Chapter 32 Summary and Analysis

Mr. Pinkerton, a local farmer, brings his young collie into Skeldale House to see Herriot because, although he's healthy, there's "summat comin' from 'is pencil." Herriot looks at the dog, but can't see anything wrong. The farmer, nervously eyeing the secretary, Miss Harbottle, gently flicks his forefinger in the direction of the dog's underbelly. "It's 'is pencil." Again Herriot looks and sees a small blob of semen on the end of the dog's penis. He points to it. Mr. Pinkerton nods and blushes.

Herriot says the situation is because the dog is 18 months old, has an excellent diet and probably not enough exercise. He recommends cutting back on the dog's food and increasing his exercise. He also gives Mr. Pinkerton some mild sedative to help. Mr. Pinkerton's face continues to register nothing but misery; and Herriot tries once again to explain...