Your dog’s given her blessing (in so many slobbers), and now you want her right by your side when you say, “I do.” Or maybe you want pupper to wag down the aisle to deliver the rings. Or show off that fine cha-cha during the reception. Furtunately, there’s a service for that. They’re called pet wedding attendants, and they’re a growing trend across the country. Learn more about what a pet wedding attendant does to make your wedding extra special.
What Is a Pet Wedding Attendant?
A wedding pet attendant is essentially a dog (or cat, or pony) chaperone for the day of your wedding. You want pup included, but obvi can’t attend to all his demands (and def can’t pick up poo in your wedding dress).
“We create a worry-free, safe, and fun environment for everyone involved,” says Lara Leinen of Doggy Social MN. “We’ll dress, walk, chauffeur, photograph, feed, and play with your pet so they can be a part of your big day.”
Why Should You Hire a Wedding Pet Attendant?
Couples want all their friends and family at their wedding to have a good time. And while your dog def knows all about good times and good vibes, caring for him at the wedding may be a big ask for a friend or family member.
Also, some venues only allow pups to attend for the ceremony and photos. Hiring a dog wedding attendant ensures doggo is taken care of when it’s time to go home for the night.
“Logistically, it’s very challenging to figure out how to get a pet to the wedding and how to get them home, but with a pet wedding attendant it’s all arranged,” says Tehya Mockapetris of Furever and Fur Always in Maryland.
Wedding Advice From Pet Wedding Attendants
Wanna get in on this mutt-rimonial magic? Follow these woofs of wisdom from the pros.
- Bring pup to daycare the day before your wedding. You want their excess energy burned off so the walk down the aisle doesn’t turn into a zoomie.
- Teach your floof to sit and stay. These are great skills for the wedding day, especially the photos.
- Accessorize, honey. While your pup is pawfect just the way she is, finding a cute bowtie, floral collar, pearl necklace, or bandana can add just the right amount of fancy. Here are our top picks
- Respect your dog’s limits. Just because you want your furry best friend on the dance floor ‘til the DJ plays that last song, you know your dog best. If the people, lights, music, and smells might be too much for Fido, consider reining in your plans. After all, he loves you and not what you’ve done with the table settings.
Would you want your dog at your wedding? Bark at us in the comments, and pawlease tag #SidewalkDog in any dog of honor pics.
Featured photo: @katebecker.mn
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