on having the den sofa recovered for the third time?”

Visit Darden North's website and blog.

--Marshal Zeringue

Mary Hone & Roxy

Who is in the photo at right?

Mary Hone. Artist and blogger. And Roxy, our Pomeranian/Chihuahua, and Torrey.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Roxy has coffee with my husband and I every morning. She sits between us in our big chair. We drink coffee and watch a little news. Even when we are traveling, she will sit in the chair in our trailer with my husband.

What's brewing?

Columbia drip brew. We like Sunflower Markets own brand. I have a little half and half, with unsweetened chocolate almond milk.

Any treats for you or Roxy on this occasion?

Roxy and Torrey both get some of Al’s cheerios for breakfast. They love them!

How were you and Roxy united?

My brother had a male Pomeranian and his roommate had a female Chihuahua. One thing led to another and that led to puppies.

I got pick of the litter, and she is awesome!

How did Roxy get her name? Any aliases?

My kids and I tossed around several names before settling on Roxy. We just liked the sound of it. Short, sweet and all that.

I call her Twinkle Toes a lot.

Where is Roxy's favorite travel destination?

The couch? Kidding. She loves to go anywhere, anytime. Camping, hiking, visiting, you name it.

Squirrel, postman, cat...?

Squirrel!! We have them in our yard and they drive her and Torrey crazy.

You make doggie necklaces: which one is Roxy's favorite?

The one she wears all the time. Yellow, turquoise, red and blue in a zig zag pattern.

Who are Roxy's best pet-pals?

Torrey, when she's in the mood to play.

What is Roxy's best quality?

She is so personable, everyone loves her. And she doesn’t bark much.

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

Stop working and snuggle with me. Or stop working and let’s go!

If Roxy could talk in the movie about your life, who should do her voice?

Ellen Degeneres. Hands down. Snarky, and tells it like It is.

Visit the Roxy the Traveling Dog blog.

--Marshal Zeringue

Kaira Rouda & Oreo and Tucker

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Kaira Rouda and I’m the author of Here, Home, Hope – my debut novel out today! I’m also the mom of four, I’ve been married for 21 years and I live in Southern California. Over the years, I’ve been an entrepreneur, a business writer and speaker (Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs was my first book.) But now, I’m finally doing what I’ve dreamed of since childhood – writing novels.

In the photo to the right I’m with Oreo, my loyal and trusty steed, as I call him. Oreo is 11 years old. He’s a mutt who has some Pomeranian and some Spaniel mixed in. He is the smartest dog I’ve ever met and he is a star in my novel. Truly, Kelly – the protagonist’s best animal friend is Oreo. In the story, Oreo carries around his favorite toy, a red fish. And in real life, you won’t find Oreo without the fish beside him. He’s the best dog.

Recently, we added Tucker – a shitzu/poodle mix. Oreo has taken the little guy under his wing, for the most part. And Tucker is lucky to have such a wonderful big brother.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Oreo, Tucker and I have coffee every morning. My daughter wanted a coffee machine for Christmas, and now we have this fancy one that makes individual cups. I am convinced it’s more time consuming than the regular old way, but my kids love it and it makes hot chocolate, too. I can’t tell you what my favorite is because my husband orders different types all the time. It’s a family toy, I think!

What's brewing?

No matter what the brand, my coffee is always black.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

The dogs just discovered Newman’s Own Organic Peanut Butter Treats. They’re shaped like hearts.

How did the dogs get their names?

Oreo was named by the kids, 11 years ago. They were little – he is black and white. Enough said. Tucker was named by my daughter who promised to take care of him. Enough said.

Please tell us a bit about your dogs' role in your writing?

Both dogs sit at my feet, under my desk. I love it. The constant encouragement of their presence. It’s the best.

Do your dogs have a favorite place to go for walk?

Oreo loves the beach. He gets the biggest smile on his face when he’s out there, chasing birds, jumping waves.

Tucker doesn’t know how to walk on a leash yet. We’re working on it.

What's each dog's best quality?

Oreo is smart – he seems to understand everything I’m saying. I know, that’s weird, but he’s awesome.

Tucker is adorable – like a Teddy Bear following you around.

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

They would ask that I never leave the house without taking them with me. And if I could, I would take them everywhere with me.

View the book trailer for Here, Home, Hope, and learn more about the book and author at Kaira Rouda's website.

My Book, The Movie: Here, Home, Hope.

--Marshal Zeringue