For many couples, pets are part of the family, which makes it only natural to want them included in one of life’s biggest moments. But before bringing your four-legged companion along for the ride, it’s essential to make sure your wedding plans truly support their comfort and safety.
How to Determine if Your Wedding is Truly Pet-Friendly
Meagan Pinney, owner of Your Jubilee Weddings, highlights practical factors couples should evaluate before committing. “A few things to consider: The Venue: Not every venue allows animals, so check with your venue before you commit. Even if they do, confirm where pets are allowed, since some may say yes to outdoor ceremonies but no to indoor receptions. The Environment: Is it a breezy spring day on the lawn or a 105° Arizona afternoon? We love a desert wedding, but it’s not exactly paw-friendly if your pet will be in the sun for hours. Your Pet’s Personality: Be honest, will they love the attention, or get overwhelmed by 150 people clapping and cameras flashing? If your pet isn’t the social type, that’s totally okay, there are other ways to make them part of the day.”
Kayla Kudo, Social Sales and Catering Manager of Enchantment Resort, adds that understanding the venue’s rules and accommodations is critical. “Before assuming your venue or vendor team is pet-friendly, ask detailed questions. A truly pet-friendly space goes beyond simply allowing animals - it means having policies, safety considerations, and accommodations in place. Ask if there are designated areas for walks or relief breaks, rules about leash use, and whether pets are allowed in indoor or food-service spaces. It’s also worth confirming your pet’s temperament fits the setting; a calm pup might love it, but an anxious one may find it overwhelming.”
Ashley Allan from Your Jubilee Weddings emphasizes that a pet-friendly celebration “isn’t just about allowing your dog to show up, it’s about creating an environment where your pet is safe, happy, and supported throughout the celebration. We love hiring a wedding pet attendant service. This ensures a trained professional is caring for your furry friend(s) and you don't have to worry. Most venues only allow dogs to stay through the ceremony because of food service laws. Some pet attendants will even transport your pet back to your room or home and pet sit for the duration of the evening when necessary.”
Photo by Brittany Nemic with Your Jubilee Weddings
Smart Ways to Include Pets Without Stress
Even social pets can become overwhelmed during a wedding. Structuring their involvement carefully ensures a joyful experience for everyone.
Plan logistics carefully to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety. Pinney suggests hiring a professional pet attendant to “handle everything from transport and walks, to water breaks and photo time so you can stay fully in the moment.” She also recommends dressing your pet in a safe, comfortable accessory and having a backup plan in case they get anxious, with a trusted friend ready to take them home or to the hotel. Thoughtful preparation like this keeps your pet calm and lets you fully enjoy the celebration.
Designate a trusted “pet attendant” for the day to handle walks, water breaks, and exits so you can stay focused on celebrating. As Kudo recommends, having someone to manage these details lets you “consider bringing your pet in just for portraits or a brief ceremony walk down the aisle, then having them head home or to a sitter. Keeping the timeline short and structured helps make it a joyful experience for everyone, especially your furry guest of honor.”
Think of your pet’s involvement as a cameo, not a leading role. Allan advises to “keep their participation to a short, well-timed moment, like walking down the aisle or popping in for portraits, then have a trusted handler whisk them away. That way you get the joy of including them, but you and your guests can focus on celebrating without worry.”
Photo by Emerald AZ with Your Jubilee Weddings
Creative Alternatives for Honoring Pets Who Can’t Atten
Even if your pet cannot physically be at the wedding, there are many ways to celebrate them from afar. Allan highlights personal, keepsake-style ideas that honor your furry friend. She recommends “custom illustrations on invitations, or even miniature cake toppers in their likeness.” These creative options make your pet a meaningful part of the wedding without requiring their physical presence.
Kudo suggests bringing your pet into the celebration through décor and fun details. As she explains, “Incorporate their image into your décor, like custom cocktail napkins, signature drinks, or blown-up photos to be part of the dancing fun.” These playful touches let your pet feel part of the celebration in a visual and interactive way.
Pinney emphasizes symbolic gestures and charitable acts. “Not every fur baby can attend the big day, and that’s okay! You can honor your pet by featuring their photo on the welcome table, bar sign, or add custom details like a tiny embroidered paw print on your veil or suit. For an extra heartfelt touch, consider donating to a local animal shelter in their honor, a sweet way to make your celebration feel even more meaningful.” These ideas allow you to celebrate your pet’s spirit while giving back or adding personal touches that guests will notice.
Photo by Ashley Rae Photography with Enchantment Resort
Tail End Takeaway
Including your pet in your wedding can be a joyful, memorable experience with proper preparation. With professional support, structured participation, and creative alternatives for pets who cannot attend, your furry friend can truly be part of your love story. Whether walking the aisle, appearing in photos, or being represented in spirit through décor and cocktails, pets can add extra heart, happiness, and even a few wagging tails to your big day.
Main Photo by Emerald AZ with Your Jubilee Weddings
