Although this book is a culmination of five years of research, recipe testing, and writing, I can hardly say that I did it alone. The support of family, friends, co-workers, collaborators, and pup-parents kept me motivated and helped to focus the voice of my words.
SALTY
You’ve brought not only dogs but also love into my life, and your support means the world to me. Thank you for listening to my endless ideas and providing your own while ensuring that we still make time to enjoy life. I sure do.
ALICIA DICKERSON GRIFFITH
A picture is worth a thousand words, and your contribution to this book has been a beautiful and realistic essay on the relationship between people and their dogs. Your vision has resulted in great visuals.
MICHELLE BRENES
I probably would never have ventured down this path without your suggestion: “You like dogs, you like to cook, so cook for dogs.” Thanks for helping me realize what has become my life’s work.
DOG STEW CUSTOMERS
You are great people who not only cherish your dogs but who also trusted me to help care for them. I appreciate your faith, suggestions, and encouragement.
SALLY EKUS
From the first day you received my proposal, you’ve been my cheerleader, my guide, my confidant, and a good friend. Thank you helping me realize what lies between these covers.
ADIDAS FINANCE
My friends, who just happen to be co-workers, have allowed me to derail many a meeting talking about dogs and the book’s progress. Thank you for your patience and invaluable feedback.
CAROL GARDNER
At my lowest point, when I felt disaster looming, you inspired me to keep pushing forward and find a new avenue for success. This book is a result of that conversation. It’s obvious where Zelda gets her wisdom.
RALEIGH, BAXTER, CHLOE, AND DUNCAN
My taste testers, companions for long hours at the keyboard, and my kitchen support. Thank you for pulling me away to go for walks, and for your incredible patience and love.
JANE CRIST
Mom, thank you for the endless days spent in the kitchen with me both at Dog Stew and at home. Everyone should have a mother as supportive and dedicated as you.
This book is dedicated to Jackson, but also to you.
LANE BUTLER
I asked a million questions and you provided a million answers. Thank you for understanding my vision and working with the team at Andrews McMeel to make it even better.
TIM LISZT
Thank you for your friendship foremost, for helping me figure out Dog Stew’s visual identity, and for solving every Mac dilemma I encountered.
SUZANNE MARTIN
Many people have said, “I love your book.” You were the first to say, “You can do better.” I hope that I have and I appreciate your input.
KARLA THOMAS
I held this book so tightly to my chest for years. You were the first person to read it, and you showed me what worked and what needed to be reworked.
COLETTE PECK
I couldn’t count the many hours you spent cleaning up the kitchen behind me and ensuring that I double-checked everything. Your attention to detail improved mine.
RYAN FICEK
Thank you for being such a great friend, “little brother,” and guardian for our pack.
MAC AND WENDY SETTER
Thanks for giving me a place to write, a kitchen test in, dogs to feed, and a wonderful place to retreat.