Wedding Day Dog Tips

• Venue – Ensure you book a dog friendly wedding venue. Many venues allow dogs in the grounds for photographs however if you wish to include your dog in the ceremony you must seek agreement from the venue and registrar too.
• Expectations – Is your dog excitable, nervous, boisterous or obedient? Ensure your dog has the right temperament to cope with all the attention. Weddings are stressful and overwhelming – if you would like them to play a specific role in your day, think carefully about how it will work to avoid any anxiety.
• Strengths – Make sure your plan incorporates your dog’s primary strengths. What does your dog do best? If they ‘sit’, it may be good to have your dog sitting still during the ceremony or photographs. If they are restless, they may faithfully run down the aisle to deliver the rings and be caught at the other end!
• Noise – Involve your dog in the ceremony and photographs but not the reception. They are noisy and can be overwhelming.
• Wedding attire – If you would like your dog to wear a special accessory or flowers, make sure it is safe and comfortable. Remember certain flowers or foliage can be poisonous to dogs so you must check!
• Guests – Consider telling guests that your dog is attending your big day in case they have allergies or fear them! Maybe add this to your ‘save the date’ or invitation. And tell your dog chaperone so they can keep them away from any worried guests.
• Photographer – Let your photographer know that your dog will be at your wedding, so they are prepared, and you can plan fun ideas for photos and make the most of your dog’s appearance!
• Embrace the chaos – If your dog rebels on the big day, remember theses frustrations are the crazy stories told for years to come!
• Chaperone – You can focus on having a fabulous time without worrying about juggling dog duty. Let us at Oh Bella be responsible for your dog throughout your big day to keep them calm, engaged, exercised and focused for the big moment!