Weddings are a year-round celebration, but the summer sees a surge in nuptials. While you prepare to say “I do” to your betrothed, don’t forget your four-legged friend, who loves you just as much.
Shannon Sardella Arnold is the founder of Oh To Be A Dog & Oh To Be A Dog At Your Wedding, a company that offers pet care to dogs at weddings and photoshoots. The California native and animal lover, who now lives in Manhattan with her wife, started her business as a dog walking and pet sitting service back in 2010 in Pasadena, CA. The company grew to a second location in the San Fernando Valley recently and Arnold launched her Manhattan location this year.
How did you come up with this concept?
After a few of my walking and sitting clients asked me to help them out with having their dog at their wedding. The first couple asked me to pick their dog up at their home and bring her to the hotel. I stayed with her in the hotel room with the bride and her friends until it was time. The dog got walked down the aisle with someone and I was asked to drop her off at her boarding facility so they could go on their honeymoon. After a few of these, me being the entrepreneur I am, I thought I should offer this as a division of my business.
What services do you provide?
For Oh To Be A Dog At Your Wedding we provide day-of care. We can pick up and drop off your pet and we come armed with everything your dog will need from natural grain-free treats, water/food bowls and squeaky toys for photos to wipes, a brush and poop bags. We also provide help with engagement and/or proposal photos. We provide GPS tracked walks, runs and pet sitting through Oh To Be A Dog.
Does Oh To Be A Dog At Your Wedding extend to other pets as well?
I have never been asked to care for another type of pet, but, why not? I think I would draw the line at certain reptiles or rodents. Although, I am sure someone on my staff would not mind.
Do you have different packages and price points?
We really try and customize a package for the needs of the day. Some dogs can handle more than others in terms of crowds, being outside in heat, and other factors. It can be anywhere from $300 to $1,200 depending on the needs of the couple.
Why should pet parents look into this?
It’s a fun and stress free way to have your dog at one of the most important days in your life. Dogs are our family and more and more we want them to be with us as we experience life. We see dogs traveling more and people making life plans that include their dog. Weddings can be stressful for everyone involved, including family. Having someone dedicated to your pet, that is not a family member, is a sure-fire way to eliminate stress and allow everyone to have fun. Also, as professional pet care providers we know what dogs need in order to be safe and healthy.
For more information, call 818-231-9728, email shannon@ohtobeadog.com or visit www.ohtobeadogatyourwedding.com.
