If you are a pet owner, then you know that there is no better companion in life than your furry friend. They will stick with you through thick and thin and always be by your side. With that fact in mind, it is no surprise why so many people want to include their dogs and other pets in their wedding ceremonies.

While it is great to see your cat bring the rings down the aisle or have your dog stand in as a “groomsdog,” you must also keep safety in mind so your pet can stay in good spirits and you won’t have to deal with any unnecessary wedding anxiety. If you are planning to include your pet in your wedding, then consider these safety tips.

Plan Ahead

Since having your dog, cat, or bird in your wedding is still rather unconventional, you will want to take steps to ensure that your wedding goes off without a hitch and that your pet is safe. Start by seriously thinking about your pet’s temperament. Are they typically on edge, and do they have a history of barking or biting? If so, then you may want to keep them at home. Also, consider if your pet gets nervous in new or noisy situations. They may typically be even-tempered, but if you know they will get spooked and cause a scene, then you may want to leave them out.

Once you decide that your pet will behave, the essential next step is to call the venue and ensure that there is not a no-pets policy. There is nothing worse than training your dog, making all the necessary arrangements, and paying a lot of money only to show up on the day of your wedding and find that your pet is not allowed. Even if your wedding is outside, the venue may still not allow it. Calling is a good idea because even if they have a no-pets policy, they may make an exception if you describe how the event will go and you mention the safety precautions you are taking.

Finally, you should take some time to train your pet and see if they will be able to successfully complete the task you have planned. There are many roles your dog can take in your wedding, and you want to ensure that they are up to the job. Don’t hesitate and wait until the last moment just to find that your pet won’t comply.

Beware of Outdoor Threats

There are countless perks to having an outdoor gathering, including the fact that being in sunlight can improve our mood and make us feel more relaxed. Breathing in the fresh air can even help our immune system and prevent us from getting sick. However, even if your pet is well-behaved and loves to be outside, you will need to protect them from the outdoor elements.

For starters, it is essential that you make it a point to repetitively check the weather forecasts in the months and days leading up to the wedding and make the proper adjustments. So, if rain is expected, then you may want to change the date. If it is forecasted that it will be hot that day, then you want to take the proper steps to protect your pets and your guests from the dangers of heat stroke. Precautions could include ensuring that there will be plenty of shade at the venue, along with bringing enough bottled water so that everyone is properly hydrated.

If you will have a wooded background to your nuptials or you are getting married in a park, then you will want to plan for the possibility of fleas, ticks, and other pests and protect your pet. As the event draws near, purchase some flea and tick shampoo. After the ceremony has ended, rub them down and feel for ticks. If you spot any, then carefully remove them so they don’t further harm your pet. Your guests should also be advised to wear long pants and shirt sleeves to avoid ticks, as well.

Keep Your Pet in Good Spirits

Since your pet is doing so much to make your wedding day so special, it is important that you do the same for them and help them to be happy and at ease during this busy time. Since you will likely be very busy on the morning of your wedding, it is a good idea to put your pet in the care of a loved one or a pet sitter so they don’t feel neglected.

After your dog completes their part of the wedding festivities, the dog sitter can also bring them to the side to feed them and help them relax. Since you will likely be busy during the reception as well, the sitter should continue to hang around to ensure your pet’s safety.

You may have grand designs about the outfit that you want your pet to wear during the wedding, but you should consider the animal’s feelings as well. Modify the outfit so that they can move easily and use the bathroom when necessary. If you put the outfit on and you can see that your pet is clearly uneasy, then consider skipping the attire, so they don’t freak out.

Finally, make sure that you pack everything that your pet will need during a long day. Essentials include food, a water dish, their favorite toy, and treats. Reward your pet after they complete their task, so they continue to behave.

As you can see, it is very possible to include your pet in your wedding, and you can do so safely when incorporating these tips. Take the right precautions, and it will be a day that you and your pet will never forget.