Joyce Miller & Sammy and PG

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Joyce Miller. I'm a mechanical designer--I design experiments at a nuclear physics laboratory, Jefferson Lab, in Newport News, VA. In my spare time I volunteer for a greyhound adoption group, James River Greyhounds; I teach a therapy dog training class through Jefferson Lab's employee activity group; I paint; and I just started tap dancing when I turned 50 years old. I love to take my two greyhounds, shown in this photo of us at a tea party, on walks and I write a blog called Pawstcards from Hampton Roads. Sammy is a 5 year old male, white with brindle spots--which the greyhound people call "parti-colored." PG is a 5 year old brindle female.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We are stopping for a drink on our way to take one of our walks. Sometimes we walk by ourselves and sometimes we walk with a big group of adopted greyhounds called the Around Town Hounds.

What's brewing?

I absolutely love coffee--but my doctor doesn't allow me to drink it any more. So I drink herbal tea now. Usually honey chamomile.

Any treats for you or your dogs on this occasion?

My dogs get non-stop treats.

How were you and your dogs united?

I adopted my greyhounds through James River Greyhounds in Richmond, VA. Sammy was what they call an "oops" puppy. When the greyhound breeders don't witness the actual breeding of their greyhounds--the dogs can't be registered to race. So Sammy's whole litter was available for adoption as soon as they were born. I've had him since he was 6 months old. PG raced a few times at a Jacksonville, FL track and was a loser on the racetrack so I adopted her when she was not quite 2 years old. She's a winner now, though! Spends most of her days laying on my couch!

How did Sammy and PG get their names? Any aliases?

Sammy was named Sammy when I got him. I embellished his name to be Sammy Davis Jr. for several reasons. One is that I love tap dancing! And the other reason is because Sammy and I do a dog sport called Canine Freestyle or dog dancing. We do the dog dancing as part of our therapy work. Sammy has danced at schools, libraries and for a winter party for some refugees who didn't speak English but could appreciate music and dogs. Sammy just had to be named after a great dancer!

PG's racing name was PG Hairspray. I just kept the PG part because I couldn't think of anything to go with Hairspray. All of her littermates were named after PG movies--PG Top Gun, PG Footloose. It can also stand for pretty girl!

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Definitely cat! When greyhounds are adopted out--they are tested around cats to determine whether or not they can live in a home with cats. Both of my hounds flunked that test! We have a cat in our neighborhood that I call Death Wish Cat because he always wants to come up to the dogs when I'm walking them. It makes me crazy because the dogs go nuts around him!

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Has to be squeaky-toy for the greyhounds. The objective, of course, is to get the squeaky out of the toy! Greyhounds don't get any toys in the racing kennels--so when they move to a home they love having stuffies and toys.

Your blog is a wonderful resource for learning about pet-friendly destinations in and around Hampton Roads, Virginia. Do the dog's have a favorite locale for outings?

The dogs love all the walks that we go on but I suppose their favorites are the beach walks. I think the sand reminds them of sand at the race track--and they want to take off running as soon as they hit the sand. Grandview Beach in Hampton is a nature preserve so there are lots of smelly things on the beach for them--and they love that--the smellier, the better.

Who are your dogs' best pet-pals?

Sammy loves all of the greyhounds in our adoption group. One of his littermates from the "oops" litter, Jack, is in our adoption group and we see him at various adoption events.

And PG is Sammy's sidekick. I call her the Tonto to his Lone Ranger, the Robin to his Batman, the Rosie to his Sophia Grace!

What is each dog's best quality?

Sammy never read the book that says that greyhounds don't bark. He barks all the time--and it sometimes it seems to be for no reason at all. He just wants to make a joyful noise. It gives him so much personality--seems like he's talking to me sometimes. I think it would drive a lot of people crazy--but it's endearing to me.

And PG rarely barks--but when she does, she screams like a banshee. Their best qualities are giving me unconditional love.

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

If they could change one thing about Virginians--they would make them more welcoming of dogs in all establishments--like it is in France. We'd love to be able to go to a nice cafe after each dog walk we go on.

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

I would save this question for when they're sick--and ask them what's wrong. That is the time I most wish they could speak English.

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

Sammy would definitely be voiced by Paul Reubens, aka Pee Wee Herman! PG is very quiet and laid back--so she's tougher to cast. Maybe Zooey Deschanel.

Visit the Pawstcards from Hampton Roads blog.

--Marshal Zeringue

Nancy J. Parra & Little Dog

Who is in the photo at right?

Hi! I’m Nancy J Parra aka Nancy J Coco. I am the author of three new mystery series--The Baker’s Treat mystery series set in a gluten-free bakery. (Recipes included.) The first book in that series is Gluten For Punishment and coming May 2014, the second book, Murder Gone A-rye. The second series is under Nancy Coco. It’s the Candy Coated series, set in a fudge shop on Mackinac Island, Mich. (The setting of the classic movie, Somewhere in Time.) The first book, All Fudged Up, is out now and not only includes fudge recipes, but a sweet little Bichon-poo named, Marshmallow--Mal for short. The final series is the Perfect Proposals Mystery series which stars an engagement planner and is set in the Chicago area.

Whew-- that was long. My very own bichon-poo, affectionately known as “Little Dog” on line, tells me that was far too much information about me and not nearly enough about her. Little Dog, Boo Boo for short, is 7 years old and came into my life when I was searching for a companion to extend the life of our rescue puppy who grew to enormous size and whom I’ll refer to as Big Dog. Big Dog has since left us and crossed the rainbow bridge some four years ago, leaving only me for Little Dog to boss around. (She sighs. L.D. not me.)

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Little Dog is of French ancestry and, therefore, expects a daily trip to a sidewalk café for the finest coffee and doggie biscuits. She may be only 12 pounds, but she knows what she likes and she prefers to wear her hair in the bichon fashion as she thinks Poodle is a tad bit overdone.

What's brewing?

Espresso, of course. Little Dog would only sigh and roll her eyes at any other kind of coffee. She is very particular and believes the world should run exactly as she demands.

Any treats for you or Little Dog on this occasion?

Since I am gluten free due to Celiac, and Little Dog is gluten free by association, we dine on eggs with black truffles recipe, or brouillade de truffes.

How did your dog get her name? Any nicknames?

Little Dog’s nickname of “Boo Boo” came about when she was little and had a few accidents-at first it was “Poo-Poo” because she is a bichon-poo, but she refused to answer to that name. And so “Boo Boo” was born. (Little Dog appreciates her fans, but asks that I not reveal her actual name as the paparazzi would never leave her alone otherwise.)

How were you and Little Dog united?

Ah, you see I believe in rescue – to which Little Dog will tell you I did rescue her…from the pet store. I went in looking for a new leash for Big Dog and walked by the puppies. Little Dog took one look at me and said. “Hello, Mommy. What took you so long?” And then went straight to the back to be let out even before I could call the attendant. Then when she was brought out to the puppy meet and greet room, Little Dog reached for me, put her paws on my cheeks and kissed me in a proper French way. Everyone in the store melted. She has been with me ever since.

Are there any dogs in your fiction that are inspired by your dogs?

But, of course. In All Fudged Up you meet Mal, the bichon-poo puppy who is a natural pick pocket and clever little girl. Then in Book Two of the Baker’s Treat series, Murder Gone A-rye, we meet a not-so-little dog, Aubry, who happens to be a Great Pyrenees.

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

Little Dog is helpful with my writing, unless it is dinner time, walk time or treat time. The she jumps into my face and gives kisses. If that doesn’t work she pushes my hands off the keyboard to ensure I pet her and check the time. Her ruthless and patient pursuit of her goals has inspired me to meet mine.

Who are Little Dog's best pet-pals?

There was Big Dog, whom she bamboozled into doing whatever she wanted. Now she likes to meet her friends on walks –The Apricot Bichon-poo with the same first name whom she likes to chit chat with. Riley and his brother who she likes to flirt with and her sister’s puppy Hank, and the silly hound named Henry who lives with Little Dog’s Daddy.

Where is your dog's favorite outdoor destination?

Little Dog loves to take the jogging path through the preserve. There are so many rabbits to sneak up on and poke with her nose.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Little Dog loves her two Lambchop dolls--one nearly her size and one baby size. She also loves to play fetch with squeaky toys and pick up her leash and walk herself.

Cat, postman, rabbit...?

Be wary, wary, quiet...I’m hunting wabbits…

What is Little Dog's best quality?

Her sure and certain knowledge that she will get what she wants.

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

That I pet her far more than I pet the laptop. In fact I should just put that metal varmint away and only use my fingers to pet her and scratch her back.

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

Kate Hudson or Katey Sagal.

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

That’s a really hard question. She’s pretty expressive so it’s rare everyone in the room doesn’t know what she is thinking. I could ask her why she loves to wear her mailman costume to get the mail, but then she would say that was obvious and I’m a very poor question asker.

Perhaps the best question would be: What is the one thing she wants me to know that she’s never been able to get me to understand?

I suspect the answer would be “There isn’t anyone in the world who loves you more than me.”

Visit Nancy J. Parra's website, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Joe Choi & Colbie

Who is in the photo at right?

My name is Joe Choi. I’m a copywriter, golfer, and overall health fanatic. I also have a blog where I share my personal stories, advice, and anecdotes: Fescue Fairways.

I also have 2 books out. One is called Happy Foods and I wrote that on a challenge in 11 days.

It’s just a very short guide to eating healthy without stress. The foods mentioned in it have some mood boosting properties as well.

My second book is called Grand Central to the End and I just hit publish on it (11/25/2013). It’s a short fiction story about a guy with a troubled past who becomes free one day and decides to take a train trip to paradise.

My dog’s name is Colbie. She’s a female beagle and 4 years old.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I just wanted to enjoy some time outside since it’s supposed to get very cold over the next couple days. But I suppose I could also be celebrating my second book launch.

What's brewing?

A medium house blend from Greenberry’s café. I buy their bulk coffee sometimes. When I do, I usually get the Sumatra blend. Makes a good gift too.

Any treats for you or Colbie on this occasion?

Bully stick.

How did Colbie get her name? Any nicknames?

Colbie was named after the singer Colbie Caillat. That’s why it’s spelled with an “ie” instead of “y” at the end.

How were you and Colbie united?

Colbie is originally from SOS Beagles, a beagle rescue with branches in NJ and Tennessee.

Colbie was in the Tennessee branch and then transported to NJ right around the time I stopped by to look at dogs.

I originally inquired about another dog and the woman who runs the rescue suggested I take a look at some quieter dogs. I lived in an apartment at the time so a loud, howling beagle probably wasn’t the best way to build rapport with the neighbors.

Colbie was originally called Starbucks at the rescue. She came out with her tail wagging so much that her butt was shaking side to side. She was very friendly and playful so I knew I had to pick her.

Who are Colbie's best pet-pals?

In the apartment complex I used to live in, she liked a pit bull named Rumble and another yorkie named Ubu. She was also good friends with a westie. Dogs in NYC see other dogs and they don’t think too much about since there are so many around.

Now that we’re not in the city, we’ll walk and see one or two dogs each week. The other dogs tend to go really crazy when they see another dog since they’re not used to it like city dogs. I think this freaks Colbie out a little so she tends to shy away from them. She prefers to spend more time with people now.

Where is Colbie's favorite outdoor destination?

Colbie likes taking short walks around the block, but she prefers staying inside and sleeping.

She used to like Central Park a lot. I’ve tried taking her hiking and to nearby dog parks, but she doesn’t seem to care too much for them.

Squeaky toy, ball, stick...?

Probably sticks. Whenever she’s walking she’ll pick up a stick and walk with it for a while. She used to like toys a lot and would destroy them, so I’d always have to constantly buy new ones.

She plays with a few stuffed animal toys now, but it’s more of a gentle playing now.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Squirrel, but if she sees a rabbit she’ll go crazy and start crying.

What is Colbie's best quality?

She’s very friendly. There’s not a mean bone in her body.

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

She would probably make me give her more food.

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

I’m so bad with actors and actresses. I could be surrounded by all the famous ones, and I wouldn’t even recognize them. I’m probably not the best person to answer this.

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

Why don’t you like to go on walks sometimes?

Visit Fescue Fairways: Joe Choi's Personal Blog.

--Marshal Zeringue

Leslie Davis & Tucker

Who is in the photo at right?

I'm Leslie Davis, freelance graphic designer and blogger for Paper Daisy Designs and Paper Daisy Kitchen.

Our always adorable and super smart Goldendoodle is named Tucker.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

Just an ordinary day around the house. Getting my first look at emails, planning posts for the blog and upcoming projects.

What's brewing?

I'm not a coffee drinker, but I am passionate about my chai tea with soy creamer, or the occasional Chai Tea Latte.

Any treats for you or Tucker on this occasion?

Well, to be honest, he's enjoying a cup of water! He does love his peanut butter treats and when he's especially lucky he gets to lick an empty jar of peanut butter. He loves it!

How were you and Tucker united?

We picked him out as an early Christmas present 7 years ago. Best present we ever got, by far!

How did Tucker get his name? Any aliases?

Our family tossed around quite a few names, but agreed to wait until he came home with us to decide. Somehow, Tucker seemed to fit. He has lots of aliases; Doodlebug, Babydog, Curlyboy, Snugglebunny or just Baby.

Does Tucker do more to help or hinder your design work?

Tucker doesn't usually join me up in the studio unless he needs something, like lunch! He prefers to guard the house from the couch. But he loves to join me in the garage when my projects aren't too noisy or messy.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Probably squirrel, we don't have enough mature trees in our backyard to have them scampering around. He always willing to befriend cats, though most are unwilling. He doesn't bark at the postman, unless he rings the bell. But the UPS man, he acts like he's the worst person in the world.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

All of the above? He loves a ball and adores squeaky toys, but we don't buy them because he can't stop squeaking them!

His most beloved toy is now just a small ball we call the "nub". It was a rubber dumbbell looking chew toy we got for him when he was a puppy. Now, he takes the "nub" and taunts us with it using his heavy breathing sound. The moment you reach to grab it from his mouth he sucks it in and you lose. Ha!

Does Tucker have a favorite place to go for outings?

His favorite outing would have to be the nature trail that goes through town. He and I run several times a week. It keeps us both sane.

Who is Tucker's best pet-pal?

He's always happy to see his neighborhood friends and we dog sit for them sometimes, but he really seems pleased when they leave. I think he's kind of a loner.

What is Tucker's best quality?

Tucker is so loving and smart. Every person is a potential friend. He's almost too smart sometimes. He seems to understand everything we say, even when you think he's not paying attention.

If Tucker could change one thing about Missourians, what would it be?

I'm not sure he'd change anything. I know he was happy to discover snow when we moved here from Louisiana. He gets all frisky at the the first sight of flurries.

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

Are you really watching T.T.V.? Is that how you've gotten to be so smart? Or are you just waiting for the next animal to appear on the screen?

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

Oh, I can't decide. I do know for certain Tucker has a speech impediment. He can't say his L's. Yeah, we are some of those crazy people who talk for their dog.

Visit the Paper Daisy Designs and Paper Daisy Kitchen websites.

--Marshal Zeringue

Karen Rose Smith & Hope and Riley

Who is in the photo at the right?

Karen Rose Smith, novelist, who writes mysteries and romances. The dog in the photo with me is Hope, a friend's female, two-year-old English Cream Golden Retriever.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

I often have coffee, talk and lots of laughs when I visit Hope and her brother Riley who's a five-year-old Australian Shepherd. Their parents, my husband and I like specialty coffees.

What's brewing?

Baltimore Coffee chocolate raspberry flavor is brewing served with a touch of cream.

Goodies to go with the coffee are cranberry-pecan scones.

Any treats for Hope and Riley on this occasion?

Holistic baked dog treats made with peanut flour, oatmeal, peas, and pumpkin!

How were you and Hope and Riley introduced?

I first met Riley in October 2009 when my friends adopted him from the Carroll County (Maryland) Humane Society.

I met Hope on a visit to our friends' house in February 2012. Her brother-in-law from Tennessee breeds English Cream Golden Retrievers and Hope was part of the most recent litter. She was the best pup as she traveled across the country with her new family.

Do Hope and Riley have nicknames?

Hope's nickname is Hope-a-lope and Riley's nickname is Riles.

Would you tell us about the animals in your new novel?

There are a few animals in my new novel Staged to Death since my sleuth takes in strays. Dylan, a mixed-breed canine, is black and white and fluffy-furred all over. My sleuth had been listening to Bob Dylan when her neighbor brought Dylan to her. He weighs about ten pounds and has a tail that could practically dust Caprice's mosaic-topped coffee table in one sweep.

Sophia is a long-haired, strikingly-colored calico cat who Caprice had found not long after she'd moved into her home. When she'd designed her living room in sixties-chic bright colors, she'd worked a floor-to-ceiling cat tree into the plan having it specially carpeted in turquoise. Sophia loves it.

[photo right: Hope and Riley]

In the course of the book, Caprice also takes in two yellow tigers—Creamsicle and Stripes—who are about ten weeks old. Sophia and Dylan accept them but Caprice finds a good home for them with a single mom and her daughter.

Were the fictional dogs inspired by any real life dogs?

Dylan was vaguely inspired by a dog we adopted when our son was small. Tamara was an Australian terrier with oodles of energy. In book 2 of this mystery series, Deadly Decor, a cocker spaniel is a prominent character! My dad had given my mom Buffer, a cocker spaniel pup [photo left], on their first anniversary. He was a childhood companion.

Where do Hope and Riley like to go for an outing?

Hope is a camping and hiking dog. She's been camping in the Outer Banks and hiking in Dolly Sods in West Virginia.

Riley is more of a stay at home dog but he likes play dates with a poodle named Napoleon!

What is each dog's most endearing quality?

Hope is such a sweetheart, gentle and calm, and just wants to be loved.

Riley has a protective spirit and is loyal.

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

Uma Thurman would be Hope's voice and Hugh Jackman would be Riley's.

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

Riley was abandoned at the shelter when he was a year old. I'd like to know where he came from and his story.

I would ask Hope if she misses her brothers and sisters from the farm where she was born.

Visit Karen Rose Smith's website, blog, Facebook page, and Twitter perch.

--Marshal Zeringue

Hanifa Menen & Caesar

Who is in the photo at right?

This is a picture of me and my fur-baby Caesar. My name is Dr. Hanifa Menen and I am a Naturopathic Doctor working in Toronto and Oakville, Ontario. My practice is focused on cancer prevention, care and management. I also write at the Schnauzer Savvy blog. It's a useful read for not only schnauzer-parents, but for anyone interested in natural healing options for dogs in general, and for those who would like more information about training and various other tid-bits of doggy-info. My inspiration for the blog is my wonderfully smart, intelligent, and truly best-friend, Caesar. His full name is Caesar Augustus von Schnauzer, a 3-year old male, black and silver, miniature schnauzer.

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

We are enjoying one of our typical relaxed Sunday afternoons at home today -- to celebrate the end of a busy morning of cooking for the week for both of us! Now it's time to really kick back and relax together!

What's brewing?

I am enjoying a nice Sumatran coffee (Starbucks, this is our favourite!), and Caesar is enjoying his lucky cup (filled with just a touch of water).

Any treats for you or Caeser on this occasion?

Today we are enjoying some home-made apple cake!

How were you and Caesar united?

After searching online for some length of time to find a breeder of miniature schnauzers in Ontario, my husband and I met Caesar at the breeder's home 4-weeks after his birth. We met his litter-mates too, but while deciding between him and his brother (we wanted a male dog) -- he gave us a lively bark as if to say "choose me" -- and we did. Picked him up from the breeder 4-weeks later and the ride home with him asleep in my lap had our hearts forever united.

How did Caesar get his name? Any aliases?

We knew the kid was going to have personality from the first day we met him. And we wanted him to have a powerful name for a small dog. Caesar Augustus seemed to match his "drive to win" energy... but had to respect his own roots, so "von Schnauzer" only seemed right.

Caesar has his own YouTube channel. What are a couple of your favorite videos of his tricks?

Yes, since we decided that Caesar was going to be a "Dogtor" (as close to his parents' profession as possible) we are determined to help him learn as much as he can. A couple of my favourite videos are on his YouTube channel DogtorCaesar: "Remember My Name" and "Caesar Moves Like Jagger", although he really showed us his smarts with one of his original performances in "Lord of the Rings."

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

Generally scared/wary of cats, will bark at the postman (or anyone else who enters his space -- even visual space), will pull at squirrels when we're walking him, but resists doing so with our verbal command of "co-existence."

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

Loves each of these, especially if just passed to him from me or his Dad, but he does have a particular weakness for soft and squeaky rubber chickens!!

Does Caesar have a favorite place to go for outings?

This year we discovered a beautiful trail through a forest in Oakville... this has turned into Caesar's favourite place to visit this year!

Who is Caesar's best pet-pal?

Caesar's pet-pals are largely the inanimate variety. He loves to hang out with his "buddies" -- here [photo left] he's hanging out at the window with Elephant, Snoopy and Monkey... Although we also have pet budgies, Caesar is never able to get close enough to really "bond" with them!!

What is Caesar's best quality?

That would have to be his commanding presence! Aside from his good looks, he will make sure that you will notice him (often through barking) and in no time he will win you over with his charm (likely with the goal of getting a treat from you!).

If Caesar could change one thing about Torontonians, what would it be?

Stop rushing!! Caesar would want Torontonians to slow down. Rushing about without a true appreciation of nature and the basic joys of really connecting with one another, is something he just doesn't understand. Caesar would certainly want Torontonians to stop to smell the roses (and trees, fire hydrants, each other...).

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

What does love smell like? (Of course, I would want to hear him answer "our home" or "Mom.")

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

Joe Pesci (no profanities in the script, but his voice is perfect!).

Visit the Schnauzer Savvy blog and Caeser's YouTube channel.

--Marshal Zeringue

Sarah McCoy & Gilbert

Who is in the photo at right?

This is Gilbert (a.k.a. Gilly-beart). The ‘t’ is silent. He’s a two-year old Coton de Tulear. A French pup. Beside him is his fur mama Sarah McCoy, author of the international bestseller The Baker’s Daughter, the forthcoming novella, The Branch of Hazel (Penguin, summer 2014) and the forthcoming novel New Charlestown (Crown, summer 2015).

What's the occasion for Coffee with a Canine?

It’s a typical day at home. Hot caffeinated beverages are more prevalent than water in our house. In fact, if ever I don’t have a mug in my hand, I think it makes Gilly nervous. He suspects the next epic event will be me putting my shoes on, which is on par with world implosion. “She’s leaving me? She’s leaving me? Oh my God, help, help, don’t leave me!”

What's brewing?

To be truthful, I usually do tea—Irish Breakfast, Earl Grey, Oolong, Matcha Green. But on occasion, particularly around the holidays, I’ll partake of the noble coffee bean. My mother, grandparents and husband are faithful coffee drinkers so when I smell a pot brewing, it reminds me of home. For my mom and husband that’s any medium roast. For my Puerto Rican grandparents, there is no substitute: Café Bustelo or nothing at all. So I’m sharing a cup of that today, in the spirit of family.

Any treats for you or Gilbert on this occasion?

I’m a baking-loving lady. I started baking Gilly organic pumpkin dog biscuits about a year ago and they’ve become a staple in his treat diet. Full of the best ingredients, flaxseed, eggs, pumpkin, chicken broth, etc. I love that I can make him something I know is good for him and that he loves. I could probably eat these too (they are allergen-free), but I don’t get as jazzed by the taste of chicken and pumpkin together.

How were you and Gilbert united?

I went through a breeder outside of Chicago. Gilly was my second fur darling. Our first was a loving cockapoo named Gatsby who sadly passed away of cancer at age two. The breeder contacted me on Facebook when she saw how heartsick I was over Gatsby’s dying. She said she felt a divine connection—and it turned out to be so!

I was waiting for Gilly before he was even conceived, then had the privilege of watching his dog mama grow beautifully round with his litter and give birth. From his first breath of air, I knew he was mine. When he was old enough to travel, I flew to Chicago and brought him home to our family in El Paso.

How did Gilbert get his name? Any aliases?

He’s named after one of my all-time favorite literary characters. Gilbert Blythe from Anne of Green Gables. However, we call him Gilly-bear(t), Gilly or Gil.

Have any Gilbert-inspired dogs appeared in your published work?

Not yet but one is about to. (I’m giving away book secrets here…) My third novel for Crown, New Charlestown, has a beloved dog in it. Gilly was certainly inspiration alongside Gatsby. They have been my fur children.

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

He’s very considerate of my writing hours. He sleeps either behind me in my desk chair (taking up most of the real estate… I usually end up perching on the edge) or under my writing desk on his pillow. He keeps me comfy and warm on cold days.

Cat, postman, squirrel...?

All of the above and he goes bark-nuts. He has particular animosity toward plastic bags. Trash bags, store bags, any bag that crinkles and he’s positive it’s a monster in our midst.

Ball, squeaky-toy, stick...?

He’s not a throw-&-fetch dog. You can throw, but he’ll stay next to you and watch. The only toy he’ll jump through hoops to collect is his “ducky”—a worn-out, gutless, stuffed animal that looks more like a sock than a fowl. But he loves it. He also has a heart chew toy that once was the body of a teddy bear my mom gave him when he was born. Those are his favorite things. If you give him any squeaky toy, he’ll gnaw out the squeaker in under an hour. I can’t tell if he loves it or hates it, but the squeakers don’t last around here.

Does Gilbert have a favorite place to go for outings?

He loves being home on my family’s land in Virginia. All the lush plants and woodland smells. The animals and nature are so unlike the desert. He tuckers himself out gleefully romping through their backyard with his ‘uncles’—my parent’s two yellow Labradors.

Who is Gilbert's best pet-pal?

His uncle Max. One of my parent’s labs in Virginia. They have a bond that I’ve never seen between two animals before.

What is Gilbert's best quality?

He sees my feelings more than any other little soul on the planet. He senses when I’m sad beneath the smile. When I’m scared beneath the brave face. When I just need someone to snuggle at my side and breathe deep… reminds me to do the same.

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

Hmm, given that we aren’t true Texans, I’m not sure he’d have an opinion about Texans in general. I’d say he probably just wishes Texas was only a mile away from Virginia. That would make us both happy.

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

What in the world possessed you to eat ____ (fill in the blank: my husband’s toe fuzz, used tissues, a stink bug, etc.)? I’m baffled by the stuff he licks up and the stuff he balks at (steak, pork chops, cottage cheese).

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

Oh, this a fun one! I polled my husband. It would need to be an actor of shorter stature but big personality, tons of energy, a man of style, and cheeky. So we went with Jeremy Piven.

For more information on Sarah McCoy’s upcoming releases (The Branch of Hazel and New Charlestown) and her other books, visit Sarah McCoy’s website. To see what shenanigans Sarah and Gilly are up to on any given day, you can find them on Facebook and Twitter.

The Page 69 Test: The Time It Snowed in Puerto Rico.

The Page 69 Test: The Baker's Daughter.

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