Gallery | Comical chronicles of Connor’s four-legged friends

By Jay Bryce

Sep 27, 2023

Meet Connor Watson, the proud owner of a charming menagerie consisting of two dogs, Spike and Faith, and two feline pals, Jasmine and Willow.

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Faith is the epitome of chill, often enjoying leisurely cohabitation with the cats, resulting in adorable moments of shared naps and cuddles.

Going for a light jog: Faith and Spike. Photo by Jay Bryce

In contrast, Spike exudes boundless energy, forever eager to engage in playful antics, even if it means terrifying the feline members with his exuberance.

“They’re polar opposites, pretty much,” Mr Watson said.

The introduction of Spike seven years ago was to provide company for another dog in the family, who has since passed.

Majestic: Spike in flight. Photo by Jay Bryce

Faith, the second addition to the doggy duo, entered the scene due to Spike’s anxiety when left alone.

In describing their personalities, Mr Watson paints vivid portraits.

Spike, the ever-alert watchdog, barks at the slightest noise, ensuring no visitor goes unnoticed.

In contrast, Faith embodies serenity, often opting for long siestas.

Her love for food is unparalleled, and she eagerly devours anything edible.

Switching to the feline members of the household, Mr Watson introduces Willow and Jasmine.

Now around 10 years old, Willow arrived with her sister, Mr Watson’s previous cat.

Despite parental promises of a new cat after Willow’s sister’s passing, Mr Watson took matters into his own hands and welcomed Jasmine from a shelter at the beginning of the year.

Rock star: Willow practising her guitar skills.

“Shelters are the best place to get pets; it’s generally way cheaper, and they get looked after there,” he said.

“If you get a kitten, it won’t be feral.

“It’s a kitten; you’ve got to grow with it.”

Jasmine, known for her acrobatics on the back of couches and occasional hide-and-seek sessions, eventually found her place in the family and established amicable relations with the dogs.

“She’s always climbing up on the back of couches,” Mr Watson said.

Ready for her close-up: Jasmine saying hello.

“The first few weeks I got her, she would hide, and I’d get really scared she got out of the doggie door or something.

“But she’d be hiding under a cushion, and I just couldn’t find her.”

When asked about funny pet stories, Mr Watson recalls Spike’s “love” for tissue paper, an inexplicable obsession that has led to head-stuck-in-box escapades.