Dr Ruth Miller-Anderson doesn’t need telling that a dog is a woman’s best friend – because her pet has played nurse and looked after her when she was laid low by Covid-19.
As a busy high flier juggling her career as a success coach and pharmacist, Ruth isn’t the kind of woman to slow down. But when she caught coronavirus in February, Ruth was floored – and while she’s determined to get back on her feet, recovery has been slow.
Luckily her six-year-old bichon frise Stella has been a little star, refusing to leave her side throughout her illness, and offering comfort and company. “The fatigue is just crushing, and I’ve spent hours in bed – but Stella will be right there beside me, and go and sit at my feet.
Even if I'm asleep, I know she's there and she'll snuggle in. She hasn't left my side all the time I've been ill,” explains Ruth, 48. “We’ve always had such a lovely bond, but I feel like we've become closer because she seems to sense when I need that comfort.” ‘We have gained more love, loyalty and joy from our dogs than we could ever have imagined’ – Ruth Miller-Anderson Although Stella is devoted to Ruth, the loyal little dog has plenty of love for the rest of the family. “Stella’s always been very close to my husband Alan and he says: ‘I think you’re taking over from me now!’ But she understands when I’m sick and when I need her. “When she can see I’m not feeling myself she’ll sit with me, and when she’s sure I’m OK she’ll go back to Alan. “If Stella realises you’re not feeling happy she’ll come over and look up at you.