VIP: Very Important Pet

He’s always been there for you through thick and thin. He waits for you to come home everyday. Nothing feels quite as comforting as the moment he comes and cuddles with you. No! I’m not talking about your future husband; I’m talking about your beloved pet! Weddings do tend to get chaotic and it is completely okay to opt for keeping your pooch in a doggie daycare. However if you do decide to include your special little guy or gal in the ceremony, there are plenty of delightful ways to incorporate your pet into your wedding!

The most popular idea is to have your dog act as your ring bearer. Not everyone can find a little boy to be a ring bearer. But if you already have a well behaved pet, why not let him have this important role on the big day? There are special cushion ring-holders that are especially made to be strapped onto your dog. Many vendors online sell these specialized cushions, or if you’re crafty and feeling up for a challenge, opt for a DIY version that you can personalize.

On the other hand, if you already have a ring bearer in mind, you can still make your pet your VIP guest. There are many cute DIY signs or outfits that are simply too adorable to resist! With so many ways to invite your specially little guy or gal into your ceremony, how will you incorporate him/her into your big day?

Planning with a Pet in Mind

Consider Your Pet’s Personality

A pet can be a guest of honor and simply stand with the wedding party during the ceremony, or your pet can have a specific role (ring bearer or flower girl are common roles) in the ceremony. But before giving your pet a starring role, think about whether this will be an enjoyable experience for him. Will your pet feel comfortable around your guests? Is he obedient and well behaved? There’s no guarantee that your pet will behave exactly how you want him to on the day of the wedding. Even the most outgoing and friendly pet can be overwhelmed by a crowd of guests, according to NAPPS. To make sure that your pet has enough time to develop a level of comfort around your guests, consider hiring a pet sitter, who will act as your pet's guide. And if your pet is especially skittish, consider having someone carry him or letting him ride in a wagon. And if he’s overly affectionate or easily distracted, be sure to use a short leash. Not all pets are suited to a wedding, and it’s important to assess the temperament of yours. Is he friendly or aggressive? Does he make a lot of noise? Does he try to steal food? If your pet's disposition doesn't lend itself to this type of situation, don't try to train him in the weeks leading up to your wedding.

Be Flexible

Once you've decided how to include your pet, be prepared to be flexible on the wedding day. "You can't force it," says Marc Morrone, owner of Parrots of the World pet store in Rockville Centre, New York. "If you expect your pet to perform a certain feat, have a backup plan in case he doesn't do it." Also, consider your own personality. A relaxed attitude is crucial.

Confirm That Pets are Allowed at Your Ceremony

With everything else on your to-do list, it’s easy to forget this simple—yet important—step. You don’t want to show up on the day of your wedding, four-legged ring-bearer in tow, only to be told that he needs to get off the propery, stat. Can’t bring your pet? You can still include her in the wedding! Include your pet in your portraits after the ceremony or in your engagement photos. At the reception, include photos of your pet on your table number cards, or make your wedding favors in tribute to your beloved pooch.

Notify Your Photographer

Prepare your photographer to capture your pet in action. It'll help your photographer prep for those unplanned moments, like when your dog leaps up to kiss you during the vows. Your photographer can also help you brainstorm fun photo ideas with your pets for after the ceremony.

Don’t Jeopardize Safety for Style

Planning on dressing your pooch in a tux? Make sure it fits properly and doesn’t create any discomfort for your pet. Keep the accessories simple—a bowtie or flower attached to the collar is a fun way to deck out your pet. Ensure that any accessories won’t come loose and pose a choking hazard to your pet.

Anticipate Potential Hazards

Ask at the wedding site about pesticides or toxic plants on the grounds, and about creatures that might distract or threaten your pet. Check online if any flowers or plants being used in your ceremony are toxic to your pet. If your florist is adorning your pet's collar, be sure she uses nontoxic materials. And keep pets, especially dogs, someplace safe during the reception so guests won't feed them. Certain wedding fare, including chocolate, alcohol, and meat with bones, can be dangerous.

Inform Your Attendants

Well in advance, inform attendants and vendors that your pet will play a role, and discuss special measures you'd like them to take. Also notify your officiant. Some may refuse to preside over a wedding that includes pets.

Never Leave Your Pet Alone

Consider hiring a handler with whom the pet is already acquainted, or have a friend be responsible for the pet during the wedding.

Practice Makes Perfect

Bring your pet to the site before the wedding day, and have him come to the rehearsal to practice his part if he will be participating in the ceremony.

The Other "Groom"

Take the animal to the groomer before the wedding so he'll look his best. Keep adornments minimal and easy for the pet to wear. Don't make him wear them for longer than is necessary.

Have you attended weddings with pets?
Would you include your pet at your wedding?