By Saba Poonawala*
It is true that a life with dogs is far more beautiful than one without them! Coming to personal life decisions, I always wanted to get married to someone who understood my love for animals and would be okay with my dogs being a part of his life. I’m more than grateful to have found a partner who does that. Zeeshan, my husband, is a carpet appraiser, collector and retailer, but he now has a newfound interest in dogs as well. Well, that’s what dogs do, right? They change you and fill you up with more love than you have ever felt! Â
When we got married, I wanted my dogs to be a part of the wedding too! I remember the days leading up to my wedding very fondly. Both my dogs – Diego, my 10 year old Labrador Retriever and Theodore, my 2 year old Labrador Retriever – had to be a part of our wedding. I wanted memorable pictures with both of them. Of course, they had to be the ‘Best Man’ and the ‘Dog of Honour’. So as the day one of function began, my preparation with them also began. I took them to a pet spa, got them bathed, got their teeth cleaned, and got their nails clipped and filed too! Now they were looking no less than celebs! Â
Once they got home, it was time to look dapper! Both boys were made to get into their custom made tuxedos! Yes, each of them had a tuxedo made.
Next up was to do the set up for the photo shoot! I wanted them to be comfortable so I did the shoot in my garden itself. I got them slates with wordings to hold as well as Bandanas with ‘Best Dog’ and ‘Dog of Honour’ painted on them. For a photo shoot like this, it’s important to have a photographer who loves animals too as it’s time consuming. And I’m glad that both my photographers were just like that. My then fiance (now husband) and I got ready too and got into the groove! With Theo and Diego wearing their tuxedos, bandanas, and slates – they gathered all eyes! They were the stars of the wedding, instead of me and my husband! Â
The best part was my dog Theodore walking me down the aisle. There was no better feeling!
They proved their titles to the very last minute. It was just such a beautiful experience to see them be a part of the most important day of our lives. More so, it was amazing to see how much they enjoyed it. I could see it in their eyes! Â
You know they say that dogs smile too – Yes, they do! And I saw it! Â
A dog is man’s best friend, and it is true to every word when one says dogs over diamonds! Â
My boys have my heart and soul forever!
* Author is a celebrity hair and makeup artist and an educator. Her love for dogs inspired her to become a canine behavourist and trainer as well.