Cider, is not a VIP

You cannot fake the look of a pissed-off bride.

Yes, her best friend rang on the wedding day to say she could not look after Cider, her 10-month-old collie.

Sarah, the bride, had no one else to call as they were all guests at her wedding. 

Matt, the groom, was not answering his phone, and neither was the best man.

Sarah’s hairdresser was still trying to finish her hair, and Carly, the photographer, was working on the bridal preparation shots. Both were trying to think of people who could help out last minute. People who would be strangers to a young, excitable dog and have access to the family home.

Carly rang me at 11.40 am and asked if I was busy. Luckily, I had walked my dogs and didn't have any clients. I was happy to pupsit Cider but couldn't arrive after the bride left with her dad in the bridal car.

Sarah was beside herself with worry as she had to leave her dog with a stranger, a key under the door mat and no idea how the added expense of a dog sitter would push her over the budget and bank balance.

I asked to speak to Sarah on Carly’s phone.

"Sarah, I’ve got this. Cider will be my priority until you are home at 11 pm. My old Pebbles was a collie that I rescued, and she loved to play ball games and hide-n-seek.

I have an up-to-date DBS police check, insured, and dog sit as a profession. Carly knows me as I have looked after their family dog a few times, even when he was poorly. My spaniel/whippet is a year old, so I am used to bouncy, energetic pups. Let me know where Cider's food is, and I will sort the rest."

Sarah's biggest regret was relying on a friend to dogsit. There was no accountability or real commitment. She also didn't know that dogs could even attend weddings.

Carly told me where the wedding was and confirmed that the venue was dog-friendly. As a complete surprise, I took Cider to the wedding and arrived in time for the photos. That joyous smile was priceless.

I had given Cider a quick run around the local park, and thankfully, there were no puddles or delicious smells to roll in. I gave her a brush to glam her up. My work bag is always in the car and includes a sweet-smelling spritz, brush and a white lead.

I have the best job in the world as a Wedding Dog Chaperone when I can make such a massive difference to a family's story. Your pet is a family member and should be part of every milestone, just like children are.

Oh, and the fee? I didn't ask. At 11 pm, an exhausted bride and groom got home, and they handed me a large bag of goodies, including a bottle of Bolly! Their regular account of the day a friend abandoned Cider, a story they share amongst friends, work colleagues, and strangers, was also my best referral and priceless, and keeps on giving.

If you hear of someone getting engaged or married, tell them that dogs can be part of a wedding ceremony, and The Wedding Dog Mother will be happy to chaperone.