Dogs may be man’s best friend, but does yours mesh with your wedding day plans? If you’re looking to include your fur baby into your big day, there are a lot of things to consider. At A Touch of Bliss, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to furry friends, and we’ve compiled the biggest wedding day dos and don’ts of including Fido and Fifi.

DO check your venue’s pet policy.

It might not be a big deal for a backyard wedding, but venues like hotels and country clubs often have specific policies when it comes to pets. If Fido isn’t welcome in your ceremony or reception space, never fear. You can pay homage to your fur baby in other ways, like referencing him in your decor.

DO consider transportation.

You’ll have a lot on your mind when wedding day rolls around. If you’ve gotten the green light from your venue, make sure you have a specific family member, friend, or pet sitter willing to chauffeur Fluffy to the right place and back home at the end of the day.

DON’T forget to consider your pet’s personality.

Your four-pawed pal may be good with people, but does she get anxious or overexcited in crowds? Will she overheat at an outdoor venue? When deciding which parts (if any) of your wedding day to physically include your pet, make sure you consider all parts of her personality!

DO pack a pet emergency kit.

When incorporating animals into your wedding day, make sure to pack some essentials just in case. We recommend plenty of water and some treats for bribing. If you’re planning on using accessories for Fido, such as flowers or a bow tie, pack a backup as a precaution. Finally, throw in some waste bags and some wet wipes just in case your furry friend has a little too much fun.

DON’T restrict your options!

Consider getting those photo moments early in the day, before the wedding whirlwind really sets in. Try incorporating Fido into your getting ready photos or your first look, rather than using him during your actual ceremony. This way, you get that quiet time with your fur baby, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about for the rest of the day.