Can’t Chow Down On His Reasoning

I’m working reception at a vet’s office when I see one of our more unpleasant clients come into the lobby. He has a habit of bringing his dog in off-leash, often causing issues with our other patients. On this occasion, he does not have his dog but is carrying a metal pet food bowl. He comes up to my window and firmly places the bowl in front of me.

Me: “How can I help you today?”

Client: “Is this food okay?”

Me: “I’m sorry? I’m not quite sure what you mean.”

Client: “My dog won’t eat it.”

Me: “Oh, I see. Have you recently changed brands? Pets are creatures of habit, so they can sometimes be put off by a change in their food.”

Client: “No, it’s the same food I always feed him.”

Me: “Okay. Has he been unwell at all, or recently injured? Sometimes pain or illness can put them off their food.”

Client: “No, he’s fine. He just won’t eat this.”

Me: “I see. I’m afraid I don’t know why he won’t eat it. If you’d like, I could set you up with an appointment—”

Client: *Interrupting* “I just want to know if this food is okay. I mean, does it taste bad?”

Me: *Taken aback* “I… don’t know, sir. Have you tasted it?”

Client: “What? H***, no! I don’t eat dog food!”

Me: “Neither do I, sir, so I can’t offer an opinion.”