In a forest there lived a little rabbit. He was very hasty: as soon as he woke up ― he would dash off for a walk straight away. He didn't like brushing his teeth or washing himself. Instead, he would often sit in the clearing and get cross 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 taking so long? ― he asked.
I don't like to rush, ― replied the hedgehog, ― I need to wash myself, have breakfast, brush my teeth. And only then go for a walk.
Oh, that's so boring! ― said the rabbit. ― I don't like wasting time. Why wash and brush your teeth? It's better to get to the clearing early.
That's not right, ― objected the hedgehog, ― your teeth could become poorly. 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 dull you all are, ― said the rabbit, ― let's play instead!
They started running about the clearing, jumping over little streams, collecting pretty flowers. And when it was time for lunch, all the friends scattered off home.
How brilliant that I have a whole handful of sweets in my pocket! ― said the rabbit. ― I don't need to go home for lunch, I can eat these.
You eat far too many sweets! Your teeth will definitely become poorly, ― replied the Hedgehog.
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 burst into tears.
The Hedgehog sighed sympathetically.
I did warn you. Now you need to go to Auntie Owl. She's a doctor. She'll help.
Auntie Owl quickly fixed the rabbit's teeth.
You must remember that you need to brush your teeth every day, ― she said, ― and eat less sweets 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 started looking after his teeth. And they never hurt again.
