Yep! Herriot could have perhaps chosen a better opening. But even then the sequence had its share of humor. Do you remember Uncle, who was observing, and making unhelpful suggestions the whole time?
By the way, Herriot's books are now on Audible. I'm actually listening to the Audible version of the book. Like you, I read the hard-copy version years ago.
Yes, I have relatives like that!