My Friend the Monster

Allow me to introduce you to my friend The Monster.
It's best you don't shake his hand.
Despite his size, he really has
A "poor little heart," as they say.
Best not to look him in the eye at first,
Not until he's been allowed to toss you.
Please, don't mind the stench.
Monsters generally don't take showers
Or wear deodorant.
However, he does love a good mud bath.
Don't give him any meat.
He's on a vegetarian diet.
He's beginning to catch on to the whole "slim and fit" thing.
Yes, I know, he drools
And barely can put a sentence together,
But actually he's quite intelligent.
I'm teaching him some of the finer arts.
Right now, we're knitting and baking.
He has trouble threading the needle, though.
Go on, give him a hug!
And if he doesn't let go,
Tickle his belly.
He likes that.