Daily Animal Care Check

The sun came up over the gum trees. It was time for the morning rounds.

"Every day, we check four things," said Spike. "Water, food, shelter and health."

Little Thunder carried the checklist. Suzy carried the pencil in her mouth.

First stop was the hen house. The water bowl was full. The feeder had grain. The roof was snug. Suzy counted the hens. "All happy and healthy!" Tick!

Next were the goats. Their water trough was nearly empty. "Uh-oh," said Little Thunder. "That needs fixing."

The farmer came with the hose and filled it right up. The goats drank and drank. Tick!

Then they visited Lima the cow in the top paddock. She had grass to eat and a big tree for shade. But she was limping a little.

"We must tell a grown-up," said Spike. "Never try to fix a sore leg by yourself."

The farmer checked Lima's hoof and took out a little stone. Lima walked happily away.

"All done," said Little Thunder, ticking the last box. "Same time tomorrow?"

"Every single day," said Suzy.