Dogs with bride & groom on their wedding day
Before I start writing about dogs and pets at weddings, let me make one thing very clear right from the start: I simply love animals. I’m especially a dog lover and therefore totally understand why some couples wish to have their dog or cat at their wedding. After all, they are part of your family and you want them to share your big day.
However, having your beloved pet at your wedding isn’t necessarily a good idea, despite how cute it might look on TV.
First, even a well trained and docile dog might get spooked by a room full of strangers, strong smells (flowers, candles, perfumes, etc), music, etc. Whilst the last thing you want to do is to be chasing after your dog in your wedding dress, equally, you don’t want him/her to be barking throughout the ceremony! Also, you will be nervous on your wedding day and your dog will sense it so be aware that he/she won’t be their usual self.
Second, many venues won’t allow animals. Now, they might tolerate your dog walking down the aisle on a leash but if that’s the case, where will he be be prior to your ceremony and what happens afterwards? The back of a car is simply not an option especially on a hot summer day and it will result in a very stressed and very unhappy pet.
Third, although you might have a vision of your beloved dog looking extra cute in a little bow tie or little dress, the reality is that it’s highly unlikely he/she will actually enjoy the whole experience.
If you still decide to proceed and have your dog at your wedding, then you must assign one person familiar with your pet (such as your dog walker) to look after him/her all day and ideally, to walk him/her down the aisle.
A nervous bridesmaid or usher or over-excited pageboy won’t do; and if possible, have a rehearsal session so that your animal can get familiar with the venue. Also, have a special treat for your dog ready for straight after the ceremony and if possible, have them escorted back to your home straight after to minimize stress and arrange for a separate photo session (at home on a quieter day) if you so wish.
Alternatively, just bring your dog/pet out for a quick photo session outdoor on your wedding day but get them to skip the whole ceremony.
If you decide against bringing your pet, then consider ways to incorporate him/her in your wedding day. A framed picture of your pet on the guest book table, tables named after your favourite animals, a special page on your wedding website, pet-related favours or cake toppers, etc. There are many ways to make your animal feel part of your big day without having them walking down the aisle.
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