An octogenarian from Carmel, born Doris Mary Ann von Kappelhoff, has given $75,000 to a UC Davis scholarship fund for veterinary students, according to a press release this week from the university.

Generous to be sure.

But it pales next to millions given by other philanthropists to the university. So why the press release?

Because few benefactors have the star power of Kappelhoff -- better known as Doris Day.

It seems that Day, 83, the wholesome blond star of movies such as "Pillow Talk" and "Please Don't Eat the Daisies," has benefited through the years from UC Davis veterinary skill.