Gone are the days of traditional weddings! Today’s couples can customize their celebrations to include anything that suits their personal preferences. There is no more pressure to get married in a big church wedding with traditional organ music. Bridesmaids do not have to be dressed in pink frocks with puffy sleeves and men are not forced to wear traditional bow ties or coats with tails. In fact, your attendants don’t have to be people at all! Many people these days are choosing to make their pets an important part of their wedding celebration.

This new phenomenon is sweeping the wedding ceremonies of animal lovers around the world. Poodles are replacing flower girls and Saint Bernard’s are becoming ring bearers. If you have a special furry friend, an animal-friendly wedding might be your dream come true. So how do you know if your pet should be a part of your wedding?

Consider Your Pet’s Temperament

If you have a testy Chihuahua, it might not be a great idea to involve him in the wedding. You should keep your pet’s temperament at the fore front of your mind when deciding whether to use animals in the ceremony. If your dog tends to bark a lot or gets nervous around strangers, you should probably stick with traditional wedding etiquette and leave your pet at home. But if your pet is naturally social and enjoys being around other people, you might be able to make it work!

Do a Test Run Before the Wedding

If you aren’t sure how your pet will react to being around so many people, do a test run before the wedding. Expose your animal to various social settings by visiting the park or going for walks in crowded neighbourhoods. Make sure your animal responds well to attention from strangers. If you choose to bring your dog to the wedding, many guests will probably stop to pet him. You don’t want your pet to react in fear and bite a wedding guest. If your dog seems uncomfortable around strangers, you can work with a special trainer to socialize your dog and help him feel at ease in these kinds of situations.

Designate a Caregiver for Your Pet

If you decide to let your pet become a part of your wedding celebration, you need to designate a caregiver. You will be busy mingling with guests, cutting the cake and dancing with your new spouse on your wedding day. You won’t have time to chase your dog through the chapel or take him out for a bathroom break. Several months before the wedding, choose a trusted friend or family member and keep them in charge of your pet on the wedding day.

Make sure the person you choose is comfortable with your pet. Your pet should also feel at ease with this person. Let them get acquainted and spend some time together, without you, in the months leading up to your wedding. You should inform the person of your pet’s habits and quirks. If your dog tends to shake when he gets scared, let the caregiver know that shaking means the dog needs an immediate break from the crowd.

Above all, remember that your wedding day should be about you and the one you love. If you have an animal that you both cherish, then don’t be afraid to let the animal become a part of your wedding ceremony!