CBSE Class 10 English – Footprints Without Feet
Chapter 1: A Triumph of Surgery
20 Important Questions and Answers
( As per CBSE 2026–27 Syllabus )
1. Why was Dr. Herriot shocked when he saw Tricki?
Answer:
Dr. Herriot was shocked because Tricki had become extremely fat and unhealthy. His body looked bloated, his eyes were red and watery, and he had no energy. Instead of behaving like a playful dog, he appeared lazy and listless. Dr. Herriot immediately understood that Tricki’s condition was not due to any disease but because of overfeeding and lack of exercise. Mrs. Pumphrey had been giving him rich foods, chocolates, cream cakes, and other supplements. The excessive pampering had ruined his health. Seeing Tricki’s miserable condition, Dr. Herriot realized that immediate action was necessary to save the dog from serious illness.
2. How did Mrs. Pumphrey spoil Tricki?
Answer:
Mrs. Pumphrey loved Tricki deeply and treated him like a child. However, her affection became harmful because she constantly overfed him. She gave him cream cakes, chocolates, malt, cod-liver oil, and a bowl of Horlicks every night. Even when the doctor advised her to reduce his diet, she could not resist his pleading eyes. She also failed to ensure that Tricki exercised regularly. As a result, Tricki became obese, lazy, and unhealthy. Her excessive care and indulgence weakened his health instead of improving it. Thus, Mrs. Pumphrey’s habit of pampering Tricki too much became the main reason for his illness.
3. Why did Dr. Herriot decide to take Tricki to the surgery?
Answer:
Dr. Herriot decided to take Tricki to the surgery because the dog’s condition had become serious. Tricki had stopped eating, suffered from vomiting, and spent most of his time lying on a rug, panting heavily. The doctor knew that the real cause of the problem was overfeeding and lack of exercise. He also understood that Mrs. Pumphrey would never follow strict dietary instructions at home. Therefore, he took Tricki to his surgery where he could control his diet and monitor his recovery. This separation from his luxurious lifestyle was necessary to restore Tricki’s health and energy.
4. How did Tricki react when he reached the surgery?
Answer:
When Tricki arrived at the surgery, he was weak, inactive, and uninterested in his surroundings. He looked silently at the other dogs and showed no enthusiasm. A comfortable bed was arranged for him in a warm room. For the first two days, he did not receive any food, only water. Initially, he remained quiet and inactive. Gradually, however, he began to show interest in the other dogs and his surroundings. His natural instincts slowly returned. The change in environment and controlled diet helped him recover. His reaction showed how badly his luxurious lifestyle had affected his physical condition.
5. What treatment did Dr. Herriot give to Tricki?
Answer:
Interestingly, Dr. Herriot did not give Tricki any medicine or special medical treatment. Instead, he treated him through a strict diet and regular activity. For the first two days, Tricki was given only water and no food. This helped his body recover from excessive eating. Later, he was allowed to interact with other dogs and participate in their daily activities. Running, playing, and competing for food improved his physical fitness. The doctor knew that Tricki’s illness was caused by overindulgence rather than disease. Therefore, a healthy routine and exercise became the most effective treatment for him.
6. Describe Tricki’s recovery at the surgery.
Answer:
Tricki’s recovery was quick and remarkable. After spending two days without food, he gradually regained interest in his surroundings. Soon he started moving around, playing with other dogs, and participating in their activities. He began eating normally and even fought for his share of food. His muscles became stronger, and he lost excess weight. The regular exercise and simple diet transformed him into an active and energetic dog. Within two weeks, Tricki became healthy, fit, and cheerful. His recovery proved that discipline, balanced food, and physical activity are essential for good health.
7. Why did Mrs. Pumphrey keep sending eggs, wine, and brandy?
Answer:
Mrs. Pumphrey was extremely attached to Tricki and constantly worried about his health. Although Dr. Herriot assured her that Tricki was recovering well, she believed that he needed extra nourishment. Therefore, she regularly sent dozens of eggs, bottles of wine, and even brandy to build up his strength. She thought these rich foods would help him recover faster. Her actions reflected her affectionate but misguided nature. Ironically, such rich foods had caused Tricki’s illness in the first place. Mrs. Pumphrey’s concern was genuine, but her understanding of health and nutrition was flawed.
8. How does the story highlight the dangers of overfeeding?
Answer:
The story clearly shows that overfeeding can have harmful effects on health. Tricki was given excessive amounts of rich food and treats by Mrs. Pumphrey. As a result, he became overweight, inactive, and seriously ill. He lost his energy and could not enjoy normal activities. The story emphasizes that good health depends on a balanced diet and regular exercise rather than excessive eating. Through Tricki’s condition, the author warns readers against spoiling loved ones with unhealthy habits. The chapter teaches that too much affection without discipline can lead to physical and emotional problems.
9. What kind of person was Mrs. Pumphrey?
Answer:
Mrs. Pumphrey was a wealthy, kind-hearted, and affectionate woman. She loved Tricki deeply and treated him like a family member. However, she was overprotective and lacked practical understanding. She believed that giving rich food and special treats would keep Tricki healthy. Even when advised otherwise, she found it difficult to refuse him. Her excessive concern often resulted in poor decisions. Despite her mistakes, her love for Tricki was sincere and selfless. She constantly worried about him and did everything she could for his comfort. Thus, she was caring but overly indulgent and impractical.
10. What qualities of Dr. Herriot are revealed in the story?
Answer:
Dr. Herriot appears as a skilled, intelligent, and compassionate veterinary surgeon. He quickly identifies the real cause of Tricki’s illness and understands that medicine is unnecessary. Instead of treating symptoms, he focuses on correcting the unhealthy lifestyle responsible for the problem. He remains patient with Mrs. Pumphrey and handles the situation tactfully. His practical approach and deep understanding of animals help Tricki recover completely. He is also caring and responsible, ensuring that Tricki receives proper attention and exercise. His successful treatment highlights his professionalism and wisdom as a veterinarian.
11. Why did Tricki become ill?
Answer:
Tricki became ill because he was overfed and did not get enough exercise. Mrs. Pumphrey constantly gave him rich foods such as cream cakes, chocolates, malt, and Horlicks. She believed that these would improve his health, but they actually caused obesity. Tricki spent most of his time resting and avoided physical activities. Gradually, he became lazy, weak, and unhealthy. He lost his appetite and suffered from vomiting. His illness was not caused by infection or disease but by an unhealthy lifestyle. The story shows that excessive indulgence can seriously damage one’s health.
12. What was the turning point in Tricki’s recovery?
Answer:
The turning point in Tricki’s recovery came when he started showing interest in the other dogs at the surgery. After two days of fasting and rest, he began moving around and observing his surroundings. Soon he joined the other dogs in playing, running, and eating. This marked the return of his natural energy and enthusiasm. Regular activity improved his appetite and strengthened his body. His participation in the normal routine of the surgery helped him regain fitness quickly. From that moment onward, his recovery progressed rapidly and successfully.
13. Why is the title “A Triumph of Surgery” appropriate?
Answer:
The title is appropriate because Tricki’s recovery appears to be a great success of medical treatment. Mrs. Pumphrey believes that Dr. Herriot performed an extraordinary cure and therefore calls it “a triumph of surgery.” However, the title is also humorous because no actual surgery or medicine was involved. Tricki recovered simply through proper diet, exercise, and a healthy environment. The title highlights the contrast between Mrs. Pumphrey’s belief and the simple reality of the treatment. It effectively captures the humour and irony present in the story while emphasizing the importance of healthy living.
14. How did the other dogs help Tricki recover?
Answer:
The other dogs played an important role in Tricki’s recovery. Their active lifestyle encouraged him to become energetic again. As he watched them running, barking, and playing together, he gradually became interested in joining them. Their companionship motivated him to move around and participate in activities. He also began competing with them for food, which improved his appetite. The healthy and lively environment helped him regain his natural instincts and physical strength. Thus, the presence of the other dogs contributed significantly to Tricki’s transformation from a sick animal into a healthy one.
15. What lesson does the story teach about love and care?
Answer:
The story teaches that true love should be balanced with wisdom and responsibility. Mrs. Pumphrey genuinely loved Tricki, but her excessive pampering harmed him instead of helping him. She confused affection with indulgence and ignored the importance of discipline and healthy habits. Through Tricki’s illness, the author shows that too much freedom and luxury can be harmful. Genuine care means providing what is necessary rather than giving everything that is desired. The story encourages readers to adopt a balanced approach in relationships and understand that proper guidance is an essential part of love.
16. Describe the condition of Tricki when he returned home.
Answer:
When Tricki returned home after two weeks at the surgery, he was completely transformed. He was no longer fat, lazy, or unhealthy. Instead, he had become active, energetic, and physically fit. His body was strong and muscular, and he moved with great enthusiasm. The moment he saw Mrs. Pumphrey, he jumped into her lap and licked her face affectionately. His healthy appearance surprised and delighted his owner. The remarkable improvement in his condition demonstrated the effectiveness of a disciplined lifestyle and proper care. Tricki’s return marked the successful end of his recovery journey.
17. How does humour add to the story?
Answer:
Humour plays an important role in making the story enjoyable and memorable. Much of the humour comes from Mrs. Pumphrey’s exaggerated concern for Tricki and her belief that he suffered from malnutrition despite being extremely fat. Her constant supply of rich foods, eggs, wine, and brandy creates amusing situations. Another humorous element is that Dr. Herriot successfully cures Tricki without medicine or surgery. The title itself is ironic because the recovery results from simple lifestyle changes. These humorous incidents entertain readers while also conveying a meaningful message about health and responsible care.
18. Why did Mrs. Pumphrey think Tricki was suffering from malnutrition?
Answer:
Mrs. Pumphrey misunderstood Tricki’s condition and believed he was suffering from malnutrition because he seemed weak and listless. She failed to realize that his problems were caused by overeating and lack of exercise. Thinking he needed more nourishment, she continued giving him rich foods, supplements, and special treats. Her misunderstanding worsened his health instead of improving it. This shows that she lacked practical knowledge about animal care. Her mistake highlights the importance of understanding the real cause of a problem before attempting to solve it. Good intentions alone are not always enough.
19. How did Dr. Herriot handle Mrs. Pumphrey’s emotions?
Answer:
Dr. Herriot handled Mrs. Pumphrey’s emotions with great patience and sensitivity. He understood how deeply attached she was to Tricki and therefore avoided hurting her feelings. Even when he knew that her overindulgence had caused the problem, he did not criticize her harshly. He reassured her regularly about Tricki’s progress and kept her informed about his condition. His polite and understanding attitude helped calm her anxiety. By balancing honesty with kindness, Dr. Herriot successfully managed the situation and maintained Mrs. Pumphrey’s trust throughout Tricki’s treatment and recovery.
20. What message does James Herriot convey through the story?
Answer:
Through the story, James Herriot conveys the message that excessive pampering can be harmful. Love should be accompanied by discipline, responsibility, and common sense. The story also emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. Tricki’s illness was not caused by disease but by unhealthy habits encouraged by his owner. The author uses humour and irony to show that simple lifestyle changes can often be more effective than medical treatment. Overall, the chapter encourages readers to avoid overindulgence and understand that genuine care focuses on long-term well-being rather than temporary pleasure.