Pet therapy The 'pet therapy' dogs were in today. Goodness what a difference they make. There's an ancient golden retriever, and a huge, black, curly-haired - er - dog. They are patience personified. Neither thinks anything of being man or woman-handled, patted very hard indeed, or kissed repeatedly. I swear they smile.
Wolfie, the black dog, arrived as I did. I immediately felt cheerful. It's lovely to know I'll have something to talk about with mum. She loves animals, especially dogs and horses. She loves cats too, but cats would always have been trumped by dogs and horses - had either been practical.
Sure enough mum's face lit up as Wolfie walked in wearing his smart luminous coat. She stroked his silky ears, kissed his damp nose and entwined her fingers in his curly coat. He just sat there looking pleased and thumping his tail. They say fondling animals reduces blood pressure. I'm sure they're right.
Talking of fondling animals, I think I have found a home for Fatcat! Now that really would be something. Oedipus will be delighted. Poor Oedipus, not above bullying other cats himself, he is cowed by Fatcat. She only has to look at him to have him fleeing for cover.
Now it comes to it, though, I find myself oddly reluctant to part with her. I have got used to her. Oedipus is a nasty-tempered animal who will allow himself to be fondled only on his terms, Fatcat adores being petted. And, boy, can she purr! She is also, of course, a living link with mum. Amazingly, I will miss her.
But she deserves better than I can give her. I complain about Oedipus not being an affectionate cat, but actually this suits me well. I haven't the time to devote to a cat who needs affection as much as Fatcat. The young couple who might take her clearly adore cats. I think even Fatcat will get petted enough.
There is one thing though: this young couple live on a houseboat. Fatcat will be a boatcat! This rather threw me at first. Fatcat is 13. She never was the most adaptable of cats. How on earth will she take to living on the water?
But she won't, after all, have much to get used to because she will be an indoor cat. Rather than risk her falling into the water, Tim and Poppy* intend to provide her with an 'igloo' cat tray, and keep her inside. This will certainly meet Fatcat's approval. She hates going outside. Especially when it's cold. Apparently Tim and Poppy even have a conservatory. Fatcat will be able to sit on a cushion, soaking up the warmth of the sun's rays through the glass.
Fatcat heaven!
*Not their real names