Wine and the Veterinarian
take his phone calls, fearing another pet was searching for a home.
"My interest in wine began as a hobby to talk about something different, other than animals and veterinary practices," he said. "I needed to relate to others without fear that I would thrust a pet in their lap and guilt them into taking it."
Scott began with Italian wines, since he had a friend who imported wines to the United States from Italy. He also liked big Chardonnays from California. In the basement of his home, Scott experimented with winemaking. The results were mixed, but a couple times each year, he would invite friends over to taste his efforts. The invitation usually read, "Don't worry-I won't have any pets up for adoption."
Although Sophie and I faired well for the year, I have to attribute some of it to the introduction of Scott into our lives. We explored wine like scientists, urged pet adoptions and spaying and neutering, and became good friends. A few years later, I introduced him to a girlfriend of mine that took in homeless pets and found homes. Karen and Scott were kindred spirits and were married eight months later.
He has fewer pets now, thanks to Karen's efforts. She now works for the clinic. We still get together several times a year to taste wine and spend time over a meal, providing details about our lives.
I will never forget his experiences at the animal shelter. It played a big role in how I feel about spaying and neutering. I used to think a dog or a cat should have one litter before they were fixed. I don't believe that anymore.
Sophie went back to her owners after a year, still scratching, but much more well-mannered. I actually missed her for the first few months, and missed my frequent visits to the vet. She lived to the ripe age of 15, spoiled, pampered and nearly hairless from years of scratching.
The Merlot party is in its 20th year. I look forward to it each year, not only for the wine, but to see old friends and meet new ones over a splash of Merlot.
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