by Frances Meupe

Created on: August 25, 2009   Last Updated: August 26, 2009

As much as you love your four-legged friend, are you sure you want him to be the "best man" at your wedding? Are you sure that your brother or an old friend of yours won't be offended if not chosen? Do others understand why you would even consider Fido? Here's why. Fido loves you. He's loyal and you can trust him. He listens to your troubles and he's non judgmental. God forbid, but if the situation arose, Fido would do everything in his power to save your life. He's your best friend. Best friend, best man... is it time to break tradition?

Traditionally the honor of best man is bestowed upon a brother, a long-time friend, or perhaps a relative that you admire and respect. With this honor comes certain duties entrusted to the honoree. The best man is responsible for planning the bachelor's party. After the partying, he helps ensure that the wedding day goes off as smoothly as planned. He assists the groom in getting dressed so that he looks dashing for his bride. He then makes sure that the groom gets to the ceremony site on time. The best man also holds the bride's ring, handing it to the groom at the appropriate time. The best man is also expected to make a toast to the happy couple and perhaps a speech. A groom chooses someone he knows he can trust to fulfill all of the duties of a best man. The best man makes sure that the groom (and bride) have a stress and worry free wedding day.

Traditionally a groom chooses from friends and relatives, his groomsmen. The groomsmen also play an important role in making sure the wedding goes off without a hitch. If the groom, bride and other decision makers of the wedding party agree to Fido, role reversals can be made. Traditional duties of the best man can be delegated among the groomsmen with the exception of holding the bride's ring. Fido can do that.

Make sure that you have enough time before the big day to make sure that Fido is properly trained for his specific duties. Rehearse him as much as required to ensure a greater probability of perfection. Of course he must dress for the occasion. If he is to be classy he must have tux and tails. A custom tailored outfit will probably provide a better fit than off the rack. After a visit to the groomers and dressed in his new outfit, he too will be ready for the big day.

Learn more about this author, Frances Meupe.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.