Is your pet ready for the big day? Important considerations for a Pet Friendly Wedding

Whether you share a pet with your betrothed, or you have a pet that’s been a major part of your life, even during the dark days of singledom,
As long as your pet isn’t the super-anxious type, or prone to acts of aggression, there’s no reason why your pet can’t become a part of your big day.
If your pet is going to be a part of the ceremony, make sure they’re calm enough to handle a big group of strangers. Keep them on a leash and halter at all times, even if they’re being carried.

If you decide to add flowers to your pet’s collar, or adorn them with a wreath or garland, make sure the plants being used won’t cause allergies or skin rashes. Also, be sure your pet’s vaccines are up-to-date, and provide plenty of water throughout the ceremony—nervous pets pant, and that means they get extra thirsty. It’s OK to provide occasional treats, but don’t overdo it, and don’t forget to provide them with their normal food.

Even if you don’t include your pet in the ceremony itself, you can still incorporate them into the photo session, either with a few pre-wedding shots, or in a separate area on the day of the wedding.

Most importantly, consider the ceremony from the pet’s perspective. Weddings and receptions can be hectic and overwhelming even for people who understand what’s going on; for pets, they can cause considerable anxiety. Be honest about your own pet’s ability to adapt and whether the events, noise and crush of strangers might be too much for him or her to handle. Being a pet owner means making selfless decisions to benefit your furry loved one, so remember: Although it might be fun and meaningful for you to include your pet, it might not be the best option for them.