One of Britain’s oldest cathedrals is raising the woof by welcoming “well-behaved dogs” on short leads inside their historic place of worship.
Carlisle Cathedral already allows visitors with guide, therapy or assistance pets, but from today any dog owner with one animal per person can enter – as long as they “clean up” after themselves.
The Very Rev Jonathan Brewster, dean of the 12th-century minster, said: “Cathedrals are becoming more dog-friendly and – as the cathedral for Cumbria and the Lake District – we wish to welcome all.
“We understand dogs are part of the family too, so please feel free to bring them along on your day out exploring Carlisle.” The canine-friendly initiative is similar to an episode of The Vicar of Dibley.
In the BBC comedy’s 1994 instalment called Animals, Dawn French’s vicar Geraldine Granger invites pets including birds, rabbits, farm animals and snakes to a special Sunday service, with the choir singing Puppy Love. Carlisle’s invitation is not the first time non-assistance dogs have been allowed into cathedrals.
Trials took place last summer at Worcester, Chichester, Canterbury and Durham among others.
Worcester requested that owners ensure their dogs did not “chew, scratch or damage” any of its “valuable and irreplaceable features”.
At Carlisle, pooches are not permitted to join in services, tours or enter the cathedral cafe.
But it is encouraging people to share photos of their visits with their canine companions on social media, with the hashtag #DogsInCathedrals.
The Rev Dr Benjamin Carter, Carlisle’s canon warden, has already brought in his dog Rosie.
The cathedral adds that a “water bowl is provided opposite the main door” for thirsty four-legged guests.
