Dogs are more than just animals who live with us. They are an important part of our lives and a big part of our families. The nature of that role in our families, however, varies greatly from pet owner to pet owner.  Some dogs are pretty lapdogs, some guard us, some help us with our lives in a variety of ways,  but all dogs are companions.  While I know I spoil my littleWestie , and I know I get strange looks when I let him be carried around inside my jacket on cold days,  I like to think that I still have a firm grip on the pet-owner relationship, and don't treat him as if he is simple a dog-shaped little human.

 

That said, I am only going to say one thing. Let over indulgence be like beauty; in the eye of the beholder. After all, who are we to judge the love another has for his or her pet(s)?

 

Alma Rose Middleton of Santa Barbara, California, can never be accused of judging anyone for lavishing a pet with all of the finest things in life. As a matter of fact, she is doing her best to help bridge the gap between animals and humans. How? Not only does she officiate weddings for people, but for their pets as well. 

 

It all began in early 2008 with the matrimonial union of Ms. Marilyn Bunroe and Mr. Whipple...the bunnies! From that moment on, many more pets have stood at the altar in front of family and friends to be forever joined as one. One her high profile weddings was even filmed for a television series entitled TV Made Me Do It.

 

Typically her marriage ceremonies involving pets are between dogs, but Alma will marry any species. A dog can be united with a cat; a bird might be partnered for life with a fish. Same-sex marriages are no problem for her either.

 

Ms. Middleton is also very flexible as far as choosing a location, planning wedding rituals and so on. From a simple union to an extravagant ceremony, she works with pet owners to fully customize everything according to their wishes. The idea is more about having a fun celebration than anything.

 

Some people may be balking at this whole, seemingly eccentric process, however Alma feels the idea will become more popular in time. Pamela Anderson had a marriage ceremony for her dogs...and you know what happens when celebrities start doing off-the-wall things!  Speaking of which, Joan Rivers treated her pup to a "bark-mitzvah".  (Um, perhaps they aren't the best examples to look to for sane behavior though.)

 

Not only are pet weddings on the list of services Alma Middleton offers, she also does birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, various other pet parties, animal blessings and many more.

 

Hmm,  maybe it is time to find my Westie his soul-mate.  Is there a doggy dating service online?  Of course!  But that is a blog post for another day.