Dog gets elaborate church blessing

No dog could have a better start to life. For in what must be the most lavish ceremony of its kind, Sheridan, the Shih Tzu puppy, was 'christened' in church, wearing a specially made silk shawl as his six tearful godparents looked on. The dog was chauffeur-driven to church in a Jaguar and, after the ceremony, taken to a hotel where his health was toasted by 75 guests drinking pink champagne. For his part, Sheridan ate melon as starter followed by butterfly chicken and a sherry trifle to finish. An official photographer recorded the event for posterity.

The extravagant bash, which cost about £1,000, is likely to be met in equal measure with both howls of derision (from traditionalists) and cries of joy (from dog lovers). Sheridan's owner Russell Smith, a former wedding planner turned funeral director, wanted the church blessing and naming ceremony to reflect his devotion to his new dog. No expense was subsequently spared. "It cost me more than £1,000 but it was worth every penny," said Mr Smith, 49. "I rented a chauffeur driven, cream Jaguar. We decked the church in flowers. Sheridan wore a silk shawl I had specially made for him.



"It was a beautiful cold, clear morning. the bells were ringing in the church, which was absolutely full. I cried my heart out. It was a very emotional service. The vicar, who is a big dog lover and has bearded collies of his own, was fantastic." While vicars have been known to stage unusual blessing ceremonies for pets, farm equipment and even laptop computers, Sheridan's ceremony is believed to be among the most lavish ever staged for a single dog. Mr Smith picked three godmothers and three godfathers to watch over the puppy, which had enjoyed a special makeover the day so he could look his best. Mr Smith's other dog Smartie, another Shih Tzu aged 14, was at his side at the church in the village of Lazonby in Cumbria.

The local vicar, the Reverend David Fowler, blessed the dog in church but refused to actually christen the animal there. Instead the dog, its owner, vicar and guests retreated to a local hotel where the vicar placed his hands on the dog's head and declared the puppy be called Sheridan Smith. "I just wanted him officially mine," said Mr Smith. "When we got back to the hotel, Sheridan started with melon while Smartie tucked into leek and potato soup. Sheridan likes his food."