Page no -01
Question 1. Why is Mrs Pumphrey worried about Tricki?
Mrs Pumphrey is anxious about Tricki because he seems unwell. He refuses to eat and has been vomiting, leading her to fear he might be suffering from serious health issues like malnutrition.
Question 2. What does she do to help him? Is this wise?
To help Tricki, Mrs Pumphrey gives him extra snacks like malt, cod-liver oil, and Horlicks alongside his regular meals. She also spoils him with cream cakes and chocolates and avoids making him exercise, thinking his tiredness means he needs rest. However, this is unwise because overfeeding only makes Tricki fatter and lazier, worsening his condition.
Question 3. Who does ‘I’ refer to in this story?
The “I” is the narrator, Mr James Herriot, a veterinary doctor.
Page no -03
Question 1. Is the narrator as wealthy as Tricki’s owner?
No, the narrator is not as rich as Mrs Pumphrey. He’s fascinated and surprised by her lavish spending on Tricki’s care and the costly items she sends, which he cannot afford for himself.
Question 2. How does the vet treat Tricki?
James Herriot treats Tricki like any overweight, lazy dog: by reducing his food and closely monitoring him. Gradually, he increases Tricki’s food in a controlled way and encourages physical exercise to improve his health.
Question 3. Why is the vet tempted to keep Tricki as a permanent guest?
Mr Herriot enjoys the luxury of food and wine that comes with caring for Tricki and is tempted to keep him longer to continue enjoying these comforts.
Question 4. Why does Mrs Pumphrey call Tricki’s recovery ‘a triumph of surgery’?
Mrs Pumphrey believes Tricki’s illness was very severe with little hope for recovery, so when he improved without surgery, she saw it as a great medical victory.
Page no -06
Think About It
Question 1. What kind of person is the narrator? Is he tactful and sensible?
The narrator is a skilled, wise veterinary surgeon. He treats Tricki carefully without unnecessary procedures and tactfully convinces Mrs Pumphrey to bring Tricki to the hospital. He balances compassion with professionalism, even when tempted personally.
Question 2. Was Tricki happy to go home? What might happen now?
Tricki seemed happy returning home to his beloved owner and luxurious surroundings. It is likely Mrs Pumphrey will now take better care of Tricki’s diet and may ensure he exercises regularly.
Question 3. Is this story purely fiction or partly real?
It appears to be a mix of both. Overfeeding pets out of affection is a real issue, but a vet lying or consuming pet’s food is unlikely. Some parts are probably exaggerated for storytelling.
Talk About It
Question 1. Do you think people like Mrs Pumphrey are merely silly or can their actions harm others?
Mrs Pumphrey’s over-indulgence actually harms Tricki’s health, showing that such behaviors are not just silly but potentially dangerous.
Question 2. Are there parents like Mrs Pumphrey?
Yes, some parents spoil their children or pets by overfeeding despite knowing the risks. They should focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Question 3. If you were in Mrs Pumphrey’s household or neighbor, what would you do?
As staff, I would feed Tricki according to the vet’s guidance and avoid indulging unhealthy treats. As a neighbor, I would advise Mrs Pumphrey to follow professional advice thoughtfully and support her in caring for Tricki.
Question 4. If you were the narrator, what would you do?
I would treat Tricki with kindness and care, be firm yet gentle with Mrs Pumphrey about diet control, and avoid consuming the gifts sent for Tricki.