Cat and her beloved dog, Bear, shared an unbreakable bond that spanned 17 years. Cat, from Merrimac, Wisconsin, adopted Bear from a local shelter when she was just a child.
Their love grew stronger with time, and Bear became an integral part of Cat’s life.
Unlike her friends, who dreamt of typical weddings, Cat always envisioned Bear being part of her special day—dreaming of him riding in a little red wagon during the ceremony.
However, as their wedding day approached, Bear’s declining health left Cat and her partner, Jimmy, worried that he might not be able to attend.
So, they came up with a heartwarming plan.
“I’ll Be There For You When the Rain Starts to Pour”
Cat never entertained the idea of getting married without Bear. It was crucial to her and Jimmy that Bear, their longtime companion, be present for this life milestone.
Although Jimmy had only met Bear in 2011, he quickly bonded with him and became part of Bear’s inner circle. Jimmy even visited Cat at college, bringing Bear along.
Bear was deeply woven into the fabric of their lives, and the thought of him not being there on their big day was unimaginable.
A Wedding at the Veterinary Hospital
Realizing that Bear might not make it to the original wedding, Cat had a brilliant idea: getting married at the vet hospital where Bear was being treated.
Without hesitation, Jimmy agreed.
The ceremony was held at the Veterinary Emergency Service & Veterinary Specialty Center in Middleton, Wisconsin.
Bear had been hospitalized there for kidney disease, and although he hadn’t been very active, something magical happened that day.
As Cat and Jimmy exchanged vows surrounded by friends and family, Bear’s spirits lifted. He even managed to get out of his wagon and walk around, clearly happy to be part of their special moment.
The day was filled with love, and just two days later, Bear was discharged from the hospital, a small miracle that made everyone’s hearts swell.
Bear Attends the Wedding—Again!
Against the odds, Bear recovered enough to attend Cat and Jimmy’s originally scheduled ceremony a week later. The 17-year-old pup joined his two furry siblings, Bruno and Bentley Fish, in witnessing his “pawrents” say “I do” for the second time.
The staff at VCA Veterinary Specialty Center were thrilled, sharing that Bear had made a remarkable recovery at home and was able to be present for this second celebration.
While the official wedding ceremony was a special day, Cat and Jimmy both agree that the spontaneous ceremony at the vet hospital, surrounded by love and support, will always be the one that holds the most meaning.
It was a testament to their devotion to Bear and their desire to share their happiest moments with him.
As for Bear, he’s doing great, living comfortably with his family, and they cherish every moment they have with him.