Pet-loving couples enlist Spot to help them tie the knot

CHICAGO — When Jane McBride walks down the aisle dressed in white in September, a furry ring bearer named Mufasa will stand next to the groom.

McBride, an assistant attorney general in Springfield, Ill., couldn't imagine her big day without the 85-pound Akita-shepherd mix bearing witness, she said. She only worries the dog might tear her gown when the minister instructs the groom to kiss the bride.

"Anytime John and I embrace, Mufasa thinks he should jump in there with us," McBride said. "He thinks it's a big pack hug and he gets all involved."

People without pets — and even some who own them — may find it strange to include pets in a wedding. But the number of dogs participating in human nuptials are on the rise, if sales of miniature sequined wedding gowns, frilly bridesmaid dresses and tiny, black tuxedos are any indication.

The attire has been flying off the shelves at pet boutiques this year, shop owners say.

Jennifer Schoonmaker, owner of Cody and Carl's Blvd., a pet boutique, said she has sold two white gowns (with veil) since she put a canine nuptial display in her store window in May.

Every once in a while, the attire isn't for human nuptials, she said. A few weeks ago, a couple browsed gowns and tuxes for an upcoming wedding between two pets for which they had rented a reception hall and sent out formal invitations.

While boutiques and wedding planners have adjusted to the demand for pets in weddings, many venues lag behind the times. Most churches and hotels — even many parks and arboretums — bar animals or impose numerous restrictions, wedding planners said.

To avoid the hassle, McBride chose to hold her September wedding at a restaurant. About 50 guests have been invited to the celebration.

Mufasa, named after a character in "The Lion King," will wear a multicolored bow tie that can hold the rings. Party favors will include biscuits or some other animal-friendly treats that humans and dogs can eat, McBride said.

She would never consider leaving Mufasa at home on her wedding day. "Mufasa would just expect to be there," McBride said. "He's our boy."