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Ways to Include Your Pet in Your Wedding Festivities

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  August 25th, 2023

Planning a wedding, and thinking about how you’ll include the most important people in your life, is exciting. But if pets are a part of your family, you might be wondering if they can be a part of your celebration, too. The answer is yes!

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If you’re one of the many  people who want to include their pets in their wedding, keep reading for a few tips and ideas that can help you plan the perfect day.   


Find a Pet-Friendly Wedding Venue


A lot of couples are opting to have their pets be a part of their wedding ceremony and/or reception. To do this, you need to find venues that allow dogs and cats. If you’re planning on getting married at the same place where your reception will be held, it can make things easier; otherwise, you’ll need to confirm with multiple venues that pets are allowed. Ask them about any restrictions that are in place for animals, whether you’re planning on having your event indoors or outside. 


It’s also wise to talk to your vendors about keeping your companion safe from potential hazards, such as toxic flowers from your florist. And, if possible, you might want to take your pet to the venue ahead of time so they won’t be in a brand-new place on your wedding day, distracted by all the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells.  


Include Your Pet in Your Wedding Ceremony or Reception


There are various roles that your pet can fill on your big day. Your guests are sure to get a kick out of seeing your pooch or kitty, and you’re guaranteed to make unforgettable memories as you celebrate love. 


Here are a few examples, but you can certainly get as creative as you’d like to include your pet in your wedding:


Walk down the aisle with your pet – Make your dog or cat a central part of your event by walking down the aisle with them. A bride might choose to walk down the aisle with her pet at her side, or a groom might lead his pet to the altar and then wait there for the bride, as a couple examples.  


Have your pet be the ring bearer – Want your furbaby to carry your rings to the altar? Have someone in your wedding party walk your pet down the aisle, and rehearse this well in advance to be sure your furbaby will know what to expect. They could wear a stylish collar or harness that holds rings securely – there are options like bowties, or you could opt for something like the  La La Pet® Detachable Pet Wedding Collar with Ring Box, which is available in multiple sizes for dogs and cats. 

Have your pet walk with the flower girl – Imagine your adorable pet walking down the aisle with your sweet flower girl – how cute would that be?! Fill a basket with flower petals (again, make sure they aren’t toxic) and have your dog carry it while the flower girl scatters the petals.  


Let your pet celebrate with everyone at the reception – Whether or not your pet is a part of the ceremony, you might want them to join you for the reception, especially if it will be quite relaxed, without loud music that could stress them out. And when you’re introduced as bride and groom, involving your furbaby can make it even more entertaining. Just be sure to prevent them from eating table scraps that might be harmful.  


Take Photos with Your Pet on Your Big Day


Whether or not your pet is involved in the ceremony, consider taking photos with them – after all, you’ll be able to display those pictures throughout your home to remember your special day with your furbaby. 


If your cat or dog is comfortable with wearing an outfit, there are options like the  Frisco Formal Dog & Cat Tuxedo – with something like this, your pet will fit right in with everyone in your formal wedding party. Just make sure your pet tries it on before your wedding day so you can be certain it fits right and isn’t bothersome.  

If your pet doesn’t like wearing outfits that cover a lot of their body, another example is the  Rubie's Pet Shop Celebrations Tuxedo Dog & Cat Costume, which includes a cuff set and bowtie that your furbaby might tolerate wearing.

Something simple like a bandana is another good option if your pet isn’t keen on wearing costumes. You can find those that are designed to look like tuxedos, as well as those that have fun phrases for weddings, like the  Pup of Honor (Maid of Honor) Bridal Party Wedding Dog Bandana. 

Showcase Your Pet in Your Wedding Stationery and Décor 


Not all pets will be okay with being an active part of such an elaborate event, or you might be concerned about the safety of your companion or the risk of losing them. Rest assured that there are other cute ways to include your pet in your wedding. 


For instance, when it comes to save-the-dates and invitations, you can customize them to include your furry friend, whether you use an illustration or photo. And, for the day of the wedding, there’s décor that can be designed to include your companion (e.g., welcome sign, centerpieces, napkins, place cards, program). You can even find wedding cake toppers that feature pets. 


Careful Planning Is Key


Before deciding to include your pet in your wedding, keep their personality in mind. Consider how they’ll react around a lot of people in a new environment. And only dress them up if it isn’t a problem, as some pets won’t even tolerate wearing little accessories.


Choose someone you trust to watch and guide your furbaby at all times, and ensure they’ll have what they need throughout the day. Also, have a plan for where your pet will go if they get stressed.


Once everything is in place, you can focus on having the time of your life on your big day, and the best part is that your beloved pet will be right there with you.  

WOW
Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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4 Blissful Tips On How To Include A Dog In Your Wedding

Here comes the bride… and her dog! There’s no reason why your pooch can’t be part of your special day. Your wedding day is said to be the most special day of your life and it is one you want to share with everyone who is important to you – including your dog! While some people think it is silly to include dogs in wedding ceremonies, there are those who feel that their dog is a part of the family and wouldn’t have it any other way. If you are thinking about including your dog in your ceremony, read this list of fun and creative ideas. 1.) Walking Down the Aisle Every wedding ceremony begins with the procession of people important to the bride and groom – the parents, siblings and friends that make up the wedding party. This is the perfect opportunity to include your dog. Have him act as an honorary groomsman in escorting one of the bridesmaids, or even the flower girl, down the aisle. You might also have him sit by your side as you take your vows. 2.) Ring-Bearer Many pet parents like to include their dogs in the wedding as a ring-bearer. This is a sweet and simple idea that can be modified to suit your pet’s personality. If your dog is very well-trained and calm, he could carry a pillow in his mouth with the rings tied to it. For dogs that are a little more excitable, it might be better to tie the rings to his collar and have a friend walk him down the aisle at the proper time. 3.) Wedding Photos On your special day, you want to take as many photos as possible to commemorate the occasion – these photos are the perfect opportunity to involve your pet. Take some traditional poses of you and your pet or get creative with a photo of your dog holding the bouquet in his mouth. If you want to go all out, dress your dog in a tuxedo of his own for the photos. 4.) Other Creative Ideas If you want to include your pet in the wedding in a non-traditional way, there are several things you can do. If your dog is small, you can carry him down the aisle in a flower-decorated basket rather than carrying a bouquet. Use your dog as a prop for the photo booth at your reception or have him hold a sign around his neck to give your guests important instructions. Additional Tips to Consider No matter what role your dog is going to play in the wedding, it is important that he is properly trained before the big day. The last thing you want is for your dog to eat the ring or trip you in your walk down the aisle because he couldn’t control himself. Make sure your dog knows the basic sit, stay and come commands so you can keep him in line on your special day. You may also want to consider enlisting the help of one of your guests to act as the caretaker for your dog during the ceremony – this person will be responsible for keeping the dog in line when he is not participating. Another thing to consider is whether your chosen venue will allow pets. For outdoor venues, this generally isn’t a problem but you should always check to be sure before you book the date. If you absolutely can’t bring your dog to the venue, try to include him in other ways such as taking pictures with him before you leave for the venue or including him in your Save the Date photo cards. You can also have a custom cake-topper made to include your pet in spirit at your reception. If your pet is an important part of your life, you want him to be included on the most important day of your life – use some of these tips to include your dog in your wedding day.

10 Ways to Honor Your Pet’s Memory

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You Give Love a Bad Name: 8 Ways NOT To Love Your Pet

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Ideally pets live indoors, but if you have an outside cat or dog, a collar is a must. Collars are just a good all-around, inexpensive preventative measure to ensuring the best chance of your pet coming home again.

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How Do I Teach My Cat to Play Fetch?

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What Is Dog Folliculitis and How to Treat It?

Folliculitis in dogs is a disease which causes infection or inflammation of hair follicles. It is one of the more common skin diseases amongst dogs and is caused by bacteria, fungal infections, skin irritations, or  parasites. What is more, it can affect dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds, so if it happens to your four-legged friend unexpectedly, it is best to know how to treat this pesky skin issue.What Is Dog Folliculitis?The symptoms and causes of dog folliculitis can vary. In most cases, the healthy follicle is “compromised”, which leads to the accumulation of bacteria that are otherwise normally found on your pet’s skin. The end result is great discomfort for your dog, and it should be treated as quickly as possible. But how will you know that it is dog folliculitis and not some other health issue? Well, one of the foremost symptoms to look out for is red and inflamed skin. This condition causes excessive redness and even swelling in certain areas of the skin. This should be a telltale sign that something is amiss. Together with this, you could notice pimples, also known as pustules. They are small raised bumps and often contain pus. Of course, your dog will show signs of discomfort as well. They will try to itch and  lick the affected areas, in hopes of relieving the discomfort and making themselves more comfortable. This can all be accompanied by hair loss, mostly in the directly affected areas of your dog’s coat and skin. Ultimately, in the most severe cases, open sores, scabs, and skin lesions may appear. At this point, veterinary care is needed immediately.If you suspect your dog has folliculitis, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can perform diagnostic tests, such as skin scrapings or cultures, to identify the specific cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. It is crucial that you do not attempt any solution on your own. Self-diagnosis and do-it-yourself treatment can lead to complications or ineffective outcomes, so professional guidance is essential. Based on the evaluation, your vet can introduce a number of treatments and solutions – here’s what to expect.How Is Dog Folliculitis Treated?Topical antibiotics and antifungal creams are the most common treatment options. They are applied directly to the affected areas and are most efficient in early and moderate cases of dog folliculitis. Of course, if the case with your dog is more serious, your vet could propose an oral treatment. This consists of special medications that work to eliminate the infection at the core. Another possible solution is using special medicated shampoos that work to heal the follicles through gentle washing. 

Why Is My Dog Licking and Chewing His Paws?

You might think it’s gross, but your pooch certainly doesn’t – canines are known to lick themselves as a way of grooming. While your dog might lick their body thoroughly to keep it clean, sometimes, their self-grooming can be abnormal. If you notice that your pet is licking or even chewing their paws obsessively, it should raise concern. This type of behavior might indicate an underlying medical issue, so here’s what you need to know before you phone your vet.Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick and Chew Their Paws?While some licking of their paws after they get dirty can be perfectly normal, constant licking or chewing of the paws is certainly not usual behavior. There could be several reasons behind this, and it could indicate that your attention and even intervention are needed. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs lick and chew their paws.Allergies:  Allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites), and contact allergies (for example, from cleaning products or lawn chemicals), can lead to itching and discomfort in dogs. Paw licking and chewing can be a response to this itching. If you suspect that an allergy might be in question, don’t hesitate to visit your vet.Skin irritation or infection: If your dog's paws are red, swollen, or have an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a  skin infection or irritation. Bacterial or fungal infections, as well as foreign objects like splinters or thorns, can lead to serious issues down the road. Again, if you notice any of the above, it’s time to visit the vet.Dry or cracked paw pads: Dry or cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable for dogs. Licking and chewing may be their way of trying to soothe the discomfort. This happens to many dogs, and can be caused by their environment, the surface on which they walk, and many other things. Luckily, you can prevent this with paw wax that will create a barrier between the pads and the walking surface, or treat existing issues with paw butter that soothes and repairs the pads. This particular  2-in-1 paw butter and wax is a favorite of mine because it is made from all-natural ingredients and heals cracked paws in no time – while simultaneously preventing future irritation and dryness. 

This App Helps Lost Pets Find a Way Back Home – Already Saving 8,000

PetRadar is a company like no other, helping desperate owners find their missing cherished pets. And now, after successfully reuniting 8,000 missing cats with their owners, the company has expanded to include missing dogs as well.According to the research done by  ASPCA, around 15% of all cats in the USA go missing over a five period. But that is not the worst of it. In just one year, around 10,000,000 dogs go missing in the United States alone. It is a truly alarming statistic, and PetRadar aims to change it for good. David Olthaar is the man behind PetRadar and created his brand almost spontaneously. The idea came to him when he saw a blurry “missing cat” poster on a rainy night. It was almost impossible for that poster to yield results. So he thought that a better way existed, especially in our day and age. And the result is PetRadar and its great success.  "We wanted to use social media ads for good. And what's better than reuniting lost pets with their owners?" David Olthaar said. Thanks to the benefits of the modern digital age, they used sponsored posts on social media to advertise the search for the missing cat in a 1km radius around its last address. The success was near instant. After the first missing cat was found, it became clear just how effective the idea was. "I remember when the first sighting of a lost cat came in. I couldn't believe it. Reuniting them was a beautiful moment. I was even invited for dinner as a thank you!"The idea soon became a major project and a successful worldwide system for finding missing pets. "After finding our 8000th missing cat, I knew we needed to start saving dogs, too!"So, after initially being named CatRadar, the company became PetRadar - expanding on missing dogs as well. And within a week, the first missing doggo had been reunited with his owners. We can only imagine the bright future that lies ahead of this project, and the happy end for many missing pets (and their owners) around the globe.

42% of Pet Parents Feel Caring for Pets is More Stressful Than Kids!

Pets can be an incredible addition to any family, but they can also come with a bit of stress. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly half of pet parents shared that caring for their pet was more stressful than caring for their partner or even their children! What is it about our pets that worries us the most? That was the goal of the recent survey conducted by OnePoll and ElleVet Sciences. They polled 2000 pet owners, asking them questions about their relationships, their pets, and the stress that they experience in their role. The answers revealed that the top three sources of stress in most people’s lives include their finances (54%), their job or career (49%), and their ability to care for their pets (42%). The survey went on to discuss reasons for being stressed about our pets, and there was one concern that the majority of respondents shared – as pet parents, we worry about our ability to provide the care our pets will need in their senior years. As our pets get older, their needs often change. We can see this in the way they act and the activities they engage in. A once hyperactive, high-energy dog may start to slow down and sleep more. A dog that easily jumped onto the couch most of their lives now requires stairs or a ramp to get up for cuddle time. Not all changes that come with aging are inherently bad, but 68% of parents say watching their pet age and suffer would be more hurtful to them than losing their job (61%) or breaking up with their partner (61%). “Supporting your pet through all stages of life can minimize their stress, allowing you to create more happy memories together,” shared Amanda Howland, co-founder and CCO of ElleVet Sciences. “As your pet gets older, it’s important to be proactive in identifying the signs of aging, such as difficulty moving, trouble sleeping, and social isolation. It’s all about more time, and more quality time with your pet, and for them, aging and stress are intertwined so taking care of discomfort-related aging and cognitive decline can reduce their stress significantly.” The concern shared by the survey respondents (and other pet parents nationwide) clearly illustrates how important our pets are in our lives. While 73% of those surveyed described their pet as their “protector,” they serve many other vital roles in our lives – our best friends, sounding boards, cheerleaders, motivators, and companions. Your senior pet may require some changes around the home. Throw rugs can be used to provide traction on slippery floors. Safety gates are key for blocking off unsafe areas like staircases that could lead to injury. Caring for our senior pets may be stressful, but it’s also an opportunity to repay our pets for everything they have given us throughout their lives. Even just setting aside time in your schedule each day for a walk around the block followed by a short cuddle on the couch can positively impact their lives, reducing stress and promoting better health. “Just like us, pets’ needs can change as they age, so their daily routines, diet, and exercise may need to be adjusted to improve their quality of life, as well as adding high-quality supplements,” Howland explained. “Small adjustments can ensure your pet’s golden years are less stressful for both themselves and their human companion.”

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Often Should I Feed My Fish?

Keeping aquarium fish is such a rewarding experience, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to do so – there are many things to know about these wonderful creatures, and caring for them can require a lot of patience and plenty of learning. Of course, it all starts with the basic stuff, and it doesn’t get more basic than feeding your pet! A common question by pet fish owners is related to feeding frequency, as their aquatic friends can’t really let them know when they are hungry. So, without further ado, here’s how often should you feed your fish depending on their unique characteristics.How Often Should I Feed My Fish?There are a lot of factors that will determine the feeding schedule you have for the inhabitants of your saltwater or freshwater aquarium. The frequency of feeding your fish depends on the type of fish, their age, and the specific conditions of your tank. Adult tropical fish are most commonly fed once or twice a day. You can feed them a small amount of food that they can consume within a few minutes. Cold-water adult fish, on the other hand, such as  goldfish, can be fed two or three times a day. In any case, be cautious not to overfeed as it can lead to water quality issues.Young fish, however, may require more frequent feeding, at least three times a day, because they are still growing rapidly. Of course, some specific types of fish have equally specific dietary requirements. Research the particular needs of the species you are keeping to ensure you are providing the right type and amount of food. Your local pet fish store can also provide guidelines, as can your vet. When you are feeding your fish, it is important to stick around and observe them, at least initially. Paying attention to your fish during feeding can provide you with plenty of information. If they consume all the food quickly, you can consider increasing the amount slightly. If there is uneaten food after a few minutes, you may be overfeeding. Try to find that perfect balance. Another thing to consider is the so-called “fasting day”. This means not giving your fish any food for a period of 24 hours – and don’t worry, this won’t harm them. It's a good idea to incorporate a fasting day into the weekly routine. This helps mimic their natural feeding patterns and allows their digestive systems to rest. Most aquarists fast their fish for one day of the week, which is more than enough for your fish to reap the benefits.How Much Food Should I Give My Fish?A good rule of thumb is to always give less food than you think your fish need – and add more additionally throughout multiple feedings during the day if needed. Remember that overfeeding can lead to poor water quality as uneaten food breaks down and produces waste. It's crucial to maintain a balance and not exceed the recommended amount. In such cases, it is good to have a  special aquarium water quality monitor, which can tell you the key information about the water in the tank. Additionally, some fish species are more active during certain times of the day, so adjusting feeding times to coincide with their natural behavior can be beneficial.

Here Are the 10 Rarest Dog Breeds in America
Here Are the 10 Rarest Dog Breeds in America
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Study Finds Pets Didn't Make People Happier During the Pandemic

Would you say that your pet help you feel better during the pandemic? Countless pet parents, myself included, would say they experienced less stress and anxiety during lockdown thanks to their four-legged companions. However, a new study led by researchers from Michigan State University suggests otherwise. Researchers couldn’t find a reliable association between pet ownership and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though owners claimed pets improved their lives. The pandemic was extremely stressful for everyone. The research team from Michigan State University theorized that the pandemic created ideal conditions to determine how much happiness and comfort pets actually provide to their families. The study, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, evaluated 767 people on three separate occasions in May 2020. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, looking at several indicators of well-being. They also asked owners in an open-ended question to think about the role of pets. Unsurprisingly, pet owners reported their pets made them happy. Owners claimed pets help them feel more positive emotions and provide companionship and affection, but also expressed worry about their pet’s well-being and reported their pets interfered with working remotely. But when researchers compared the happiness of pet owners to levels seen in non-pet owners they made a surprising discovery. Shockingly, the data showed no difference in the well-being of pet owners and non-pet owners over time. The research team explained that it did not matter what type of pet people owned, how many pets they had, or how close owners were with their pets. The personalities of the owners weren’t a factor either. “People say pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, in a university release. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely to be as transformative as people think,” added Chopik. The research team also explored several other potential reasons as to why there was no difference in the happiness levels of pet owners and non-pet owners. The most likely reason might be that non-pet owners have found ways to fill their lives with activities and interests that make them as happy as owning a pet would. “Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and maybe costly, given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,”  said Chopik. Another study, involving 4,237 people, beginning at the start of the pandemic and ending in December 2021, had similar findings. Although owners grew closer to their pets, especially dogs, during the pandemic, that didn’t stave off stress.In fact, the lowest stress levels were seen in non-pet owners. When you think about it, these results kind of make sense - pet owners had an additional mouth to feed during the lockdown and had limited opportunities to take their dogs out for a walk or play session. The results of these studies are surprising, to say the least. I was positive that I was happier than my poochless friends during the lockdown, but guess that wasn’t the case. After thinking about this a bit more, I realized that maybe we shouldn’t expect so much from our four-legged companions. Yes, there are many benefits to owning a pet, and pets can make us happy, but ultimately happiness depends on ourselves. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Never Scoop Again With Litter-Robot, The Purrfect Gift For Cat Lovers

Cats like a clean litter box just as much as cat owners do, but scooping clumps can be a hassle. Whisker’s Litter-Robot, the highest-rated, self-cleaning litter box for cats, eliminates the need to scoop the litter box. The newest model, Litter-Robot 4, provides a clean bed of litter for your cats after every use. It features patented sifting technology that sifts out waste after every use and deposits it into a tightly-sealed waste drawer, helping to keep odor under control. For Black Friday, you can scoop one up for less, with $75 off bundles with the Purrfect Litter-Robot accessories you will want.What Sets the Litter-Robot Apart? Litter-Robot 4 features an advanced, patented, sifting technology with QuietSift™ for nearly-silent sifting. That’s right, you don’t have to scoop and you don’t hear the litter being sifted. What could be better?

Is AI Making it Easier to Have a Conversation with Your Pet?

We ask the question: Is there really an app in the works that will help us talk to animals?

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