The annual vaccinations for Toby and Chloe were overdue by a couple of weeks so we popped them into the cat baskets and took them to Nouzonville this morning.

They have been working on the road and carpark outside the vet's for several months and it's still not finished. We usually manage to find a space just outside the surgery but today we had to leave the car right on the other side of the carpark and stagger over carrying the two precious burdens.

When we arrived there were already three people in the waiting room, all with very well behaved dogs, and one with a toddler in a pushchair as well. So much for making an appointment for 10.30.

It was after 11 when we were called in by a very pleasant young lady. At first, we thought she was a new veterinary nurse but she was the vet. It seems Dr B's previous assistant has left to have a baby.

She thoroughly examined both cats and remarked on Toby's good condition considering his age - approximately 14. She spoke some English and was keen to practise it. However, her lack of experience showed when she administered the jabs. Toby squawked and wriggled and Chloe jumped. Normally, with either of the other vets, the cats didn't seem to feel a thing.  I wonder how she'll cope when the twins need to have their claws cut.