Chapter 1: A Triumph of Surgery

Mrs Pumphrey’s silly actions of overfeeding Tricki had a harmful reaction on her pet’s health. She was making Tricki overeat and indulge in fatty food in the name of love and affection. This worsened his condition in such a way that he had become very lazy and bulky to even go out for short walks. Rich people like Mrs Pumphrey often indulge their pets in silly actions such as overfeeding to improve their health, which can otherwise have dangerous effects on them.

Yes, there are some parents like Mrs Pumphrey who spoil their children by over-indulging and pampering them. They try to overfeed their children or pets despite knowing the ill effects of overeating on their health. It is imperative that parents like Mrs Pumphrey should keep a close check and maintain a healthy lifestyle for their family members and pets.

1. If I were a member of the staff in her household, I would not have followed Mrs Pumphrey’s orders to feed Tricki blindly without considering its harmful effects. I would have, in fact, fed him as per the vet’s advice and ensured that he got enough physical exercise which helped him to stay active and healthy. Besides, I would have also given Tricki a balanced diet that is easy to digest and also would have skipped sending the unnecessary stuff, such as the toys and cushions, to the hospital.
2. If I were Mrs Pumphrey’s neighbour, I would have advised her to maintain a strict diet and engage Tricki in physical activities such as playing, running or going for walks. If his condition had deteriorated, I would have asked her to consult a veterinary doctor and follow his advice strictly to keep her pet’s health in check. Besides, I would have also been supportive and kind in such a critical situation when Tricki was supposed to be hospitalised. I would have tried to the best of my ability to be sympathetic and benevolent to Mrs Pumphrey.

If I were in the narrator’s place, I would have treated Tricki in a similar fashion with love and compassion. I would have been vigilant and caring, just like Mr James Herriot was towards Tricki. However, I would have been a little strict while advising Mrs Pumphrey to put Tricki on a balanced diet knowing her love for her dear pet. Besides, I would have also not consumed Tricki’s share of eggs, wine and brandy sent by Mrs Pumphrey and resisted my temptation to keep Tricki as my permanent guest in my hospital.