A Guide to Having Your Fur Babies Be a Part of Your Special Day

Having your pets there on your wedding day can bring such joy, and make the day extra special! There are lots of creative ways to involve fur babies, but here are some things to consider before bringing them along.

Check With Your Venue

This is the first thing to do! Unfortunately, not all venues are pet friendly. And some may allow pets only in certain areas. Imagine showing up to your venue, only to find out that your fur babies can’t be there with you. Always check beforehand! If your venue does allow pets, it’s a good idea to take them to the venue beforehand so they can get used to the strange and new setting.

Pick Someone to Be in Charge of Your Pets

You will be so busy on your wedding day, and it will be so much less stress to have someone else taking care of your pets! Ideally, this person would be someone your dogs already know, but it may be beneficial to hire a pet sitter. Avoid assigning this task to someone that is part of the bridal party or already has other obligations on the wedding day. This person can make sure they get fed, have enough water, and are going potty in a designated area. This person can also take your pets away from the crowds if they get too rowdy, and make sure they’re not getting into any of the food!

Consider Your Pet’s Personality

Do they behave well in large crowds? Do they get anxiety if they’re away from you for too long? Has your dog ever gotten aggressive with strangers? All of these are things to consider when deciding whether to bring them to the wedding. There will be lots of new experiences between kids, crowds, and being photographed. So just make sure you pet is ready!

Will your pets be accessorized?

If you have any details for your pets to wear, be sure to bring them with you along with all of your other details. We’ve had couples plan an outfit or accessory for their dog, but realize it’s not there on the wedding day. Don’t let this happen to you! Keep your pets details with all of your important details. And then, whoever is taking care of your pet can get them dressed up for the day!

Taking Photos of Your Pets

If you plan on taking photos with your pets, it’s alway a good idea to let your photographer know beforehand. This will allow them to prep for any details they may want to bring. It can also help your photographer have fun and creative poses prepared. If your pets aren’t able to attend your wedding, you may be able to arrange photos with your pets, either at an engagement session, or a separate bridal session.

Let Your Guests Know

It’s always a good idea to let your guests know ahead of time that your pets will be a part of the wedding. This is a warning to any guests with allergies, and lets your guest plan ahead so they can still enjoy your wedding day!

Embrace the Chaos (and have a plan B)

Just know that there may be some hiccups. Even if your pet is super well behaved, you don’t always know how they’re going to act at a new place, with lots of crowds. If you want your dog to be a part of the ceremony (as a ring bearer, for example), just make sure there’s a backup plan in place. That way the ceremony can still move forward and you can focus on marrying the love of your life!