In a forest lived a little rabbit. He was very hasty: as soon as he woke up, he'd dash off for a walk. He didn't like brushing his teeth or washing himself. Instead, he'd often sit in a clearing and get upset that his friends didn't come as early as he did.
One day the rabbit was waiting for his mates again and finally spotted a hedgehog in the distance.
Hedgehog, why are you so late? — he asked.
I don't like to rush, — replied the hedgehog, — I need to wash, have breakfast, brush my teeth. Only then do I go for a walk.
Oh, that's so boring! — said the rabbit. — I don't like wasting time. Why wash and brush your teeth? Better to get to the clearing early.
That's not right, — objected the hedgehog, — your teeth might get sore. Ask anyone!
By this time, their friends had already gathered in the clearing.
Squirrel, do you brush your teeth? — asked the rabbit.
Of course! I need strong teeth to crack nuts! — answered the squirrel.
How boring you all are, — said the rabbit, — let's play instead!
They ran about the clearing, jumped over little streams, and picked pretty flowers. When it was time for lunch, all the friends scattered to their homes.
How great that I've got a handful of sweets in my pocket! — said the rabbit. — No need to go home for lunch, I can just eat these.
You eat far too much sweet stuff! Your teeth will definitely get sore, — Hedgehog told him.
Nonsense! I've got good strong teeth. Look!
The rabbit picked an apple from a branch and took a bite.
Ouch! My teeth! It hurts so much! — he suddenly cried out and burst into tears.
Hedgehog sighed sympathetically.
I did warn you. Now you need to go to Aunt Owl. She's a doctor. She'll help.
Aunt Owl quickly fixed the rabbit's teeth.
You must remember that you need to brush your teeth every day, — she said, — and eat less sweet stuff and rinse your mouth. Otherwise your teeth will always hurt. They might even get upset with you and run away for good!
From that day on, the rabbit looked after his teeth. And they never hurt him again.
