In a forest lived a little rabbit. He was very hasty: as soon as he woke up, he'd run off for a walk. He didn't like brushing his teeth or washing up. Instead, he'd often sit in the clearing and get upset that his friends didn't come as early as he did.
One day the rabbit was waiting for his friends again and finally spotted a hedgehog in the distance.
Hedgehog, why are you so late? he asked.
I don't like to rush, the hedgehog replied, I need to wash up, 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 up and brush your teeth? It's better to get to the clearing early.
That's not right, the hedgehog objected, your teeth can get sick that way. 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! the squirrel answered.
You're all so boring, said the rabbit, let's play instead!
They ran around the clearing, jumped over streams, and picked beautiful flowers. When it was time for lunch, all the friends scattered to their homes.
How great that I have a handful of candies in my pocket! said the rabbit. I don't need to go home for lunch, I can just eat these.
You eat way too much candy! Your teeth will definitely get sick, the Hedgehog told him.
Nonsense! I have 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 started to cry.
The Hedgehog sighed sympathetically.
I warned you. Now you need to go see Aunt Owl. She's a doctor. She'll help.
Aunt Owl quickly healed the rabbit's teeth.
You must remember that you need to brush your teeth every day, she said, and eat less candy and rinse your mouth. Otherwise your teeth will always hurt. They might even get offended at you and run away for good!
From that day on, the rabbit took care of his teeth. And they never hurt again.
