Fourth-generation Chinese-Filipina-Hawaiian-and-English American actress Kelly Hu was in 1985 the first Asian ever crowned Miss Teen USA, and got her first acting break in the sitcom Growing Pains in 1987. She plays Pearl in The Vampire Diaries, and has been in such films as X2: X-Men United (2003) and The Scorpion King (2002).

Her "chirussell" Jack Russell Chihuahua mix is named Mushu, who almost always has one ear up and one ear down. She came from a rescue shelter. "When I first saw Mushu at Ŭthe Much Love pet rescue across from the Santa Monica farmer's market six years ago, I was not looking for a dog. ŬI have always loved animals, but I never felt I had the time to dedicate to such a big commitment.

"But the moment our eyes connected I knew that if I didn't take this sweet animal home that day, I would regret it for the rest of my life. ŬI have never done anything so spontaneous."

Mushu is a good traveller and has been all over the USA and Canada with Kelly. "Mushu has been a source of happiness for me since I first laid eyes on her. ŬShe has made me laugh every single day since then without fail. ŬI truly think she is what keeps me young, fit and happy. ŬI cherish every day we have together."