6 tips to include the dog in the wedding ceremony

Considered part of the family, Pets have gained prominence in intimate wedding ceremonies. After all, if all the loved ones are present at the event, why leave the pets out of it?

It is understandable why so many couples have already adhered to this trend, since the participation of dogs adds a lot of tenderness and lightness to the ceremony. However, including them in the event requires some care. We spoke to experts to gather tips that ensured everything turned out exactly as you dreamed.

1. Evaluate the animal’s behavior

To participate in a wedding, the animal needs to be trained. This is the only way it will respond to commands even in front of a large audience with lots of visual and sound stimuli. “Some animals already have a more social nature. Evaluate how your dog behaves in unfamiliar surroundings and with lots of people. It’s important to make sure it won’t be an unpleasant experience for him,” says trainer Fernando Costa.

Puppies, no way! In general, animals from 1 year and a half have a calmer behavior. Puppies tend to be more restless and rambunctious.

2. Check the site rules

Most churches do not allow pets. Check in advance the rules of the place chosen for the ceremony. “Plan the event ensuring that the ceremony location has a quiet resting area for the animal, so that it only leaves when it enters, minimizing stress”, recalls the trainer Mariana Godoy.

3. Define how the pet’s participation will be

The animal can appear in different ways in the ceremony. The most common way is for the dog to act as a page and enter with the rings attached to the collar or in a box on the back. He can also receive the role of accompanying the flower girl or even the bride herself.

4. Do training to prepare the animal

The trainer suggests that owners take the dog to busy and noisy environments, such as a free fair, to train the grand entrance. “It is also important to take him to the ceremony site to get used to the environment. If possible, take him to the place and simulate in advance the route he will take”, advises Fernando.

5. Hire a nanny

The animal will need a sitter during the event. The person in charge should be totally responsible for the pet, offer him water, make sure he doesn’t eat anything inappropriate and play with him to distract him. Ideally, it should be the trainer or someone trusted by the family, with whom the animal is already familiar.

6. Take him home as soon as possible

“The animal must be taken away right after its participation and the photo session. The party environment can become very stressful for him. Therefore, ensure that a trusted person is responsible for taking you home at the end of the ceremony”, advises Mariana