Chapter 43 Summary and Analysis

Herriot meets Judy, the sheepdog, while treating Eric's bullock for wooden tongue, or actinobacillosis, which causes swelling of the tongue, excess salivation and protrusion of the dry tongue out of the mouth. Treatment with injections of sodium iodide in clear water, the preferred therapy, involves a prolonged IV drip. As Herriot rigs up his apparatus Judy comes close, licks the young bull's face then plants herself directly in front of him, eyes fixed on the patient.

Herriot returns in five days, and finds the bullock somewhat improved and able to eat gruel and hay. He sets up another injection of sodium iodide, and Judy once again takes up her position of vigilance. Herriot learns from Eric that Judy also gives every newborn calf a thorough licking over when it's born, as well as kittens. The sheepdog actually prefers to sleep in...