5 Questions
Why did Mrs. Pumphrey describe the experience as a 'triumph of surgery'?
She believed that the veterinary surgeon had successfully treated Tricki, improving his health significantly.
What was the reaction of Tricki when he saw Mrs. Pumphrey?
He leaped into her lap, licking her face and barking.
What items did the narrator help the chauffeur to bring out during the excitement?
Beds, toys, cushions, coats, and bowls.
What emotions did Mrs. Pumphrey display as the car moved away?
She was tearful and her lips trembled.
Do you think Tricki was happy to go home? Provide a reason for your answer.
Yes, because he was very excited and affectionate towards Mrs. Pumphrey.
Study Notes
Tricki's Condition
- Tricki, a small dog, is seriously ill due to overfeeding by his rich mistress, Mrs. Pumphrey.
- He is hugely fat, like a bloated sausage, with bloodshot and rheumy eyes and a lolling tongue.
- He has no energy and is listless.
Mrs. Pumphrey's Actions
- Mrs. Pumphrey tries to help Tricki by giving him extra food, including malt, cod-liver oil, and Horlicks, thinking he is suffering from malnutrition.
- She hasn't cut down on sweet things, as she can't bear to refuse him.
- She hasn't been providing enough exercise, as the gardener, Hodgkin, has been down with lumbago.
The Veterinarian's Advice
- The narrator, a veterinary surgeon, advises Mrs. Pumphrey to cut down Tricki's food and increase his exercise to prevent serious illness.
- He suggests a strict diet and warns that Tricki will become ill if not taken care of properly.
Tricki's Hospitalization
- Tricki's condition worsens, and he refuses food, vomits, and lies on a rug, panting.
- The veterinarian decides to hospitalize Tricki for about a fortnight to keep him under observation.
- Mrs. Pumphrey is distraught, but the veterinarian takes a firm line, as Tricki's life is at risk.
The Dog's Recovery
- Tricki is hospitalized, and the narrator drives him to the veterinarian's office with his belongings, including beds, bowls, toys, and coats.
- At the office, Tricki is initially ignored by the other dogs, but eventually, he starts to whimper and play with them.
- Tricki learns to eat quickly to avoid fighting for food.
Tricki's Return Home
- Tricki returns home, and Mrs. Pumphrey is overjoyed to see him, thinking it's a triumph of surgery.
- The narrator helps the chauffeur bring out Tricki's belongings, which were not used during his hospitalization.
Test your understanding of the story 'A Triumph of Surgery' about Tricki, a pampered dog, and his journey to recovery.
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