Weddings are a celebration of love and commitment, and for many couples, sharing this special day with their beloved dog, cat, horse, or any pet is a must. Including your furry friend can add an extra layer of joy and create unforgettable memories. Here are some thoughtful tips to ensure your dog is part of the festivities without a hitch.
Plan Ahead
Incorporating your dog in your wedding requires careful planning. First and foremost, make sure that the venue is pet-friendly and that your dog’s needs are catered for throughout the day. Not all venues are pet friendly. Always get their OK before assuming!
The venue may require rabies certificate, or limit the locations that the doggo can go. Make sure to get all of these details and plan accordingly.
Make sure to back a doggie bag. Literally. Bring their favorite bowl, food, extra snacks, toys, even their own dog bed. Weddings are stressful for humans. Imagine what the doggie may feel! It can be very overstimulating, so make sure you have all of their potential needs ready.
Please don’t forget poop bags! When they go potty you have to pick it up! The venue isn’t a dog park and likely won’t have the poop bags laying around!
Designate a Handler
I hear a lot “my cousin will be bring my doggo”. Or “after pictures my brother will take him home”. OK cool, BUT…hear me out….do you really want the important people in your life traveling to tend to the doggo? Do you want brother to miss the reception or part of it because he is going to the house?
It is SO nice that they offered, but even if your wedding is in Lafayette Indiana and you live in town, it can still be 30+ minutes of the event they will miss!
Set budget aside to hire a handler! A professional company, like Walk Your Doggo, can go pick your love up, feed them, walk them, and bring the doggo over at the right time. After pictures and before doggo gets too overwhelmed, they can bring your furry bestie back home. It is worthwhile to spend the money to have a professional caretaker to be in charge on your wedding day!
Dress Them Up
Your dog can look the part with some adorable wedding attire. From bow ties to floral crowns, there are endless options to make your pup picture-perfect. Some popular choices include:
- Bow Ties and Bandanas: Subtle yet stylish, these accessories can match your wedding colors and theme.
- Floral Collars: A beautiful and natural option that can complement the bride’s bouquet.
- Custom Outfits: For a more formal look, consider a tailored suit or dress made specifically for your dog.
Some opt to just do cute leashes. Check Amazon, there’s tons of options!
Include Them in the Ceremony
Having your dog participate in the ceremony can be a heartwarming experience. Depending on their training and temperament, you can involve them in various roles, such as:
- Ring Bearer: Secure the rings to their collar or a small pillow they can carry down the aisle.
- Flower Dog: Attach a small basket of petals to their harness for a charming flower girl alternative.
- Processional Companion: Have them walk down the aisle with the bride, groom, or a member of the bridal party.
This again though is where a professional company, like Walk Your Doggo can come in clutch!
Story time – I had our male Shiba Inu, Guillermo, walk me down the aisle. We have pictures of him lifting his leg and peeing on the arch during the ceremony. It made for a good laugh and luckily our wedding was outside so it wasn’t a big deal! But if you are doing an indoor reception, the venue may not love your doggo pee-peeing on things!
So a good caretaker company can walk your dog before and get all the sniffs and potty breaks out! They can stay outside up until ceremony time and make sure that your doggie’s bladder is nice and empty!
Capture the Moments
Including your dog in your wedding photos is essential for capturing the full scope of your special day. Work with your photographer to plan some unique and candid shots. But remember, they are dogs! Don’t expect them to sit and smile because…they are dogs! I always say “let’s just let your dog, dog!” Candid moments with your love are the best.
Some photo ideas, however, include:
- Getting Ready: Photos of your dog with the bridal party during preparations can be incredibly touching.
- First Look: A playful shot of the couple with their dog during the first look can add a fun twist.
- Family Portraits: Don’t forget to include your furry family member in formal portraits and group shots.
- Signing marriage certificate: Have your doggo ink stamp a paw print as your witness! How cute would that be?!
Ensure Their Comfort
Wedding photos with dogs are amazing, but your pet’s comfort and well-being should be top priority throughout the event.
Make sure that they get breaks during the wedding photos. Let your caretaker go take them aside and give them a break. Let them have some water and sit down. Your caretaker should also be monitoring their behavior. If they are overwhelmed, or anxious, they can take them on a little walkie. If your doggo is triggered by other dogs and spots one, your caretaker can remove the dog and take them elsewhere so there aren’t any dog fights. If a stray dog comes charging up, your caretaker can separate to make sure everything is OK.
By carefully planning and considering your dog’s needs, you can seamlessly obtain wedding photos with your dog, making the celebration all the more special. With a little effort, your furry friend can share in the joy of your big day, creating memories that you’ll cherish forever.
If you’re on the hunt for a wedding photographer who specializes in pet photos, look no further! Reach out today! And I cannot stress enough how great Walk Your Doggo is for all of your pet needs! Use code BOHODOGOO for a free meet and greet and 10% off your first service!!
