How dog-loving Brits are taking their pets shopping, to restaurants, churches and even to the cinema
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WHILE the country may be going to the dogs, our four- legged friends have never had it so good. Pet lovers are not content with just a walk round the park — they’re taking them shopping, out for dinner and even to the cinema. Even churches and cathedrals now cater for the 13.5million pooches across the country by welcoming paws in pews for regular services as well as special animal ceremonies and “blessings”.
![[Boxer dog sitting in a church pew.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/boxer-dog-layla-church-didsbury-964670444.jpg?strip=all&w=720)
A new survey by the National Churches Trust has shown that 63 per cent of 285 UK churches polled consider themselves dog friendly and Rev Elizabeth Foot said: “I am always surprised when I see people waiting outside with their dogs and I say come and join us.
![[Pug dog wearing sunglasses at the cinema with popcorn and soda.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/dog-watching-movie-cinema-theater-964660723.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
"We even have dog biscuits and if anybody wants their pets to have a blessing I am more than happy to do that. “We have even had dog bridesmaids in weddings.”. Chris Naughton took his dog Layla to church in Didsbury, Manchester, after she battled cancer and had chemotherapy.
Designer Chris said: “I was surprised when I heard about it and was very surprised that so many animals turned up. “Layla loved it and seemed relaxed as she was blessed by the vicar too.”. Cinemas across the country are also holding special screenings where owners can take dogs.
Chain Curzon, which has 16 nationwide, and Picturehouse with 25, show films with slightly brighter lights and duller sounds to help pups adapt. As dogs don’t get a seat they go free and at Curzon’s weekly “Dog Day Afternoon” when free cans of Butcher’s dog food are given out while they watch the latest releases, such as erotic thriller Babygirl.
