Can You Legally Marry Your Pet in the UK?

While stories of animal-human marriages appear in mythology and folklore, such as the Chinese tale "The Goddess of the Silkworm" where a woman marries a horse, marrying a pet is not legally recognised in the UK. While there’s a fascinating history of such unions in myth, the concept has no legal foundation in British law.

Non-Legal Ceremonies and Public Interest

Some individuals have held non-legally binding ceremonies to symbolically marry their pets. For instance, a British woman famously “married” her dog and even created the website MarryYourPet.com to share her experience. However, these ceremonies are purely symbolic and carry no legal significance.

Pet Nuptial Agreements

For those concerned about their pets' future in the case of separation from a partner, a pet nuptial agreement could be an option. While not legally binding, a pet nuptial agreement is a practical document outlining how a pet will be cared for if the relationship ends, helping to set expectations and avoid disputes. Though not enforceable, courts may consider these agreements when determining a fair outcome.

Bottom Line

In the UK, marriage is reserved for human couples, and no legal provisions exist for marrying a pet. Symbolic ceremonies may be meaningful for some, but these arrangements have no legal bearing. For couples looking to plan for their pet’s future, a pet nuptial agreement can help set clear expectations for pet care if the relationship ends.