When Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese married Jodie Haydon, a very special guest of honour played a critical role in the ceremony. The couple's ten-year-old cavoodle, Toto, took centre stage as the official ring-bearer, escorted down the aisle by the PM's five-year-old niece, Ella.
The Rise of the Four-Legded Wedding Party
While Toto, as the nation's 'First Dog', captured headlines, his participation is part of a much larger trend sweeping weddings. With nearly half of all Australian households owning at least one dog—totalling an estimated 7.4 million pet dogs nationwide—it's no surprise that many couples now consider them essential family members to include on their big day.
Research from the pet-sitting service Pawshake reveals that half of all engaged couples are planning to involve their dog in their wedding. Of those, almost a quarter assign them a formal role such as ring-bearer, maid of honour, or best man. In some places like New York, pets can even serve as an official witness, adding a paw print to the marriage licence alongside a human signature.
Logistics and Canine Chaperones
For couples like Charlotte and Josh Corsbie, who married in Brisbane, having their dog Ruby present meant choosing an outdoor venue. Ruby wore a floral collar matching the bridesmaids and stood prominently during the ceremony. However, the couple faced a common dilemma: what to do with the dog during the noisy reception. They had to find a trusted person, not invited to the wedding, to collect her—a task many find awkward.
This logistical challenge has spawned a new niche industry: professional pet chaperones for weddings. Brooke Trott, a veterinary nurse who runs 'Wedding Tails' in Perth, has overseen pets at more than 250 events. "Our experience with body language is the biggest tool we have," says Trott. "We understand when a dog is getting overwhelmed and can respond in a safe, calm manner." Her services, starting at around $500, include handling, first aid, and ensuring the pet's wellbeing throughout the event.
Ensuring a Pawsitive Experience
Experts advise that including pets requires careful planning. Dr Julia Crawford from the Australian Veterinarian Association states, "If the dog is a well-adjusted member of the family, then it’s a beautiful thing to do." Key considerations include ensuring the animal isn't anxious, is kept cool and fed, and is comfortable with crowds. This often makes dogs the most suitable candidates, while cats, birds, or more exotic pets might find the experience too stressful.
For Abbey Carroll, who hired Brooke Trott to supervise her golden retriever, Oakley, at her Matilda Bay wedding, the inclusion was a joyous success. Oakley wore a tuxedo bandana, carried the rings, and his few excited barks during the ceremony delighted guests. The trend shows no signs of slowing, with pets now also featuring on wedding invitations, cakes, and even having signature cocktails named in their honour.
