I’ve managed to avoid Covid for the last three years, but last week it was finally my turn.
It started with flu-like symptoms and I felt very unwell. There was no choice but to give in to it and take to my bed. I was unable to work and I didn’t walk Flossie for four days.
Fortunately, she likes to nap. So, each day I created a “food treasure hunt” to keep her occupied for a while, and then she was happy to snuggle up beside me.
When I noticed I couldn’t taste or smell anything, I realised it might not be the flu. The positive test was almost a relief. It was helpful to know what I was dealing with.
So, while Covid is now treated in a similar way to other viruses, I’ve been laying low all the same. We’ve been in our own little world and it’s not been too terrible. I’ve listened to podcasts, watched reruns of old sitcoms and slept a lot, with my faithful friend sprawled across the end of the bed.
Friends have kindly dropped off shopping and I’ve tried to find food that I can taste – smoked mackerel is a favourite for both of us.
Feeling brighter, yesterday we ventured out for a short walk, keeping ourselves to ourselves. Flossie was so delighted to be out and it did us both good to have an airing. When we returned, I started to make some lunch, already looking forward to my post-meal rest.
Flossie usually hangs around when I eat, although she doesn’t pester for food. However, there was no sign of her.
I scoured the house.
She had already decamped upstairs and was stretched out on my bed.
It seems she’s got used to all this lolling around. Although I’m the one with Covid, she’s certainly embraced the long afternoon sleeps we’ve been having.
I don’t like to tell her I’ll be going back to work soon.
She’ll be napping on her own from now on.
As published in the Bath Chronicle, 25 May 2023
Suzy Pope is a certified copywriter and newspaper columnist specialising in pets, business and lifestyle. If you would like help with a writing project, please get in touch.
