the dog and the cat

We've had our completely neurotic cat now for at least 5+ years. I'm his favorite person in the world and he lives for me. This could be a symptom of his neurosis.

Last year we got a dog. I had always believed that if you have the cat already when you get the dog, that they get used to each other. I now know this is not true. Apparently, if you get them together, they grow up together. Basically, our cat still despises the dog and acts completely put out if the dog even so much as looks at him.

The dog however, cannot seem to come to terms with the fact that Tucker (our cat), does not want to a) play with her b) be chased by her.

After nearly a year together, this is what a typical encounter looks like.

1. Sandy realizes Tucker has come out of hiding - spots him in the kitchen. Tucker puts his ears back and wishes in vain that she will go away.

2. Sandy thinks she can slowly slide closer without Tucker noticing. He begins to move away.

3. Fully busted, Sandy goes into play position. Tucker tries to make an escape.

4. Tucker looses his cool and chases the dog while hissing.

Just another day in pet paradise.