Your wedding day is all about the two of you celebrating each other with those you love most, so it just makes sense that you’d want your dog there to celebrate too! Having your dog at your wedding does come with some challenges though. I talked with Tehya & Tiffany of Furever & Fur Always, a wedding day dog care company, about what you should consider!

1. How long do you want your dog at the venue (and what’s their tolerance level?)

Every dog is different regarding their tolerance level at the venue. Tehya & Tiffany suggest having them get there a little bit before either photos (if you’re doing a first look) or before the ceremony early to get walked, get some energy out, and get acquainted with the space so that the ceremony and photos go smoothly! When the reception starts, it’s usually best for them to give you a lick goodnight!

2. Is your venue dog-friendly?

This is the most important thing to check on for your big day! Some venues are 100% okay with your furry friend being there, some venues have guidelines on where your pet can be, and there are some venues that are not pet-friendly.

However, Tehya & Tiffany say that some venues make exceptions when they know a wedding day pet handler will be watching your pet the entire time. If you ask and your pet still is not permitted, then it’s best to find a spot right off site where your pup can join in for a few pictures!

3. Are any of your guests allergic to dogs?

If you know a lot of your guests are allergic to dogs, it’d be a great idea to hire a pet handler so they can make sure they’re not mingling with allergic guests. It might also be best for the dogs to be part of the pictures only away from guests. A quick walk down the aisle might be okay too, but this depends on the severity of their allergies. 

4. Should you hire a professional pet care company?

Hiring a professional wedding day pet care company makes the day less stressful for you and all your guests. This way you know your pup is getting to and from the venue safely without anyone missing a moment of your big day. It will also put you at ease knowing your pup is getting exercised, loved, and entertained 100% of the time. Pictures and the ceremony will run smoother with assistance from a wedding day pet care professional and lots of treats. The best way to think about them is like a wedding planner for your pup!

If you’re definitely interested in incorporating your dog at your wedding but don’t think they’ll be able to handle actually being there, here are some ideas to still involve them!

1. Signature drinks named after them
2. Include them in the engagement session
3. Send home doggie bags of dog treats for guests
4. Custom cookies with their cute faces on them

There ya have it! If you’re set on having your dog at your wedding, reach out to Furever & Fur Always to make sure the day’s as stress free as possible, and if you’re looking for a wedding photographer, I’d love to meet your fur baby!