Paws for thought with... Jilly Cooper
[Photo by Judy Zatonski]
Author and journalist Jilly Cooper tells us why it’ll always be rescue dogs for her…
Q: Who shares your sofa?
Jilly: My greyhound, Bluebell.
Q: Describe Bluebell in three words
Jilly: Bluebell is a strokeaholic and an applause junkie.
Q: How did Bluebell come to join your family?
Jilly: She and the late, divine Feather were ex racing greyhounds from Ireland.
Q: Why do you love Bluebell?
Jilly: Bluebell is beautiful, makes me scream with laughter and is my dearest companion.
Q: What’s the most extravagant thing you’ve bought for her?
Jilly: Bluebell lunches and dines on chicken and liver and beef mixed with melted butter and topped with pieces of pate, and a Digestive biscuit at bedtime (actually two).
Q: What’s the best thing about having pets?
Jilly: Joy, laughter, love and companionship.
Q: What is Bluebell’s worst habit?
Jilly: Bluebell sulks dreadfully. When I came home from hospital recently, dying to see her, she gave me one wag and then wouldn’t speak to me for a day.
Q: Where’s your favourite place to go with Bluebell?
Jilly: Walking around Gloucestershire.
Q: What’s the best pet advice you’ve been given, and by whom?
Jilly: “When man is lonely, God sends him a dog.” Lamartine
Q: Why did you choose a rescue pet?
Jilly: I’ve always had rescue pets because they need rescuing. I think the bond between a rescue dog and its owner is stronger.
Over to Bluebell...
Q: What’s the best thing about being Jilly’s pet?
Bluebell: I’m utterly spoilt and unconditionally loved.
Q: Go on, let us into a secret about Jilly!
Bluebell: Our housekeeper wonders if she has a secret lover because I take up so much of the huge double bed with my long legs that she often has to go and sleep on the other side.
