Although we can usher them into the van with no great trouble, the dogs seem to understand when we arrive at the vet's office. They become just a tad reticent about leaving the environs of the auto to venture into the building where various indignities are fostered upon them. Of course we tell 'em it's for their own good but somehow our message is seemingly never received by the pack; they have to be practically dragged into the examining room where the vet performs his duties.

It ain't all bad, 'cause as we walk out the door there's a canister with cookies. If the dogs don't accept the cookie when given to them, we'll take it along with us back to the den where they can eat in the relative safety of their own home.

Since in the past we've used the refund we recieve from the IRS to help fund the annual physicals, blood work, etc. performed on the dogs by our vet, we always hope Uncle Sam's contribution to this endeavor is a considerable one. But even if it isn't, we make sure the pack gets the medical attention it needs. After all, it's our responsibility to be sure they're healthy and happy.

We wish and hope that all Presto Dog readers take the time to get their animals checked out by a vet, at least annually. It just makes plain good sense.