A company called Total Pet Services in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, is offering wedding couples the chance to share their big day with their beloved pets...

There are a growing number of couples who plan their celebrations to include animals in their big day and Total Pet Services make sure that prodceedings go without a hitch.

Director of Total Pet Services Steph Drake said: “Simply asking a friend or relative to turn up on the day with your dog can be a recipe for disaster.

“Even the best behaved dogs can get overwhelmed by the occasion, emotions are running high and dogs can pick up on this, there are often no-go areas for dogs at the venue and guests are often too busy enjoying themselves to pay close attention to the dog.

“And who really wants to pick up poo in their best outfit!”

The bespoke venture, launched on Monday, December 1 – just in time for all those Christmas and New Year proposals – combines many years of experience working with dogs and studying dog behaviour with first-hand of knowledge of wedding planning.

Owner of Total Pet Service Hitchin franchise Bekki Wilkins, who spent six years as a wedding and event planner, said: “A lot goes on behind the scenes to make sure your wedding day runs smoothly.

“It’s all about the timings and logistics of what needs to happen when, having the flexibility to change things at the last minute if necessary and, really importantly, carry out the proper risk assessments to make sure that everyone is safe.”

Every wedding day is unique so Total Pet Services spend time getting to know the dog and assessing the dog’s temperament to ensure they will be able to cope with what’s expected of them before devising a package to suit the occasion.

Steph explained: “Every service we offer puts the welfare of the pet first, and our wedding service is no exception.

“If we feel a dog really won’t cope with a couple’s expectations, then we’ll be honest and say so. But as long as your dog is happy, the sky’s the limit in terms of what we can arrange for you.”

In addition to the day itself, Total Pet Services also advise on pet care for the honeymoon, be it with one of their own carefully selected carers or offer advice on finding appropriate care.

For further information visit www.weddingsbytotalpets.co.uk or call Steph on 07721 078271.