For many couples, a wedding day wouldn’t feel complete without their beloved pet by their side. Whether it’s a pup trotting down the aisle or a cat featured on your cocktail napkins, including your furry friend can make your celebration feel even more personal. But pulling it off seamlessly requires careful preparation, clear communication, and a genuine understanding of your pet’s needs.
Confirm Your Venue’s Pet Policy Early
Before you fall in love with a location, make sure it’s actually pet-friendly. “To include pets in your wedding, verify with your venue that they are pet-friendly before booking and check their specific policies on where pets can go and for how long,” advises Fran Steiner, Events By Fran. Ask about access to indoor spaces, limitations during the reception, and any additional fees or liability rules. Clear communication prevents surprises and ensures your pet’s participation is allowed and safe.
Consider Your Pet's Personality
Even if your pet is part of the family, that doesn’t mean they’ll love being part of a crowd. “Consider your pet’s personality - if they’re calm and social, they may enjoy being part of the celebration, but if they’re easily stressed, a brief appearance for photos might be best,” advises Ashley Monge of Monge Amore Events. The goal is to make their role joyful, not overwhelming.
Assign a Dedicated Pet Handler
A handler is a must-have for any event involving animals. “The key to pulling this off is a dedicated pet handler,” says Heather Balliet of Amorology. “Whether it’s a trusted friend, family member, or someone your pet already knows and loves, having a designated responsible person who can take them away after photos and their moment down the aisle ensures you can fully soak in your day while your furry friend is cared for behind the scenes.”
Create a Pet-Friendly Environment
Comfort and safety go hand in paw. “A genuinely pet-friendly wedding prioritizes animal comfort through thoughtful preparation. Designate a quiet ‘pet zone’ with water and shade, and assign a dedicated handler outside the wedding party. This ensures your pet's safety while allowing you to fully enjoy your celebration,” says Anastasia Shevchenko, Sheff Production Photography & Videography. Include familiar blankets or toys, and make sure the space is away from loud music, crowds, or direct sun.
Keep Safety Front and Center
Weddings are full of tempting distractions and hidden dangers. “Keep them safe by ensuring they stay away from table food, alcohol, and wedding decor that could be hazardous,” notes Monge. Small decorations, candles, and even certain flowers can be harmful, so assign someone to supervise and prevent accidental escapes or mishaps.
Keep Appearances Brief and Managed
Avoid overtaxing your pet by giving them a single, practiced role. “Assign your pet one specific, practiced role - like the processional or photos with their handler. Brief, well-rehearsed appearances create beautiful moments without overwhelming your pet throughout the long wedding day,” says Shevchenko. This keeps their participation fun and stress-free.
Honor Pets Who Can’t Attend
If your venue isn’t pet-friendly or your furry friend isn’t up for the excitement, there are still meaningful ways to include them. “Consider placing a photo or signature cocktail on the menu to honor them,” suggests Steiner. You can also feature feature them in your stationery, create a custom cake topper, or display a framed photo at the reception. These small gestures make them part of the day even from afar.
Paws for Thought
As Monge puts it, “Including your pet in your wedding can make the day extra special, but it takes thoughtful planning.” From confirming logistics to setting realistic expectations, preparation is key. With care, flexibility, and a little paw-sitivity, your four-legged friend can be part of your love story, whether they’re walking the aisle, posing for portraits, or represented in spirit ... adding even more heart (and maybe a few happy tail wags) to your big day!
Brett Munoz Photography
