If you could come back as a dog or a cat, which one would it be and why? That’s a tough one. Although I like dogs better in this life, I’d have to say that because they’re more dependent on humans (which is always an iffy proposition), I’d want to be a cat. One without hairballs if at all possible.  

What is your pets most treasured possession? His squeaky chile. It’s actually -- shhh -- a Dr. Noyes cat toy that’s been converted: I took the catnip out and put a squeaker in.

Your proudest achievement so far? Learning to take care of another creature and writing a book to help others achieve that goal. It sounds self-serving -- and, hey, I wouldn’t be sad if it inspired someone to buy Am I Boring My Dog -- but it’s like not wanting to lie about my idea of perfect happiness. I’m proud that I was able to meld sense and sensibility in my discovery of a deep love for animals (one in particular). And although I’d been a writer for a long time, I found my voice in my dog book and blog.  

Who are your heroes in real life? Karyn Zoldan, who is a greyhound rescuer and indefatigable advocate for closing down the dog tracks, and Lizzie Mead, who not only rescues greyhounds but also other dogs as well as cats and, occasionally, children. Both Karyn and Lizzie live in Tucson and both make me feel like a slug for not doing as much as they do. I am nevertheless proud to know them -- and sometimes even party with them.

Editor's note:  Go "Like" Edie and her Will My Dog Hate Me Facebook Page. It's a guilt free zone!