Attempt At Largest Dog Wedding Raises Money, Doesn't Break Record

VILLA PARK, IL — An attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest dog wedding ceremony fell short Saturday, but organizers said the event was still a successful showing of puppy love in their eyes.

The wedding took place in Lions Park and aimed to break the previous record held by a community in Littleton, Colorado. Overall, Villa Park registered 80 dog pairs while the 2007 record registered 89 happy, howling couples.

The event was held to raise awareness for canine adoption through the annual "Paws & Claws in the Park" festival. The main sponsor was the Villa Park Community F.U.N. Commission, which organized dog treat vendors and other dog-related activities to benefit local animal rescue organizations.

Any dog was open to register, organizers said. Single pups were put through a "Doggy Speed Dating" round to match couples based on size and temperament. Owners were then allowed to walk their dogs down a makeshift aisle to an officiant at the other end.

All dog marriages were non-binding, a spokesperson made sure to tell participants.

Villa Park Village President Nick Cuzzone presided over the wedding, according to the Daily Herald, and closed the ceremony by saying "You may now bark your vows."

Event organizer Leslie Allison-Seei said proceeds from registration fees and activities raised about $4,000 which will be split among 10 animal rescue organizations.