Elle Grawl & Olive and Truffle

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Elle Grawl and I'm the author of the psychological thriller One of Those Faces. In this photo, my dog Truffle (an 8-year-old shepherd mix) is in front of me.

My other dog, Olive (a 1-year-old Goldendoodle), isn't pictured here.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

As I write this, we're preparing to make a quick trip to a coffee shop before I need to head to the office for my day-job as a lawyer.

What's brewing?

I typically like to support the independent coffee shops in my neighborhood, but on days when I bring my dogs, I'll swing through the Starbucks drive-thru for my venti dark roast coffee (hot, no cream or sugar), so they can get a puppucino.

Any treats for you or the dogs on this occasion?

No treats for me, but the dogs love their puppucinos, which are these tiny cups that the baristas fill with whipped cream. Olive and Truffle don't get them very often, so they cherish each one!

How were you and Olive and Truffle united?

My husband and I wanted to buy a coffee plant one Saturday morning while I was in law school and we returned with Truffle instead! While we were looking for the plant, we stumbled upon a local shelter event and we really connected with Truffle. We'd been wanting to get a second dog for some time and had been on waiting lists with doodle-mix rescues in the area for a while before we got to meet Olive!

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

My husband and I like to cook together and we love truffle as an ingredient. When we talked about getting a dog, we'd always joke that "Truffle" would be a great name for a dog. I sometimes call him "Truffie" or "Chuckles" because he always looks like he's smiling.

We had a couple of name ideas for our second dog, but when we met her, "Olive" seemed to fit for some reason. She also responds to "Ollie," "Ollie-kins," and "Stinky."

Do Olive and Truffle do more to help or hinder your writing?

They somehow manage to do both!

When we first got Olive, she was a handful and required a lot of attention as a puppy so I didn't have as much time for writing. These days, they both love to curl up by me when I write and it's so comforting to have them around. But when they're super playful or if they spot a squirrel anywhere near a window, I usually opt to close my laptop and take them outside.

Have your actual canines inspired the creation of any fictional dogs?

Actually, yes! Truffle inspired a shelter-adopted shepherd mix in one of my works-in-progress and Olive inspired a brief interaction that the main character has with a Goldendoodle at a house party in a different novel I'm working on.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Truffle and Olive both love to run after squirrels. We have the occasional cat pass through our yard and those are Olive's favorite to watch through the window (I never let them out when a cat is around).

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

They love all three, but the ball is a particular favorite since they get to chase after it!

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Before Olive, Truffle used to have a good group of corgi friends at our last place. But right now, they are each other's best pals!

What is each dog's best quality?

They are both so smart and so great at training. They're also incredibly loving and cuddly.

If Olive and Truffle could change one thing about you, what would it be?

They would definitely change how I manage my schedule so that I could spend every waking moment with them!

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

For Truffle, I would ask "what was your life like before we adopted you?" I've always been curious about where he came from since he was picked up from the street but was clearly accustomed to being in a house with a family.

For Olive, I would ask "what makes you happiest?"

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

For some reason, I feel like a good fit for Truffle would be Aziz Ansari. Haley Lu Richardson would be a perfect voice for Olive.

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

I'm pretty sure they would tell me to "stop stressing out so much and play with us" which is obviously great advice!

Visit Elle Grawl's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Alysa Wishingrad & Cleo and Lucy

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Alysa Wishingrad, I write upper middle grade books with a historical and fantastical twist. My debut The Verdigris Pawn came out in July 21 and my next book Between Monsters and Marvels will be out Fall ‘23.

My friend here is Lucy, a 5-year-old beauty with some shepherd and who knows what else in her who, along with Cleo, was rescinded in Alexandria, Eqypt.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We like to have our morning tea outside anytime we can. This was a balmy Halloween morning- perfect time to sit in the sun!

What's brewing?

I have to admit I don’t drink much coffee anymore. But I am very devoted to, and picky about my tea.

AM: A cup of Joko tea with a splash of oat or almond milk – JOKO is a South African black tea in the style of a Morning Breakfast. had never been a fan of black tea my

best friend, who is from SA, introduced me to the tea. It’s so smooth and lovely, I can’t start my day without a cup.

Mid-Day is for a second cup of black tea– maybe a cup of Paris with steamed oat milk – the perfect treat!

Evenings are not complete without a cup of Rooibos, yup again, with a splash of oat or almond milk.

Any treats for you or the dogs on this occasion?

The dogs get plenty of treats throughout the day, so they tend to skip tea time.

How were you and the dogs united?

A friend of a friend rescued them in Alexandria, Egypt. She’s a flight attendant and had friends and family in Egypt who were devoted to rescuing street dogs – of which there are countless numbers.

Cleo [photo right] was found in a box with her siblings at just a few days old. They all had parvo, she was the only one to survive.

Lucy was found wandering the streets on her own at about eight weeks old. The rescuers put the two girls together and they bonded immediately.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Cleo was called Sugar in Egypt.

Lucy was called Princess.

We didn’t much care for those names, and the girls didn’t seem terribly attached either. It took our family days to land on their names but we finally reached an agreement.

As for aliases, how much time do you have?

Here’s how their nicknames have evolved:

Cleo (short for Cleopatra) > Cleopatricia > CleoPat > Patty Anne > Patty > Pat.

Lucy [photo left]: We had a lot of debate in our family before landing on her name – I wanted to call her Lulu, no one else did. So, we named her Lucy and ... you guessed it her nickname is Lulu!

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

When they were younger they did a lot more to hinder my writing, but now that they’re 5, almost 6 years old they don’t demand quite as much attention.

I do value my twice daily long walks with them though- I do some of my best thinking and knot untangling during our walks.

Have your actual canines inspired the creation of any fictional dogs?

I’ve yet to write any dogs into my books, although there is a little Beasty in my next book, Between Monsters and Marvels, whose personality was certainly informed by all the beasts I’ve had in my life.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Yes.

[photo right: Lucy and Cleo back in Egypt]

And hawks, and coyote, fox and deer shouting in the night.

And cars in the driveway.

And deer off in the woods.

And and and and and....

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

They used to love to tear apart soft toys and chew on antlers, but they’re not that interested in them much anymore.

What is each dog's best quality?

Cleo is the sweetest, most lovely girl, and she’s very funny too.

Lucy is a great big cuddle bunny, she’ll put her head on your lap and stay as long as you let her.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Mae, our cat [photo left].

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

That I’d give them a cookie every single time they walk back into the house.

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

Would you like to have dinner?

And they’d answer: We’ve been waiting for you to ask for hours!

(Reader: they eat dinner at 5-5:30, about 8-9 hours after breakfast, not exactly an interminable wait.)

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

Cleo: Scarlett Johnasson

Lucy: Tina Fey

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Watch out for the basement door, there’s something down there!!!!!

Visit Alysa Wishingrad's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Leanne Kale Sparks & Zoe

Who is in the photo at right?

Leanne, writer of mystery thrillers, and Zoe, an 18-month-old German Shepherd, showing off Momma’s new book.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We just finished an afternoon Nespresso with Dad, which is a treat because Dad is always on the phone.

What's brewing?

Our usual brew is Vanilla Macadamia Nut Kona coffee with two pumps of toasted marshmallow syrup and a generous pour of cream.

Any treats for you or Zoe on this occasion?

Zoe has a homemade puppuccino (whipped cream). Sometimes Dad adds some cereal milk to it for a little added bonus.

How were you and Zoe united?

We lost our gorgeous white GSD, Patch, during the quarantine in 2020, and we knew we needed to have another dog. We opted for a breeder and picked Zoe up at the beginning of October 2020, and life has been hectic and entertaining ever since.

How did your dog get her name?

We came up with a list of potential names, and the family voted for Zoe Matilda.

Any aliases?

Puppers; Honey Bun, Bun Bun, ZoZo, Petunia, Sweet potato, Zoe McGillicudy…and probably a few I’ve missed. Honestly, it’s a wonder she knows her name.

Does Zoe do more to help or hinder your writing?

She is not so helpful in my office. Too many distractions and things she ought not to be chewing. Daddy’s office has windows to the front yard. Much more to entertain and keep her out of trouble.

Has Zoe inspired you to create any fictional canines?

I didn’t have Zoe when I started writing this last book, but I can definitely see her in some future books.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Squirrel.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Squeaky ball and frisbee.

Who is Zoe's best pet-pal?

My granddog, Nala (but she lives in another state, so they don’t see each other often). She loves running the fence line in the backyard with the neighbor dog, a border collie.

What is Zoe's best quality?

She’s a big morning snuggler in bed.

If Zoe could change one thing about Texans, what would it be?

Big loud pick-up trucks that pass her while taking a walk.

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

What is so enticing about eating your poop?

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

Reese Witherspoon.

What advice would Zoe give if asked?

If the answer to life’s questions don’t involve loving on a dog, it’s not a question worth asking.

Visit Leanne Kale Sparks's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Allie Larkin & Stella

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Allie Larkin, author of the novels Stay, Why Can't I Be You, and Swimming for Sunlight, which all include lovable literary pups. I’m having coffee with my friend, Stella, who is an eleven-year-old German Shepherd.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

After she’s hit the yard and eaten breakfast, Stella likes to herd me over to sit with her for our usual quiet time. I have a folded futon mattress in my office that makes for an excellent meditation spot/dog bed, and we like to sit there while I drink my coffee. It is so peaceful.

What's brewing?

I’m pretty no frills about coffee. I like pour over best. Black or with a little soy milk. My two favorites are Philz Philharmonic roast and Caffe Appassionato’s Organic Shade Grown Emperor’s Blend.

Any treats for you or Stella on this occasion?

Stella is just getting over a tummy ache, so I’m doing the lame thing where I pretend her regular kibble is treats. It feels like the equivalent of giving out raisins on Halloween, but she doesn’t seem to mind. She eats Natural Planet kibble and is endlessly excited about it. She also loves Checkups dental bones and Zukes Mini Naturals.

How were you and Stella united?

Before we moved to the Bay Area, we lived in Rochester, NY. We had a German Shepherd named Argo (who was actually the cover-dog for the hardcover version of my first novel, Stay). When we had to travel, we used to board him at a great place just outside of Rochester. The people who ran the boarding facility knew of a thirteen-month-old German Shepherd who needed a new home and called to see if we’d be interested in adding to our family.

Stella was a holy terror when we first got her and Argo was miserable about it. But eventually, they settled in and became best friends. When Argo got cancer, Stella was the most brilliant comfort to him. All of her anxiety and young dog hyperactivity faded away, and she was calm and careful for him. It was beautiful to witness. The depth and breadth of Stella’s heart never cease to amaze me.

How did your dog get her name? Any aliases?

She didn’t answer to the name she had when she came to us, so we started making a list of possible names. Then my husband was telling me about Stellarium, which is an open source desktop planetarium, and suddenly Stella seemed like the perfect name. So, I suppose she’s actually named after software. I call her Stellar or Stells sometimes.

Does Stella do more to help or hinder your writing?

Once Stella made it through her teen dog angst, she became a pretty low key dog. In the book Quiet, Susan Cain mentions that animals can also be introverts. Stella is definitely an introvert dog. She wants to know where I am at all times, and she hangs out in the same room with me, but she likes her personal space. She’s the ideal office mate. As long as we stick to her walk-play-food schedule, she’s pretty content to let me work, and just having her physical presence in the room makes me happy.

Cat, postman, squirrel…?

There are a lot of cats who wander our neighborhood. Stella desperately wants to be friends, but they aren’t interested. At night, she needs to sniff around the yard to see where they’ve been.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick…?

Stella has a menagerie of stuffed animals that she grooms and cares for. Her current favorite is a Fluff & Tuff rabbit we call Rabbert. She knows him by name and will retrieve him if we ask where he is.

Where is Stella's favorite outdoor destination?

She loves our daily walks to a nearby P-A-R-K, but we’ve had the chance to take her backpacking in the Sierras a few times and she loved that. I also got to take her hiking to the Lost Coast up by Mendocino. It was her first time at the ocean, and she took it all in stride. She loved lying in the warm sand and watching the waves.

Who is Stella's best pet-pal?

Argo was the love of Stella’s life. After he passed away, she started getting fearful of other dogs. We thought about getting another dog, but ultimately decided it would be best for her to get our undivided attention. So, I suppose I am Stella’s best pet-pal now. I often joke that over our time together, Stella has become a little bit human and I’ve become a little bit dog.

What is Stella's best quality?

Stella is afraid of so many things, but she has never let her fear get in the way of being a good friend. I have so much respect for how hard she works to love fiercely. It’s inspiring.

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

I think Stella would prefer that I spend my entire day in one spot. She gets so annoyed when she’s settled herself and all her stuffed animals in my office and then I go to the kitchen to make lunch.

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

I always wonder what she’s dreaming about when she runs in her sleep.

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

Has anyone ever gone wrong choosing Emma Thompson for anything?

What advice would Stella give if asked?

It’s important to know where your pack members are.

Visit Allie Larkin's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

P. J. Vernon & Chauncey and Mikko

Who is in the photo?

The human is me, PJ Vernon. I’m a suspense author (When You Find Me is my Southern Gothic debut, and everyone should buy twelve copies from NY Times-reporting bookstores). These are my dogs, and they’re pretty grand, too.

In the foreground and half outta frame, we have Chauncey the eight-year-old English Bulldog.

Above him, is our three-year-old rescue, Mikko. Half-Husky, half-German Shepherd, half-Bolto, and half-White Fang. That math adds up; no follow-up questions.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

When it comes to my dog-children, I’m a pageant mom. I’ve forced this publicity upon them in an emotionally-fraught attempt to live vicariously through their impending celebrity.

What's brewing?

I’m no coffee snob [coffee not pictured for safety reasons]. Don’t get me wrong, we’ve got a collection of great beans—and one of those fancy-shmancy hand-crank grinders—but ain’t nothin’ wrong with Maxwell House in the morning. The addition of sweetened condensed milk, however, is an absolute must.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

No.

Mikko already indulged in sweet manna from the heavens (magpies dropped orange peels in the backyard this morning while I wasn’t paying attention).

Chauncey’s treat-less because he knows what he did.

How were you and your dogs united?

Chauncey was a poorly-advised-but-totally-worth-it-and-no-one-can-tell-me-otherwise purchase. In grad school, I emptied my entire checking account to bring him home. The bank teller’s face as I withdrew everything to acquire a puppy? Priceless.

Bless her heart.

Mikko’s a rescue. He hails from the far north of Alberta. Brrr. He has a prison [shelter] tat on his left ear, bum hind leg, and a heart o’ pure gold.

He’s also in doggie therapy working on his fear reactivity towards strange dogs (we all have a past). He’s making fabulous progress!

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Chauncey’s name just came to me. He often goes by Chaunpoo. My partner Barry named Mikko. Mikko also goes by Mikkiepoo.

Do Chauncey and Mikko do more to help or hinder your writing?

A mixed bag. I’m very productive in the mornings when they play the role of white noise machines (soothing snoring punctuated by an occasional fart).

However, once noon rolls around, they engage in mission creep but for dinner. At one point, feeding was 6 PM. They’ve now collapsed the dinnertime window to between 3 and 4. Success!

Have any actual dogs ever inspired dogs in your fiction?

Oh god no. I wouldn’t let them anywhere near my dark and twisty plots.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Baby strollers.

Our house is a downtown, so there’s always a flurry of activity outside. When—and this actually happened—drifters were having sex in our back alley? Not a peep from either of them.

But the menacing clickity-clack of a squeaky stroller wheel on an uneven sidewalk? Not havin’ it.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

All of the above for Chauncey. It’s unlikely Mikko had access to traditional dog toys as a pup, so he’s in the process of learning how to play from his brother. Although, he does have a serious sock fetish we have to watch out for.

Who is each dog's best pet-pal?

Chauncey is not self-aware when it comes to his status as “pet”, so he’d likely say Mikko. His dog.

Circling back to Mikko’s fear reactivity, he’s made great furry friends in therapy (huge shout out to Dogma in Calgary). But at the end of the day, he loves Chauncey the most. He’s protective of his sibling.

What is each dog's best quality?

Chauncey spent his formative years with me as a single gay man, so his special power is the neediness I deliberately and carefully cultivated in him.

Mikko’s best quality is his ability to play the big spoon to my little spoon on the couch.

If Chauncey and Mikko could change one thing about you, what would it be?

They’d like to see the final remnants of my sand castle-like resolve wash away when it comes to staving off dinner until [currently] 3:30 PM.

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

How much more do you love me than Barry? If the answer’s not what I want to hear, I forfeit my question.

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

Mikko could be voiced by Michael J. Fox who played Chance in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.

Chauncey could be done by Sally Field a la Sassy.

Neither has the gravitas for Shadow (played by the late Don Ameche).

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Strollers belong in zoo enclosures where they can be appreciated from a safe distance. Not just… feral… in urban centers.

Visit P. J. Vernon's website.

The Page 69 Test: When You Find Me.

Writers Read: P. J. Vernon.

My Book, The Movie: When You Find Me.

--Marshal Zeringue

Janna King & Melvin and Olive

Who is in the photos in this entry?

I’m Janna King and I’m an author, screenwriter and playwright who, on rare occasions, directs. I’m with my dogs, Melvin, a 4-year-old Husky/Staffordshire Terrier/Shepherd mix and Olive, an 8-year-old English/American Bulldog mix.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

They are my writing partners. In our photos together, I’m chatting with them at home where I work. We’re discussing my debut novel, The Seasonaires, and I’m letting them in on some upcoming projects. Mel is never impressed. Olive has no idea what I’m saying, but she’s a good listener.

What's brewing?

I’m indulging my two-a-day almond milk latte habit, brewed and frothed by my beloved Nespresso machine in mugs made with my kids (now 19 and 21) at Color Me Mine. I plunk in two heaping teaspoons of sugar. I affectionately blame my coffee sweet tooth on my Grandma Honey who used to make me “coffee milk” when I was a kid: a teeny bit of coffee, the rest milk and a whole lot of sugar.

Any treats for you or Mel and Olive on this occasion?

Mel is also not impressed by treats, but he does like carrots. Olive’s mouth doesn’t allow her to chew carrots. She covets Greenies, but they don’t really help with her pungent dog breath.

How were you and your dogs united?

My daughter volunteered at a Los Angeles pet rescue and she fell in love with siblings Olive and Sully. The rescue didn’t want them separated, so my ex-husband adopted Sully and I took Olive. That way my kids could be with both dogs. I dogsit Sully on occasion so brother and sister can hang out together.

I was looking for another rescue pup and leaning towards German Shepherds because I had one I adored, Teddy. When we saw Mel, we thought he would grow to be Shepherd size, but he stopped about halfway there. He’s a handsome fella in his own right and knows it.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

I can’t remember their original names when we adopted them. The kids are in charge of naming pets and tend towards very human names for pups. We call Melvin “Mel,” unless he’s in trouble, and then I use his full name. My daughter also calls him “Mooey," so we’ve all taken to that.

Olive is “Lady” because she’s such a pretty lady!

Do Mel and Olive do more to help or hinder your writing?

Writing can be very solitary, so they keep me company. They are usually pretty chill unless the doorbell rings or dogs pass by the house or the mail carrier comes or Amazon delivery or... Mel gets very antsy when I’m on the phone, but that’s probably because I’m antsy when I’m on the phone.

They distract me sometimes because I love to take their photos, often for their Instagram account 2bulliesandaroo, which they have with Olive’s brother Sully. The “roo” refers to Mel, who we think looks like a kangaroo and can jump about as high. When Mel made the Boop My Nose Instagram feed, I was more excited about that than pretty much any accomplishment.

Have any actual dogs ever inspired dogs in your fiction?

I have a bulldog in the book I’m currently writing. But I imagine this one being more like my first bulldog (over two decades ago), Stella, who was so fat that she looked like a plump seal lolling on the beach. This novel takes place in Malibu, so that seemed appropriate.

Cat, postman, squirrel…?

Mel goes after the squirrels and crows. Olive barks at anything that moves.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick…?

Mel is pretty good at catch. We take him to the park and he’s fast, but in short bursts. Then he plops down in the dirt and lets the other dogs take over.

Olive likes rope toys. The two play tug-of-war, which is an entertaining distraction.

Who is each dog's best pet-pal?

They love each other. Sometimes they bicker over food we accidentally drop during dinner. I’m not crazy about that. They also get along great with Sully, who is The Man!

What is each dog's best quality?

Mel is the sweetest dog ever! He just wants everyone to love him. But he also has some ‘tude and often looks at us like he thinks we’re dolts.

Olive is just plain goofy. She is the best "Saturday morning snuggies" for my daughter Izzy, when Izzy visits.

If Mel and Olive could change one thing about Angelenos, what would it be?

Mel would like Angelenos to stop looking at their cellphones on our hikes and say “hello” to him instead.

And Olive feels like drivers should chill out with the road rage.

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

I would ask Mel, “What’s the secret to life?” because he’s so confident and content.

To Olive I would ask, "What are you thinking about right now?” because I always want to know that when I’m looking at her face.

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

Christian Slater = Mel
Aubrey Plaza = Olive

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

Mel would say, “You be you."

Olive would tell me that I need to take naps and drink more water.

Visit Janna King's website.

Check out Mel and Olive on Instagram.

--Marshal Zeringue

Amber Brock & Bitty, Fred and Vicki

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Amber Brock, teacher and author of A Fine Imitation and Lady Be Good. Bitty has joined me for coffee today! She’s one of my three rescue dogs, and she’s a nine-year-old miniature Australian Shepherd mixed with mystery mutt. My other two (not pictured) are Fred, a fourteen-year-old German Shepherd/Australian Shepherd mix; and Vicki, a five-year-old Chihuahua mix.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

In the summer, I get to have coffee with my dogs every morning before our big walk. They definitely prefer that to the school year, when I have to rush out the door early.

What's brewing?

I drink my coffee black, and I have since I started drinking coffee in college.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

My dogs like to get their “cookies.” Their favorite is Lose-a-Finger, a local Atlanta brand.

How were you and your dogs united?

Ever since I adopted Fred twelve years ago, I’ve been committed to always adopting rescue dogs. When we’re ready to adopt, we meet as many dogs at the local rescue as possible and consider who would be the best fit in our pack.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

Fred came from the rescue with his name, and he was such a perfect “Fred.” I couldn’t bear to change it! Bitty was originally Chex, but I started calling her “Little Bit” and “Bitty” because at the time she was the smallest in our pack. Now we have Vicki, who was Cinderella at the rescue. Vicki is an obscure reference to an episode of The Simpsons, and we gave her the name because she does a little tap dance when she’s excited about dinner—bonus points to anyone who knows it!

Do Fred, Bitty, and Vicki do more to help or hinder your writing?

Vicki likes to be in my lap, which can make it challenging to find a comfortable writing position. Fred is content to stay on the couch and ignore me when I’m working. Bitty usually sleeps on the bed all day—she likes a little luxury.

Have any actual dogs ever inspired dogs in your fiction?

Loco in Lady Be Good is inspired by Bitty’s look and Vicki’s “Velcro” qualities. Much like Loco with my main character Kitty, Vicki always wants to be by my side!

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

All are cause for raucous barking, and all three dogs are convinced that someday, somehow, they will catch a squirrel.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Vicki immediately shreds any toy she gets her teeth in, even the supposedly indestructible ones. Bitty has “her” toys, and she doesn’t like to share (probably due to Vicki’s destructive tendencies). Now that Fred is fourteen, it’s rare that he’s interested in toys. But when he gets interested, he’ll play with anything!

Who is each dog's best pet-pal?

Bitty pretends to be distant, but she can’t bear to be separated from Fred. If he goes to the vet or on his special, shorter walks, she waits anxiously to celebrate his return. Vicki seems to think she’s a person and is mostly baffled by the other two.

What is each dog's best quality?

Vicki is the sweetest, Bitty is the funniest, and Fred is the most loyal. He’s always trying to top himself on the “good boy” scale.

If Fred, Bitty, and Vicki could change one thing about Georgians, what would it be?

They would request fewer fireworks! The poor girls don’t care for July 4th or New Years’ at all.

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

I’d probably ask all of them if I’ve been a good dog mom. They seem really happy, though, so I guess I’m treating them well.

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

Fred: Tom Hanks (doing a goofy voice, for sure)

Bitty: Retta (Donna on Parks and Rec)

Vicki: Yeardley Smith (the voice of Lisa Simpson)

What advice would your dogs give if asked?

They would always, without fail, advise people to take more naps and give more cookies!

Visit Amber Brock's website.

My Book, The Movie: Lady Be Good.

--Marshal Zeringue

Emily Adrian & Hank

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Emily Adrian. I’m the author of YA novels Like It Never Happened and The Foreseeable Future, which was released on May 8. Hank is a seven-year-old shepherd/Golden Retriever mix (we think).

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Hank and I have coffee most mornings, but today is Saturday so we are extra relaxed.

What's brewing?

Some Dunkin Donuts coffee that we brewed in a cheap coffee maker from Walmart that never gets quite hot enough.

Any treats for you or Hank on this occasion?

I’m having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Hank is eagerly awaiting his human sibling’s breakfast time, at which point human sib will toss a lot of food from the high chair to the kitchen floor.

How were you and Hank united?

My husband and I adopted Hank when he was an eight-week-old puppy in the city of Toronto. Hank, like our son, is Canadian; my husband and I are both American.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

Hank just seemed like a Hank—however, his full name is Hank Buckles Triumph Musty Bear.

Does Hank do more to help or hinder your writing?

Honestly? I’m never more peeved than when Hank barks at the postman, waking the baby from his nap and effectively ending my writing time. That said, Hank’s overall impact on my life is so positive that I’m quick to forgive his occasional misdeeds.

Has Hank inspired the creation of any fictional dogs?

Oh, absolutely.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

He’s terrified of cats, offended by the postman (see above), and indifferent to squirrels.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Shhh…he’ll hear you.

Where is Hank's favorite outdoor destination?

Any body of water.

Who is Hank's best pet-pal?

A lovely beagle named Louis, our friends’ dog, with whom he grew up.

What is Hank's best quality?

Hank is truly up for anything. In his seven years, he has been on countless road trips, stayed in hotel rooms and Airbnbs, moved with us from Canada to the states, explored cities and forests and small towns. No matter where we go, he’s right by our side.

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

We’ve been living in a small town in north Ohio since last August, and Hank’s chief complaint is that most of the dogs here are confined to their houses or backyards. He would like the dogs to go for walks, so that he can meet them.

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

Who’s a good boy?

What advice would Hank give if asked?

Remember: you’ve got three legs and a spare.

Visit Emily Adrian's website.

Learn more about The Foreseeable Future.

--Marshal Zeringue

Jennifer Caloyeras & Reba and Dingo

Who is in the photo at right?

This is me, Jennifer Caloyeras, and my two rescue dogs, Dingo, 4 (the brown one) and Reba, 15! We actually had both our dogs genetically tested since we last spoke, so I can say, with more certainty that Dingo is part Australian Shepherd and part chihuahua and Reba, although she received every recessive gene possible, is a pit bull!

I am a writer and I also teach writing at UCLA Extension's Writers’ Program.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

My third book was recently published. It’s called Unruly Creatures and it’s a short fiction collection full of wonderful weirdness. And lots of unruly creatures.

What's brewing?

I’ve been into the Stumptown coffee out of a french press. It says it has hints of citrus and chocolate. I don’t know about all that, but it does help me wake up in the morning!

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

They are enjoying some hip and joint turkey jerky for dogs. It’s smells so good. I almost want to eat it.

Readers can click back to your 2015 Q &A to learn how your dogs got their names, but I wonder: have Reba and Dingo acquired any new nicknames in the last couple of years?

We call Reba sleeping beauty because she literally sleeps almost all day.

Have any actual dogs inspired fictional dogs in your new story collection?

There is one story in the collection, “Big Brother” that has a very loyal dog in it. I remember watching Reba napping and dreaming and using that to describe how this dog was dozing.

Now that Reba is 15 years old, is she facing any special geriatric challenges?

She really has slowed down a lot of the last few years, although, every once in a while she’ll bound across our yard with the energy of a puppy. (and then she follows it with a four-hour nap.) She suffers from some hip pain and the stairs are a bit more difficult to navigate. She’s on medicine for high liver enzymes. But other than that, she’s really doing pretty great!

Where is your dogs' favorite outdoor destination?

We recently took them to Three Rivers, California at the base of the Sequoia National Park. They loved it! There was a small creek for them to play in and so many new smells to smell. Coyotes definitely came out at night, so we were sure to keep them inside once the sun went down.

When I last asked about your dogs' best pet-pals you mentioned guinea pigs and humans. Have Reba and Dingo met any special canine friends since then?

Dingo especially loves a good dog playdate. She has some dog friends - Gryphon and Charlie, who come over to play with her. They have concocted all sorts of intricate games with their own set of rules. It’s very fascinating to watch.

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

They’d want me home all the time. And in my bed, so they could snuggle with me. I think, I would like this too!

When I last asked who should voice your dogs in a movie about your life, you mentioned Soleil Moon Frye for Dingo and Helen Mirren for Reba. Are there any new actors you'd consider for the job?

I’m very pleased with my casting choices.

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

Coffee with a Canine: Jennifer Caloyeras & Reba and Dingo (May 2015).

--Marshal Zeringue

Leslie Connor & Atticus and Broomis

Who are in the photos at right and below?

That human is me; I’m Leslie Connor and I am a children’s book author.

The blonde canine is Broomis. He’s a shepherd mix and he’s about eight years old. The “cookies and cream” dog is Atticus. He is seven. Until very recently, we thought he was a Border Collie/Great Pyrenes mix. But a doggie DNA test, says he’s neither! He’s a super-mix—Golden Retriever, Labrador, Australian Cattle Dog, with traces of Terrier and Guard breeds. (We figure all of this means he can do anything.)

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We are back from our walk and today is another writing day. It’s just what we do: daydream along the trail, stoke the fire, fill the mug, and get to work.

What's brewing?

It’s tea—Earl Grey, loose leaf, which we order in bulk from Frontier. It’s brewed here at out house in a stylish handmade pottery teapot, which was a gift from a dear friend. (I happen to know that she purchased it at the Blue Hill Farmers’ Market in the great state of Maine.)

Any treats for you or Atticus and Broomis on this occasion?

They get wheat-free treats while the tea brews.

I might be having a chunk of dark chocolate before noon. Maybe. It happens.

How were you and your dogs united?

We adopted one another. Broomis came first, one Valentine’s Day at a big rescue event for dogs from Tennessee. One year later, I found Atticus on Petfinder. He came from Kentucky.

How did your dogs get their names? Any aliases?

We landed on the name Broomis after a few other names including, Pancake, Chickpea, and Sun Bear, failed somehow. (I know. What were we thinking?) Broomis was the name of a “roly-poly” bear in an old children’s song—spelled Brumus, actually—but we changed that because our guy is the color of broom straw. Atticus was named by his foster-family. We thought he’d been through enough changes in his young life already (picked up running in the wilds of Kentucky…) so we kept it. We like it, but he’s really more of a Scout.

Aliases? You bet. Nicknames happen endlessly at our house. Broomis is also known as: Broo, Broo-bacah-soda crackah, Hummus (oh, that chickpea thing), Hummy-ding and Hoy-ding. (I can’t believe I’m confessing this.) Atticus is also called: Atti-kissy, Attri, Pat-pat, and Little Man With a Hat.

Do Atticus and Broomis do more to help or hinder your writing?

Well, there is that hourly business of me being a dog door. But by way of keeping my mood elevated and giving me so much love, they help immeasurably. Also, both dogs take dictation and type one hundred words per minute, so there’s that.

Have any actual dogs ever inspired dogs in your fiction?

Yes! My new middle grade title, The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle, features a dog named Moonie Drinker. Moonie is modeled on my Atticus. I’m working on something new now and there is a dog with a mysterious past—a thread based on the guesses we’ve made about Broomis’s life before he landed with us.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Atticus: avoid, kiss, chase.

Broomis: fear, cautiously curious (there have been biscuits…), chase (but not like he means it).

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Atticus: six catches and we’re done, not offered (because my ears), proud to carry one but only for a hundred feet.

Broomis: What ball? (rolls by him), not offered, too scary!

Who is each dog's best pet-pal?

Since they have each other there’s a lot of canine brotherly love. Both our dogs welcome canine and human visitors; nothing is better than when one of our grown human kids comes home to visit.

What is each dog's best quality?

Atticus: enthusiasm!

Broomis: quiet reserve.

If Atticus and Broomis could change one thing about Connecticuters, what would it be?

More funds for no-kill shelters!

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

Name one thing you wish we’d stop doing to you? (Not that we’ll stop…)

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

Atticus: Gaten Matarazzo. Broomis: Steve Carell.

What advice would Atticus and Broomis give if asked?

Shut down the device, get down on all fours, and smell every inch of the eighty-acre wood.

Visit Leslie Connor's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Rebecca Ross & Sierra

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Rebecca Ross and I write Young Adult Fantasy books. And this is my dog, Sierra. She's a six year old Australian Shepherd with a lot of personality!

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I am a coffee addict. I cannot start my day without it, so Sierra has coffee with me every morning.

What's brewing?

Eight o' Clock Coffee in the Hazelnut flavor.

How were you and Sierra united?

I found Sierra on a puppy listing. I drove 3 hours to meet her and her brothers and sisters, and she was like a ball of energy charging through the grass at my feet. And I knew she was the one I was supposed to take home.

How did your dog get her name? Any aliases?

My husband and I were trying to think of a good name for her when I randomly thought of the Sierra Nevadas. And I was like, oh, Sierra is the perfect name for her. She doesn't have an alias but she has accumulated a few nicknames. "Boo Bear" is probably my favorite.

Does Sierra do more to help or hinder your writing?

Sierra is great about curling up the armchair in my office and snoozing while I write. But when it's time to go out and play, she definitely lets me know. She'll nuzzle her nose beneath my elbow until I relent. And I've typically been working for a few hours at that point, so it's always time for a little break.

Has Sierra inspired the creation of any fictional dogs?

Sierra actually did inspire a fictional dog in my debut, The Queen's Rising! I simply could not write a story without a dog, to be honest.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Sierra's one true nemesis are squirrels.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Frisbee. Sierra loves to play frisbee. She's very agile and has tons of energy to burn every day, so this is the perfect activity for her.

Where is Sierra's favorite outdoor destination?

My in-laws have a farm, and whenever we pull into their driveway and Sierra sees the open fields...she can hardly contain herself. So I would say she loves wide open spaces.

Who is Sierra's best pet-pal?

My parents have an Aussie who Sierra has known since she was a puppy. The two of them are good friends (until they fight over the Frisbee).

What is Sierra's best quality?

Sierra is a committed, faithful dog. She does everything with 100%. She always gives the best she has, and I love that about her.

If Sierra could change one thing about Georgians, what would it be?

Hmm...I think she would make us all go outdoors more. Get out of our of offices and take more time off of work to enjoy outdoor activities.

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

I would ask her what she dreams about! Every now and then, she'll twitch and growl and yelp in her sleep, and I always wonder what she's dreaming about.

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

I think Daisy Ridley would be perfect.

What advice would Sierra give if asked?

Sierra's advice would go along the lines of this: Give your best, love all people, and take naps every now and then.

Visit Rebecca Ross's website.

The Page 69 Test: The Queen's Rising.

--Marshal Zeringue

Gavin Ehringer & Onda

Who is in the photo at right?

I’m Gavin Ehringer, a journalist and author, and he’s Onda, my 8-year-old Aussie shepherd...and truly my best friend. We’re inseparable.

What's brewing?

Black coffee for me, water served in stainless steel for Onda. We keep it simple.

Any treats for you or Onda on this occasion?

I like carrot cake, and always keep cheese-flavored Charlie Bear treats in my pocket for Onda.

How were you and Onda united?

He was bred by Las Rocosa Australian Shepherds - the Hartnagle family were foundation breeders of Aussies, and I’ve been a family friend for 30 years. All eight of my dogs have come from their farm.

How did your dog get his name? Any aliases?

Onda means “wave” in Spanish. I first saw Aussies at the beach in California as a kid. I called them “surfer dogs,” because I didn’t know their breed! Later, I encountered them in Colorado. This one’s actually Onda No. 2.

Please tell us about your new book.

Leaving The Wild, The Unnatural History of Dogs, Cats, Cows and Horses considers how these animals became domesticated, and what they got and gave up in return. It’s really an examination of how animal breeding influences animals’ lives, for good and bad.

Skateboard? Really?

Yes! Onda rides a Dogtown-brand Slateboard, as well as competes in Frisbee, agility, dog shows and herding. I worked at teaching him to ride off-and-on for nearly two years before he mastered it.

Is it true that Onda is not shy about performing in public?

Yes, he’s not. He often does agility and “trick” demos for charity, and we do tricks in front of coffee shops and outdoor restaurants to amuse people...He’s like a street busker, and can draw a crowd.

Who is Onda's best pet-pal?

Well, we have a new puppy named Whammo! (with an exclamation mark). They’re pretty close, despite the age difference.

What is Onda's best quality?

Gosh, he has so many! He’s just laid back and happy, and always eager to learn new things.

Where is Onda's favorite outdoor destination?

He likes going to the farm where he was born, to herd sheep. He also likes the beach, as one would expect of a surfer dog.

If Onda could change one thing about Coloradans, what would it be?

Well, the Aussie actually should be the official state dog, in his opinion. The state played a big role in the breed’s development, and I think he’d be grateful for some recognition of that. Aussies aren’t really from Australia.

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

Well, he’s trained to understand Spanish! I suppose I’d ask him, “Estas muy contento?” (Are you happy?) He’d answer “Si!”

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

Matt Damon. Like Matt, Onda is smart, talented and has a great sense of humor. And he’s ruggedly handsome.

What advice would Onda give if asked?

I’d probably ask him for advice. He’s the brains in this partnership.

Visit Gavin Ehringer's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

Amy Giles & Sally

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Amy Giles, and I’m a young adult author. My debut Now Is Everything is available November 7th. The sassy girl with the racing stripe down the middle of her head is Sally, my faithful canine companion. Sally is five years old. Because she’s a muttigree, our best guess is she’s a Shepherd mix with some Jack Russell.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Sally joins me every morning for coffee and snuggles. Since I work from home, she’s always by my side. We’re both homebodies.

What's brewing?

I’m not much of a bean snob (unlike Hadley’s father in Now Is Everything). Today’s selection is Eight O’Clock Coffee, on sale from Stop & Shop, but perked in my electric percolator. I have a French Press in case of emergency (power outage), but I have no idea how to use it, TBH.

Any treats for you or Sally on this occasion?

Sally gets a sprinkle of grated cheese on her morning kibble. She’s fancy that way. I’m having a Kind breakfast bar.

How were you and Sally united?

A few weeks after our dog Max went over the rainbow bridge, my family felt the time was right to go to the shelter and adopt a new pup. I didn’t think I was ready; my heart was still shattered. But they talked me into it, and I’m so glad they did. Sally was curled up in a tiny ball in her cage. When they pulled her out and handed her to me, it was love at first sight. Sally wrapped her paws around my neck and wouldn’t let go.

How did your dog get her name? Any aliases?

Ha, welllll…my daughter Maggie named her Sally after Charlie Brown’s sister. My daughter Julia gave her the middle name of Hugsalot, because of Sally’s paws wrapped around my neck. That later evolved into Sally Peesalot when she urinated all over the vet’s office a few weeks later.

Does Sally do more to help or hinder your writing?

Sally is usually a great writing companion. If she needs to go out, she’ll put a gentle paw on my arm to tell me, “Okay, stop now and open the back door.” But one day when I had a deadline looming on a significant revision, a cute bunny took up residence in our flower bed. Sally barked out the window all day. That wasn’t fun.

Has Sally inspired the creation of any dogs in your fiction?

I have yet to put Sally in one of my stories, but now that you’ve pointed that out, I do feel a little guilty about it.

Cat, postman, rabbit...?

Squirrels, cats, rabbits, other dogs…any critter that dares to walk by the house will elicit the canine alarm. Nighttime can be brutal when the raccoons and possums come out to play.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

We’ve been trying to teach Sally how to fetch for five years. It’s still a game of catch me if you can.

Who is Sally's best pet-pal?

Sally plays nicely with Indiana, Franklin, and Augie. She just doesn’t pick up on the cues when they’re tired and no longer want to play. Indiana once hid behind a hydrangea bush to get away from Sally when he’d had enough.

What is Sally's best quality?

She is super lovable with everyone. She really is one of the most affectionate dogs I’ve ever met.

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

She’d want me to share her same boundless energy.

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

“Sally, what do you think happened in that last episode of The Sopranos?”

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

Amy Adams or Emma Stone.

What advice would Sally give if asked?

“See that deceptively benign patch of grass over there? Do not…I repeat…do not crawl on your belly over that. That’s a Yellowjacket nest. You do not want those buggers nipping at your nether regions. Trust me!”

Visit Amy Giles's website.

--Marshal Zeringue

S.F. Henson & Francie

Who is in the photo at right?

Here you see me, S.F. Henson, attorney and author of Devils Within, my debut YA novel that's out October 31. In my lap, sitting so that I can't reach my sweet caffeinated nectar, is Francie. She's a little over a year old. We think she's a Golden Retriever mix. There could be some German Shepherd in there, but honestly Francie is probably the result of a drunken night, so anything could be mixed in. (Just out of sight, and reach, is my favorite coffee cup).

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We needed an afternoon caffeine boost (and by "we" I totally mean me. Francie doesn't need any additional energy!). The weather was gorgeous and Francie had just rocked her daily training, so we headed to the back porch to relax.

What's brewing?

Usually it would be a mocha from my favorite local coffee shop, Angel's Island, but since it's closed on Sundays I'm drinking a Gevalia mocha latte from the two-in-one autodrip/k-cup coffee maker in my kitchen.

Any treats for you or Francie on this occasion?

Francie got a mix of Pet Botanics chicken flavored training treats and good old fashioned milk bones. An afternoon with my pup was treat enough for me.

How were you and Francie united?

My husband and I adopted her from Animal Services about a month ago. We'd actually gone to look at another dog and saw Francie curled up on a cot in the back of her pen. We couldn't resist her tufted ears and sweet nature. We thought she was a calm, chill older dog who needed love when everyone else was interested in the puppies. Turns out she was younger than we thought and she'd just been spayed. So not calm, drugged. Saturday morning she was a whole new animal! We couldn't be happier with our choice, though.

How did your dog get her name? Any aliases?

Our last dog--Atticus Hairyson Henson--was named after Atticus Finch (see the attorney and author part above) and my favorite Beatle (George Harrison), so we decided to stick with the literary and music theme. Her full name is Francis Lane Henson, Francie for short. Francie comes from A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, a favorite book of both mine and my husband's, and Lane from "Penny Lane." She gets the full thing when she's bad, and Francie-bug when she's adorable (which is most of the time).

Does Francie do more to help or hinder your writing?

Right now, hinder, but she's learning. She was a stray before we adopted her, so she's been desperate for attention. The more comfortable she gets with us, though, the more she trusts that we're not going anywhere and the more independent she's becoming. It's really great to see her transform and become more confident!

Has Francie inspired the creation of any dogs in your fiction?

Not yet, but I have some ideas brewing.

Cat, postman, rabbit...?

Cat, rabbit, squirrel, bird, chipmunk, you name it. If it darts, Francie is on it! We're trying to find ways to channel her prey drive before she drives our two cats insane.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

She's a sucker for a squeaker, but she really loves her Frisbee. She hasn't quite figured out the catching part, but the chase is half the fun for Francie.

Who is Francie's best pet-pal?

She'd love it to be the cats, but seeing as how they want nothing to do with her, Francie's best friend is my husband. She knows the moment his car pulls in the drive and wags her tail so hard her entire body waggles.

What is Francie's best quality?

Francie is extraordinarily good-natured. She loves everyone she meets and is the most complacent dog ever. We can play with her paws, cover her eyes with her ears, or hold her like a shepherd carrying a sheep and she just goes along with it.

If Francie could change one thing about Alabamians, what would it be?

She'd want more restaurants with outdoor seating. Francie loves going out with us (anywhere, everywhere), but we may be getting a little tired of the same two or three restaurants that allow dogs on their patio.

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

Do you think you're actually a cat? Francie tends to lay on the back of the couch, and drape across our backs, and try to squeeze her body other places cats go that dogs don't fit, so I'm not sure if she understands that she's a canine at all.

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

Chloe Moretz. Francie is young, and kind of sassy. I can totally hear Chloe as her voice.

What advice would Francie give if asked?

If all else fails, roll on your back and show your tummy. Humans can't resist a good tummy.

Visit S.F. Henson's website.

My Book, The Movie: Devils Within.

--Marshal Zeringue