January 20, 2023

 

"Dearest Bailey, it has come time for us to take that yearly trip in the car, just you and me. Are you ready?" I asked as I desperately worked to get Bailey out of the house without the entire remainder of the White Dog Army following along. "Gee, dad, is this just a fun trip to, like, get ice cream or something?" she said hesitantly. "Even better than that, Miss Bailey, we're heading to the veterinarian for your yearly checkup!" I said trying to sound encouraging and excited after she was seated in the back seat. Bailey just settled in and breathed a gentle sigh.

Bailey is basically fearless when it comes time to visit the vet. There was no shaking, woo-ing, or ill-manered behavior. She exited gracefully from the back seat and strode confidently toward the front door to visit Dr. Julia. On the scale in the waiting room, she sat patiently as I verified that she had lost the final few pounds of excess weight and now weighed a perfect 46 lbs. In the exam room, she circled twice and laid down on the cool tile floor. Dr. Julia looked her over and checked all of Bailey's vitals. At one point looking through the chart, she declared that it seemed impossible that this lively girl was actually 12 years old! After traveling to the back room for a quick blood draw and a nail trim, Bailey and I went to the front desk, paid the bill and strolled back to the car.

"So, dad, since I did so well and have achieved the perfect weight, does that mean I'll get a little more breakfast and dinner each day?" Bailey inquired with curiosity. "Yes, sweetie, that's exactly what it means. Congratulations on a job well done."