It is difficult when there is more than one vet operating in the same office. If it is not an emergency and have to see who ever is working that day, I prefer to see the same vet all the time and will try to wait until she has a day with appointments. I am pretty sure that my computer record even indicates that I am NOT to be scheduled with one particular vet in the practise because I so strongly disagree with her opinions and actions so much.
I know that sometimes just getting the kitty to the vet is harder than the appointment itself. I have spent more than one morning chasing an unco-operative kitty to cage him.
Thankfully your vet understands that and agrees with you on upping the "calming" dosage.
As for the rabies, I never did understand why the requirement varies so much from province to province. I know in BC, it is every 3 years, but Ontario says every year.