A kennel owner is being inundated with requests for a “doggie daycare” service from mutt-mad brides and grooms who want their pampered pooches to be included in their big day.
Ken Reilly of A1 Boarding Kennels in Johnstown, Navan, Co Meath, said there has been a surge in canines at ceremonies.
He added: “When people are ringing up to book their wedding venue, they are asking for someone who is able to mind the dogs.
“And when they talk to us, they realise we are able to provide that service and able to get the dogs ready, bring them to the wedding for photos, take them back and then they stay with us for the duration of the honeymoon.
“For some people, their dogs are more important than their actual family members.
“One woman actually said to me after their dog got mud on the dress, it doesn’t matter Ken that paw print will be there forever.”
Karen Ball and Shirley Flood, who wed in Lough Rynn Castle last month, said they couldn’t imagine getting hitched without their “little girl”, a Maltese called Bella.
Karen added: “She came outside after the ceremony for photos and was able to hang out with us until we were called for
our meal.
“She’s our baby and I couldn’t imagine not having her part of our day.”
