Saturday, November 8, 2008

Preliminary Report: 87 Couples Tie Knot

It is now 2:40 p.m., and the I Do, Doggone It! ceremony ended barely more than an hour ago, so this is a preliminary report. A more detailed report--with video and photos--will be added by Monday morning.

Hundreds of people and their canine companions braved bone-chilling cold weather today to make I Do, Doggone It! a major success.

While the 87 dog couples fell short of the Guinness World Record (178) in the unusual category, it was undoubtedly one of the largest doggie conjugal gatherings in history.

Danny Girton Jr., the Guinness World Record adjudicator who oversaw the event, said that he would review GWR files to see where the event's 87-couple status ranks. In addition, with numerous same-sex couples among those who were "married" on Saturday, there's a chance that the event established a new standard in that regard.

Though Guinness World Records does not yet have a category for same-sex dog weddings, Downtown Oak Park officials may petition the organization for consideration in that category, Girton confirmed. (See the video below)




As part of the registration process, owners indicated the gender of dogs. A DTOP tally breaking down the number of same-sex couplings will be conducted as soon as possible.

The event supported the Animal Care League of Oak Park, a shelter for cats and dogs. A final fundraising total will be provided as soon as possible.

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