An Emergency

Scene: 4:50pm, Friday. Your average mixed practice veterinary clinic in a small town.
Participants: Receptionist (R), Equine Owner (EO), Vet (DVM)

(phone rings)
R: Hello, Greater Good Animal Hospital, how can I help you?
EO: I need a Coggins test on my horse by Tuesday. The fair starts on Wednesday.
R: I'm not sure that's possible. It normally takes a few days for the test to be done.
EO: I need a Coggins test on my horse by Tuesday. The fair starts on Wednesday.
R: Okay, let me consult with one of the doctors.
(Puts EO on hold. Phone cuts out.)

DVM: So, do they need the Coggins drawn by Tuesday or back?
R: Back.
DVM: Yeah, that's not going to happen. Even if we run the rush test, the blood has to be there by noon. It won't get shipped till Monday and there would be no guarantee of it being there on time Tuesday. Maybe ready by Wednesday.
R: Okay, I'll tell her.

(EO calls back.)
R: The vet said that it isn't likely to happen. The blood has to get to a lab in the center of the state by noon to get ran that day and it won't get shipped till Monday. It might be back by Wednesday.
EO: I need a Coggins test on my horse by Tuesday. The fair starts on Wednesday.
R: I understand that. But it's just not possible to promise that.
EO: I understand I can get the results by email.
R: Yes.
EO: What if you came on Saturday? Or if I brought the horse to you? Would that make it quicker?
R: No. It's the shipping that's the problem. The blood won't be shipped till Monday. It has to be there by Tuesday at noon to be read that day. It just isn't possible.
EO: I need a Coggins test on my horse by Tuesday. The fair starts on Wednesday. I'd like you to come pull the test.
R: Please hold.
(EO put on hold. R consults with DVM who agrees to go out when she is still normally asleep before doing morning small animal appointments. EO rejoices!)