Dogs in weddings.

One popular trend with weddings is having Man's Best Friend (of the canine species) be part of the ceremony. The CBS Early Show featured this very amusing TV story, "Some Weddings Going to the Dogs." Dogs, "are either being entrusted with roles such as ring bearers, bridesmaids, and groomsmen or are simply present during the ceremony to bear witness to their owner’s nuptials." There are even tips on How to Include Your Dog in the Wedding. "Have the dog bring up the rings on a satin pillow tied to his collar or - if he is really well trained - in his mouth."

If Tiller were part of our wedding it would go something like this: As Jerrod waits for our grand entrance and before I can even walk to the ceremony, Tiller comes loping across the field, having broken free of her leash. After leaving two big muddy paw prints on the front of my gorgeous dress, she then knocks down at least two bridesmaids and licks off their lovely makeup. (Right now Tiller is barking at me because I will not throw her ball).

So, the chocolate fur ball goes sprinting down the aisle, with the rings grasped tightly in her jaw, enticing the groomsmen by shaking the satin pillow the same way she "kills" her stuffed duck. She proceeds to run joyfully into the prairie where she happily rolls in a huge buffalo pile.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer also features a story about Dogs in Weddings, "While assisting with a "pet wedding" for the first time, one wedding planner said, 'A mother-in-law insisted on walking down the aisle with her poodle. The bride feared that her future in-law would drink too much and lose sight of the poodle.'" HA! My mother-in-law did volunteer Ted Williams the bulldog to wear a tuxedo as part of our ceremony, which would have been adorable, but probably ended in disaster (not due to her drinking, just him being a crazy bulldog puppy).

The Dog Whisper, Cesar Millan, offers some of his own advice about furry friends in ceremonies, "Remember, it may be your day, but it is still important that you meet your dog's needs and make sure he is comfortable and safe." I don't quite believe that a dog could feel comfortable (or have much dignity left) while wearing a tiny tux or dress. Now I have dressed Molly in a doggy GAP hoodie and it is very fun, Tiller also had her reinbeer antlers, but just look at this poor little pooch below. Precious.

In conclusion, dogs in weddings could be cool and very memorable, but pretty risky. Darn cute if they're small and well-behaved, but I can just imagine the chaos that our rambunctious Lab would cause. Anyone who wants to have an ALL dog bridal party, I'd love to attend. Tiller will be at the Pet Resort playing with her furry friends in the baby pool while we celebrate at the Ranch.