Bedtime Story (3/10/2018)

A friend of mine recently got three - yes, THREE - very cute puppies.  Having had cuddles with them and reminiscing over when my own dog was a pup, I've got puppies on the brain.  So, this week's story is all about how (and how NOT) to look after one!

There is, as always, also a podcast version of this story.

How To Look After A Puppy

We've just got a puppy.  

He's golden and he's small.

He's soft and he's called Humphrey.

He likes his squeaky toy and ball.

Puppies need lots of love

And looking after, too.

But I think I'm an expert now,

So, here's what you should do...

Play with your puppy outside,

Teach him to fetch, come back and roll.

Don't let him play computer games;

His paws can't hold the controls!

When your puppy gets dirty,

Wash him to keep him clean.

But you have to do that in the bath,

And NOT the washing machine!

When you're training your puppy,

Be sure to use doggy treats.

Do NOT give him packets of crisps,

Or a bag of pick'n'mix sweets!

Puppies need things to chew on,

So give him a special dog toy.

Don't let him chew the TV remote

(I did and Dad got annoyed...).

Enjoy running round the garden

With your puppy for hours!

But you have to teach him not to eat

Your mum's favourite flowers.

Don't let your puppy chew bubble gum,

Or attempt to drive a car.

Don't paint your puppy's toenails,

Or feed him chocolate bars.

Don't put your pup on a skateboard

And push him down a hill.

Don't spin him on a roundabout,

Or you might make him ill.

Don't ask your puppy to do DIY,
He can't put up a shelf!
Let your puppy sleep when he's tired;
He needs rest for his health.

Take good care of your puppy,

From his fur down to his paws.

You can even gently clean his teeth

- with his own toothbrush, not yours!

Remember your puppy is learning

And he's bound to get things wrong.

Try not to get too cross with him;

He won't stay little for long!

Most of all, love your puppy.

Because if you treat him right

And teach him how to be a good dog,

You'll have a friend for life!

THE END