"Meet Cocoa and Waylon"

- By Christina Parker

Some things in life are just meant to be—like peanut butter and jelly, morning coffee and a quiet porch, or in Catherine Jones’ case, Cocoa and Waylon. These two hounds have turned her home into a full-time cuddle zone, occasional wrestling ring, and, well, a place where gardening dreams go to die.

Cocoa’s story started in a tree trunk—literally. Found alongside her sister, she was rescued by the Northumberland County Animal Shelter. Catherine originally planned to adopt her sister but quickly realized that Cocoa, despite her initial shyness (complete with teeth chattering), was the one. The moment Cocoa curled up next to Catherine’s son, it was clear—this hound had found her family. Fast forward six years, and with Cocoa showing a little gray in the face, Catherine figured it was time to expand the pack. Enter Waylon.


Waylon, a four-month-old Treeing Walker Coonhound, had one important test to pass: Cocoa’s approval. She had always been protective of her mom, so Catherine was shocked when Cocoa didn’t so much as blink as Waylon trotted up for attention. That was all the confirmation needed—Waylon came home that day. And in case you were wondering, the name “Waylon” wasn’t random. The boy doesn’t bark—he wails, in a way that suggests he might have a country album dropping soon.

These days, Cocoa and Waylon are inseparable. Cocoa enjoys squeaky toys, but prefers quality time with her little brother. Waylon, on the other hand, has an eclectic mix of favorites, including balls, squeaky toys, socks, and, most importantly, Cocoa. They love walks, backyard playtime, and burrowing under blankets. However, their green thumbs are nonexistent—any plant Catherine attempts to grow mysteriously disappears.

Snack time is sacred, with Old Mother Hubbard mini bones being a fan favorite. Waylon also has a thing for carrots, and both dogs appreciate the finer things in life, like home-cooked pork tenderloin. But the best part about them? Their endless love and the way they demand attention—whether by pawing, climbing into laps, or straight-up flattening their humans.

Cocoa and Waylon: the sweetest little duo that complete the Jones family. They may not be expert gardeners or fans of fireworks, but their big hearts (and big personalities) make every day a little brighter. Just don’t expect to have much personal space—these two have claimed every inch of it.