Can Dogs Witness Weddings In Colorado?

In Colorado, it is possible to include your dog in your wedding in more ways than one. The self-solemnizing marriage law in Colorado means that couples can get married without a third-party officiant or witness. As a result, your dog can be your witness and sign your marriage license with a paw print. While it may not be a common occurrence, it is a growing trend, especially after a viral TikTok video. If you're looking to include your furry friend in your wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as checking with the county clerk and ensuring your venue is pet-friendly.

The legality of a dog's signature on a marriage license in Colorado

In Colorado, couples can legally include their dogs in the signing of their marriage license. This unique practice is due to the state's self-solemnizing marriage law, which allows couples to officiate their own weddings without an officiating party.

The Legal Requirements

To include your dog in the signing of your marriage license in Colorado, you must first obtain a marriage license from your local county clerk's office. The license costs $30, and you must return it within 35 days of your wedding. There is no waiting period to pick up the license, meaning you can get married on the same day.

When filling out the license, you can leave the witness lines blank or have your dog "sign" with their paw print. This can be done by gently pressing their paw onto an ink pad and then transferring the print onto the license. It is important to note that this practice may not be allowed in all counties, so it is advisable to check with your local county clerk before proceeding.

Other Ways to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

If you are unable or unwilling to have your dog sign your marriage license, there are other ways to include them in your special day. Some couples choose to have their dog accompany them down the aisle or serve as the ring bearer. You can also assign flower duties to your dog by attaching a basket of flower petals to their collar.

Considerations

While having your dog sign your marriage license can be a fun and unique way to involve them in your wedding, some people raise concerns about the potential for legal complications down the line. It is important to weigh these considerations before deciding to include your dog in this manner.

In conclusion, while the self-solemnizing marriage law in Colorado allows for the inclusion of a dog's signature on a marriage license, it is essential to be aware of local regulations and the potential for future legal complications.

How to prepare your dog to sign the marriage license

In Colorado, you can include your dog in your wedding celebration by having them "sign" your marriage license with their paw print. Here is a guide on how to prepare your dog for this unique and memorable experience:

Check Local Laws and Venue Rules:

Before planning to include your dog as a witness, verify the local laws and venue rules. While Colorado's self-solemnizing marriage law allows couples to get married without an officiant or witness signatures, some municipalities and venues may have different rules. Confirm with your county clerk's office and wedding venue to ensure that having your dog as a witness is permitted.

Choose the Right Ink:

Select a water-based, non-toxic ink pad in a color that complements your wedding theme or simply choose a classic black. "Pet-friendly" ink pads are readily available online and ensure your dog's safety while leaving a stylish mark on your marriage license.

Prepare Your Dog:

It is important to make sure your dog is comfortable with the process. Use positive reinforcement by rewarding your dog with treats and affection when they interact with the ink pad. Practice by gently pressing their paw onto the ink pad and then onto a piece of paper. This will help them get familiar with the process and ensure they remain calm during the ceremony.

Timing is Crucial:

Choose a calm and relaxed moment for the "signing" process. Take your dog for a walk or play with them before the ceremony to ensure they are in a cooperative mood. A tired dog is more likely to be relaxed and less agitated.

Have an Assistant:

Enlist the help of a trusted friend or family member to assist you during the "signing" process. They can help hold your dog or manage the ink pad while you guide your dog's paw onto the marriage license.

Step-by-Step "Signing" Process:

First, obtain and complete the necessary paperwork for your marriage license from the appropriate county office. Prepare the ink pad on a stable, flat surface covered with a disposable sheet to prevent any mess. Gently press your dog's paw onto the ink pad, ensuring the ink covers the paw pad evenly without causing discomfort. Then, carefully guide their paw onto the marriage license in a designated spot, such as the bottom margin. Allow the ink to dry, and consider applying a clear sealant to protect the paw print and prevent smudging.

Document the Moment:

Capture this unique and adorable moment by taking photos or videos of your dog's "signing" ceremony. These memories will be cherished for years to come and can be shared with family and friends.

Remember to embrace the whimsy and charm of including your furry friend in your special day. While your dog's "signature" may not carry legal significance, it adds a creative and heartwarming touch to your celebration of love.

The process of obtaining a marriage license with a dog's signature

The Process of Obtaining a Marriage License with a Dog's "Signature"

In Colorado, couples can include their furry friends in their wedding celebrations by having their dog "sign" the marriage license with their paw print. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a marriage license with a dog's "signature":

Step 1: Understand the Legal Requirements

Colorado's self-solemnizing marriage law allows couples to get married without an officiant or witness. This flexibility means that your dog can act as your witness and "sign" the marriage license. However, it's important to note that some municipalities in Colorado may have different rules, so always check with your local county clerk's office.

Step 2: Obtain the Marriage License

To begin the process, you must first apply for a marriage license from your local county clerk's office. In Colorado, the license costs $30, and there is no waiting period, meaning you can get married on the same day! Fill out the required sections, leaving the witness lines blank, as your dog's paw print will serve as the signature.

Step 3: Prepare Your Dog

Before the big day, it's essential to prepare your dog for the "signing" process. Use positive reinforcement to familiarise your dog with the ink pad and the sensation of having its paw touched. Reward your dog with treats and affection during this training process. You can also conduct practice sessions with an ink pad and a piece of paper to make your dog comfortable with the process.

Step 4: Choose the Right Moment

On the day of the wedding, choose a calm and relaxed moment for the "signing." Take your dog for a walk or play with them before the ceremony to ensure they are in a cooperative mood.

Step 5: The "Signing" Ceremony

Now it's time for your dog to make their mark! Place the ink pad on a stable, flat surface covered with a disposable sheet to prevent any mess. Gently press your dog's paw onto the ink pad, ensuring the ink covers the paw pad evenly without causing any discomfort. Then, carefully guide their paw onto the marriage license. You can choose a designated spot, such as the bottom margin, for their "signature."

Step 6: Finalise the License

Allow the ink to dry on the marriage license, which should only take a few minutes. Once dry, you can apply a clear sealant to protect the paw print and prevent smudging. Don't forget to document this special moment with photos or videos!

Step 7: Return the License

After your wedding, remember to return the signed marriage license to the county clerk's office within 35 days. Congratulations, you are now legally married with your furry friend as your official witness!

Other ways to include your dog in your wedding

In Colorado, your dog can be more than just a part of your wedding—they can be your witness and sign your marriage license with their paw print. But what if you're not in Colorado, or your venue doesn't allow dogs? Here are some other ways to include your furry friend in your special day:

Involve Them in the Ceremony

If your venue allows dogs, you can have your pup accompany you down the aisle, act as a ring bearer, or even be your maid of honour. You can dress them up for the occasion with a bow tie, a floral collar, or a tutu. If you're feeling creative, you could even have them walk down the aisle with your bridesmaids or stand with the groomsmen.

Take Photos with Them

If your dog can't be there on the big day, consider including them in your engagement or bridal shoot. You can also take photos with them while you're getting ready or have them join you for your couple portraits. You could even attach a GoPro to your dog to capture unique footage during the ceremony.

Incorporate Them into Your Attire

You can embroider your veil or customise your pocket square with a depiction of your furry friend. This way, they're with you throughout the entire ceremony.

Include Them in Your Stationery

Use your dog as inspiration for your wedding invitations, escort cards, or save-the-dates. You can have an illustration of them drawn up or use their photo. You could even have a replica of your dog made as your wedding cake topper.

Offer Dog-Themed Favours

Send your guests home with "doggie bags" and cookies shaped like your dog. You can also offer favours that give back to animal rescue programs or the ASPCA.

Remember, when including your dog in your wedding, always consider their personality and comfort. Make sure they're allowed in your venue, and notify your vendors so they can help you create a pet-friendly environment.

The legality of dog signatures in other states

In Colorado, couples can legally include their pets as witnesses to their weddings. This is due to the state's self-solemnizing marriage law, which means couples can get married without a third-party officiant or witness. This law also applies in 22 other states and Washington, D.C.

In these locations, a dog, cat, bird, rabbit, or even a hamster can "sign" a marriage certificate with their paw print. However, it's important to note that some municipalities within these states may have different rules, so it's crucial to check with the local county clerk's office before making any plans.

For those outside of these 23 states and Washington, D.C., there are still options to include pets in the wedding ceremony. Six states, including California, Iowa, and New York, only require one witness, leaving room for a pet to join in as a secondary witness.

Additionally, seven states and Washington, D.C., don't require officiants, allowing animals to take on this role unofficially.

• Location: Ensure that the wedding venue allows pets and is pet-friendly.
• Ink Pad: Bring a pet-friendly ink pad to capture your pet's paw print.
• Local Requirements: Check with the county clerk or relevant authorities to understand any specific requirements or restrictions.
• Practice: Prepare your pet for the process with positive reinforcement and practice sessions.
• Assistance: Have someone assist you during the "signing" process to help hold your pet or with the ink pad.
• Cleanliness: Bathe and groom your pet before the wedding, ensuring they are healthy and well-behaved.
• Documentation: Capture photos or videos of your pet's "signing" ceremony to cherish this memorable moment.

While the legality of dog signatures varies across the US, it's clear that many couples are eager to find creative ways to include their furry friends in their special day.

Frequently asked questions