Thank you all so much for your words of kindness. When I came downstairs this morning and wasn't greeted as usual, my first thought was "What an empty house!" It will take some getting used to, I'm afraid, after so long.
Goodness me, Smudge, it seems like years since I last saw your name here on AnswerBank! It's good to know you're still about.
I see from your more recent posting, Pasta, that there may still be complications for your pet. I do hope they turn out to be harmless.
Regards to you all.