Black Women Writers Who Loved Their Pets

I love my dog! He is my best friend and knows all of my secrets. He is who I test some of my new material on. In my mind, he gives me very critical feedback. All in all, he is my ride or die. We go everywhere together. I've been blessed to have a companion that matches my energy and is a full delight to be around.

Wrapped in warmth and wisdom, my favorite editor hard at work.

I jest many days that he is a dog that presents as a cat. He loves to perch and keep a watchful eye on the neighborhood. He'll let me play dress up from time to time and he'll even watch football with me. But he really lights up when it's time to play with his doggy best friend. They see each other and immediately get ready to run, jump and tussle. Every day he patiently waits for me to finish whatever human thing I deemed important so that we can hop in the car and head down to his friend's house. For at least an hour, they are in perpetual motion, either chasing each other, boxing, or chewing bones side by side. I say they are best friends, but they are truly more like brothers. I could have never guessed that by inviting my little guy into my life, it would result in me having four or five dogs to truly love.

Cap, forever in our hearts, pictured here with his loyal companion, a bond that reminds us love never leaves.

Pets are a phenomenon and the literary world did not escape them. There are so many famous and not-so-famous authors that thrived with loving pet companions. Two of my favorites, Toni Morrison and Alice Walker, had cats. Now, I don't know if I could ever go down that route, but it's good to know that there are good cat people out there. They managed to have the most amazing careers with those feline jokers hanging about.

Michelle Obama has Barack, but Bo is the cutest. He looks so fluffy and lovable that you can't do anything but warm up to him (if Secret Service would let you pet him).

I'm sure there are even more authors out there with four-legged friends that bring much joy and laughter. It is my hope that my pup's literary critiques will continue to help me grow as an author and bring another good story to life.