Fiona Duff: Meet Rocky, the lord of the rings

Something happens when you get a dog. I know people who are vaguely sensible but start to go a bit doolally when they become owners of a pooch. I include myself in that group.

Rocky is in training to be a ring-bearer

I talk to Daniel the Spaniel when no one else is around; we have little games that we play and sometimes I think he also tries to communicate with me.

So when my friend Gaynor got the sweetest, fluffiest dog you could imagine and called it Rocky I knew she had joined the club.

Now Gaynor and her husband own a wonderful jewellery shop called Macintyres of Edinburgh. You may not have heard of it as it’s like a club, but if you are looking for quality rocks, watches or just a string of pearls heading to Frederick Street is the best advice I can give.

This weekend in particular would be a good idea to visit, especially if you are planning to get married in the foreseeable future (probably best if you are in a stable loving relationship to start with – two invaluable pieces of advice in one column, that’s called getting your money’s worth).

That’s because their wedding event will be in full swing with models, humanist celebrants and ten per cent off whatever you purchase.

Of course, now that Gaynor as her little four-legged friend there will be some added extras this year. Rocky is currently being trained to be a ring bearer (pictured) and a lady called Trish will also be attending. Trish runs a company called Woofy Weddings and it’s such a simple idea that I am surprised that I didn’t think of it earlier.

Basically if you absolutely have to have your beloved dog at the nuptials she’ll act as its plus one.

Rover, Rex or whatever it is called, shall arrive groomed and gorgeous at the wedding venue. She’ll make sure it is fed and watered as well as taking it for timely walks so no embarrassing extra costs at the end of the day.

And if that doesn’t prove my earlier point, then I can’t think of what else does.