Chapter 23 Summary and Analysis

Mrs. Rumney calls Herriot to her home to see about Cedric, a bounding Boxer who is full of energy and, well, gas. His flatulence has become a problem in Mrs. Rumney's well ordered, upper class home. He prescribes a kaolin antacid mixture twice a day; but the remedy does nothing. On his second visit, Herriot is appalled when Cedric jumps on several of Mrs. Rumney's cocktail guests, then breaks wind in the parlor where they are gathered.

Herriot prescribes changes in diet and more medications, to no avail. Finally the veterinarian suggests that Cedric isn't the right dog for Mrs. Rumney. He suggests she give him to Con Fenton, an older man who has admired the dog and could give him space to play and run. Con Fenton jumps at the opportunity to have the Boxer, and Mrs. Rumney gets a...