Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Fiala.
Hi Amy, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It was 2012, I was planning my wedding, and in between venue tours, guest lists, and late-night Pinterest scrolling, one thing became crystal clear: I couldn’t imagine saying “I do” without my fur kids there. At first, I hadn’t even thought about it. Planning a wedding is a whirlwind—flowers, themes, seating charts, oh my gosh – all the things! (And yes, the thought of eloping crossed my mind more than once.) Then one spring afternoon, my sweet girl Kya strolled into the room. She looked at me with those big brown eyes that had seen me through some of the hardest chapters of my life, and I thought: “What about you? You have to be there.”
From that moment, there was no turning back. My wedding vision changed. The venue choices were instantly cut in half because dogs weren’t allowed at many places. We said our vows on the beach, waves crashing behind us, and Kya and Mr. BiG right there beside me. Having her there wasn’t just special—it was everything.
When the day was done and the honeymoon haze faded, I went back to managing my dog walking business, Game Time Dog Services when a light bulb went off: What if other couples wanted their pets by their side too—but didn’t know how to make it happen?
That’s when the idea for a Wedding Day Pet Attendant was born.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of caring for so many couples’ beloved pets on their wedding day. Each story has been unique, but the love—the joy—it’s always the same. One of my favorite memories was in 2019, when I cared for Meatloaf, the sweet rescue pup of X-Ambassadors keyboardist Casey Harris and his wife Liv. Their wedding was electric—so full of love—and when Meatloaf trotted down the aisle, the entire crowd melted into a chorus of “Awwwww!” It was pure joy, and it reminded me exactly why I do what I do.
What began as a heartfelt addition in 2013 has now grown into something bigger than I ever dreamed. In 2024, I officially launched A Wedding Tail, a business dedicated solely to making sure your furry family members can be a part of your day—where they belong.
I was born and live in Austin and have roots in San Antonio, and Dallas. Today, my team and I are honored to serve couples all across the state of Texas—whether you’re getting married under twinkling Hill Country skies, in the heart of Houston, or at a Dallas ballroom.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not—it has been anything but smooth. Building a small business from the ground up is not for the faint of heart. I’ve poured blood, sweat, and tears into this business. There were moments when carrying everything—marketing, payroll, bookkeeping, scheduling, staff management, client relationships, social media, insurance, and more—was completely overwhelming. I questioned whether I should sell or simply walk away … but I’m too stubborn and too passionate for what I do to give up.
One of the biggest challenges—and ultimately the greatest turning point—was finding the right team. That has been a true game-changer. I could not do what I do alone. Finding people who are professional, deeply passionate about dogs, genuinely care for people, and understand dog body language and mindset took time and patience. I prayed, manifested—whatever you want to call it—but I am endlessly grateful for the team I have today. Truly, teamwork makes the dream work.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At the heart of everything we do is thoughtful, professional pet care—whether that’s supporting busy pet parents or helping couples include their beloved pets in life’s most meaningful moments.
Game Time Dog Services specializes in mid-day dog walking for pet owners who want to ensure their dogs receive consistent exercise, mental stimulation, and positive social interaction while they’re away. Our goal is to support both the dog and the owner, creating healthier, happier routines for everyone involved.
A Wedding Tail is where our work becomes truly unique. We are professional wedding pet concierges and attendants, helping couples include their fur babies in their wedding day in a way that best suits the celebration—and the individual personality and comfort level of each pet. No two weddings (or dogs) are alike, and every service is fully customized.
Our wedding pet services include:
A personalized phone consultation
Meet-and-greet (in person or via Google Meet)
A trained, experienced dog handler knowledgeable in dog body language and behavior
Hands-on management to prevent jumping, protect wedding attire (yes, lint rollers included!), and keep pets calm and comfortable
Potty breaks and walks to burn off excited energy
Water, treats, and meals when approved by the owner
Walking your pet down the aisle or coaching a chosen handler
Photographer assistance to help capture those perfect pet-inclusive moments
Care during cocktail hour if your pet is visiting with guests
Thoughtful advocacy for your dog’s well-being—we actively intervene if a situation becomes overwhelming or unsafe. Being able to read subtle cues and act quickly has prevented stressful moments and potential incidents more than once.
Text updates with photos once services are complete
Optional upgrades include:
Pet taxi services
Brushing and body spray
Cardboard cutouts
Wedding attire (floral collars, tuxedos, leashes)
End-of-evening pet sitting visits for potty breaks, dinner, and comfort
Curated recommendations for pet-friendly wedding attire and products
What truly sets us apart is experience and heart. I was once a bride who had my own dogs at my wedding, so I understand firsthand how meaningful—and emotional—it is to include them. We’ve been doing this for over a decade, making us one of the original wedding pet attendant services in Texas. Every couple receives a fully customized experience rooted in safety, professionalism, and love. And while we’re proud of our services, our reviews say it best.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
The industry is absolutely growing—I come across new competitors all the time. At the same time, I still meet people who have never even heard of the idea of including pets in a wedding, which I love. It gives me the opportunity to share what we do. Our pets are our fur kids; they’re family.
While I don’t know if wedding pet attendant services will ever become fully mainstream, I do know this: it’s not a trend that’s going anywhere. As long as pets remain an important part of our families, there will be couples who want them thoughtfully, safely, and lovingly included in their biggest moments.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aweddingtail.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aweddingtail/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086696434753
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshank/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/game-time-dog-services-austin-2
Image Credits
Elyse Marie Photography, @annahailephoto, Diana Brewer | @dianabrewerphoto, Kelsey & Talon | Texas Film & Digital Photographer, @lauramariafilms
