Happy Gotcha Day, Diego!

Diego, our chihuahua, came into our lives on this day many years ago. He’s a little older now, and maybe a little wiser too, especially when it comes to treats and getting cuddles.

He loves playing with toys. He has a strong fetch instinct, and he will run back and forth across the kitchen to fetch those toys for you. For at least 5 laps anyway, and then he gets tired and looks at you as if to say, “What? You expect me to get that toy again?”

Like many small dogs, Diego is very reactive. Don’t rub him. Don’t be that person who says, “It’s OK, I know dogs.” He’ll just snap at you, sorry. But, earn his confidence and trust, and he will adore you for it.

Recently, he’s slowed down a bit. A trip to the vet confirmed a bulging disc in his spine, but pain medication and taking it easy is helping him recover. He has his own buggy for longer walks, and well, he loves when we carry him up and down the stairs too.

This is Diego. He’s a tiny dog, but he’s all dog. He’s full of life.


Apertureƒ/1.8
CameraSM-G998B
Focal length6.7mm
ISO50
Shutter speed1/390s

A little doggy in her coat

I don’t remember what this dog’s name was, but she was so cute I asked her human dad if I could photograph her. No petting was allowed as she is the typical small dog and isn’t fond of strangers rubbing her. Not surprising really. Would you like giants rubbing your head?


Apertureƒ/2.8
CameraILCE-7M3
Focal length24mm
ISO640
Shutter speed1/500s

Our Pets

Mommy Cat, the oldest of our cats passed away yesterday at somewhere around the age of 17. We’re not sure, because she adopted us around 15 years ago. We are sure that she was roaming the estate for some time before that.

She had lovely kittens, but only one is left now, Hoppy, who is in the centre of the image here.


Apertureƒ/1.7
CameraGalaxy S23 Ultra
Focal length6.3mm
ISO10
Shutter speed1/340s

Diego, king of the castle

Who rules this house? The animals do! Diego, our tiny chihuahua, sits in a bed sometimes claimed by one of our cats, Hoppy. She was very unhappy that Diego was in there. He’s the king of all he sees.

Isn’t he handsome in his new jacket? It’s lovely and warm and made with love by Jo!


Apertureƒ/2.4
CameraSM-G998B
Focal length9mm
ISO640
Shutter speed1/35s

Diego in Town

Dogs don’t need to wear masks around people, thankfully. He hates being left at home. As soon as he has an inkling that we’ll be going out he will sit by me looking directly at my face. If I’m not looking at him he starts jumping up looking for attention. He’s a small dog, but he makes his presence known!

Aperture ƒ/3.5
Camera ILCE-7M3
Focal length 28mm
ISO 100
Shutter speed 1/800s