Olivia, Rocco & Cannon

1. What made you get them in the first place?

I always had a dog growing up and when the dog I had grown up with passed away, we could not come to terms with how quiet the house was. First off we got Rocco, and then 3 years later we got him a little friend called Cannon. After all a house is not a home without fury companions.

2. Why did you choose these breeds?

I always loved French bulldogs and Pugs, after doing research into the breeds, their needs fitted into our family life perfectly, the only thing is we could not decide which one we wanted. Then we come across little Rocco and could not resist his cheeky little face. 3 years down the line we decided to start looking for a little friend for Rocco, and this is when my partner surprised me with Cannon, best surprise EVER!

3. What is the most rewarding thing you have found about owning a pet?

• They are always there for you
• Great companions
• They do the funniest things that will have you belly laughing!
• They are always there to cheer you up on your worst days, would not be without!

4. Have you encountered any problems (illnesses, behavioural, social) with either of them?

Luckily Rocco has not had any major problems, however March this year Cannon started with a bladder problem. It became apparent that he had a rare form of crystallisation in his bladder called cysteine crystals. Cysteine crystals are gene mutation and unfortunately, this affected Cannon. Appointment after appointment, we thought we had the crystals under control, until July where we rushed him to the emergency vet as he had gone lethargic and not passed any urine for 24hr. The emergency vet drained his bladder immediately and put him on a drip, it then was brought to the vet’s attention that there was a large crystal lodged in his urethra and it was looking like an operation would be needed. We had to wait until the specialist vets opened at 9am the following morning so see what had to be undergone. The vets explained how his urethra was so badly damaged he would have to be castrated and a new wee hole made in replacement. The next 24 hours he underwent the surgery and was the most upsetting 24hours not being able to see him, and his big brother Rocco was missing him! By this time, you can only imagine the vet bill, and I am so grateful for scratch and patch in helping with this, even the customer service team I spoke to was so helpful, quick pay-outs, another reason why I have gone with you for both my pets again!

5. What is your top tip for people thinking about adding a pet to their family?

Do your research into the breed of dog/cat or any other animal you may be thinking about getting. Make sure you can offer them what their needs may be and ALWAYS ALWAYS ensure you have quality insurance!

6. Do you have any funny stories to share with us about Rocco & Cannon?

PLENTY… my two together are just a comedy double act. We have had a moment where Rocco managed to get himself stuck inside the sleeve of a dressing gown, Cannon rolled over and managed to roll off the sofa, causing him to have the face on with his humans for the rest of the night (like it was our fault). Rocco & Cannon once both tried to sneak up on a bird that was in the garden, the bird then started walking and flew off which startled them both and they quickly turned around and ran off back into the house! Numerous times, we have caught them on the patio table barking over the fence to get the neighbours attention for one of their ‘special’ treats (cheeky). Cannon absolutely loves the hosepipe, constantly tries to chase the water in his mouth, but hates the bath! Where as soon as you mention bath to Rocco he is straight upstairs and jumps in the bath himself!