Thanks for all the replies. I talked to the vets office and they said although they like to see the seniors every 6 months, that I didn't have to. So I asked if instead of waiting until April for his regular visit, could I take him in a month or two early and they said absolutely. That way I can avoid the extra cost now, but also not wait 6 months. I'm pretty sure he will need his teeth cleaned again in the spring also, so I can plan a bit for that expense. The costs for that starts at $400. And then I may start going every 6 months after that. So, I'm sort of compromising with myself so I don't feel so guilty through the holidays. Also, that would put his second visit of the year not as close to the holidays when I start doing them 6 mos. apart. I can see why an older dog needs to go more often, I'm just a little shell shocked this year from his medical bills. He's still a "young" older dog, though.
