[To tell or not to tell? ...Naw, probably better to save that "all animals can talk" thing for later. One revelation at a time, or he's at risk of breaking the poor kid's brain.]

Ach, no! As long as I'm dressed for the part, call me Scott. Dog or not, I'm still the same fella you've been in correspondence with all these months! Really, this species thing doesn't change anything!

...As long as you don't tell anyone.