Mixed Practice

I am learning that there are some topics that just shouldn't be brought up in consults:

Me: Both of your dogs need to be vaccinated to go into kennels, so I'll vaccinate this dog now and if you can bring your other dog in in the next few days there'll be enough time for the vaccine to work.
Owner: Is it alright if I come in next week? We're really busy at them moment, my wife and I are both running in the election this weekend and our schedules are just crazy.
Me: Oh that's ok, I understand, my [family member] ran in the last state election.
Owner:  Oh really, how did they do?
Me: Pretty well.
Owner: What party were they running for?
Me: [name of rather left wing political party], Which party are you running for?
Owner: [name of extremely right wing political party]

A vaguely uncomfortable quiet descends momentarily, the dog fidgets.

Me (smiling a bit too hard): Oh, right, good on you. Right, well I'll just go and get the vaccine he'll have his jab and then we'll be done.