For many modern couples, a pet is not just an animal. They are family. They are part of your everyday life, your routines, your comfort and your joy. So when you are planning a heartfelt, relaxed ceremony, it is only natural to wonder how they might be part of your day too.
If you are dreaming of a pet friendly wedding, there are plenty of meaningful and practical ways to include the animals you love, while keeping their wellbeing front and centre.
Dogs as ring bearers and aisle companions
Dogs are the most common and often the easiest pets to involve. A calm, confident dog can walk down the aisle with a trusted handler, carrying the rings in a small pouch or simply wearing a floral collar or bow tie.
Some couples choose to walk in together with their dog, which instantly sets a relaxed and joyful tone. Others prefer their dog to make a short appearance just before the vows. For couples planning a pet friendly wedding, venues and timing can usually be arranged to keep things smooth and stress free.
Signing the certificate with a paw print
One of the most heartwarming ideas is having your dog add a paw print to the marriage certificate. Using pet safe ink, this can be done calmly after the ceremony or woven into the legal moment itself.
It is playful, emotional and deeply symbolic, especially for couples who see their pet as part of their chosen family. It also creates a keepsake that feels truly personal and often becomes a favourite memory of the day.
Including cats and quieter animals
Not every pet wants to be surrounded by people, music and excitement. Cats, rabbits and other small animals often prefer a quieter role, and that is absolutely okay.
You might include them through words rather than presence. Mentioning them in the ceremony script, including an illustration on your order of service, or referencing them in your vows can be just as meaningful. A thoughtfully planned pet friendly wedding does not require every animal to be physically there to be honoured.
Horses, alpacas and rural companions
For countryside venues and family farms, larger animals can play a gentle part too. Horses might appear in wedding photos or accompany you for a short walk after the ceremony. Alpacas and goats are increasingly popular for relaxed outdoor celebrations and add a sense of warmth and joy.
As always, the focus should be on welfare. Short appearances, familiar handlers and plenty of calm space are essential. When planned with care, these moments often become the stories people remember most from a pet friendly wedding.
Planning with care and kindness
Including a pet in your ceremony is not about novelty. It is about reflecting real life and real love. Clear roles, backup plans and realistic expectations make all the difference.
Choosing suppliers and venues who genuinely support a pet friendly wedding will help ensure your day feels calm, inclusive and aligned with your values.
A ceremony that reflects your family
At its heart, a wedding ceremony is about belonging. If your pet is part of your home, your routines and your love story, including them can feel incredibly grounding and authentic.
With thoughtful planning, your ceremony can be emotional, gently playful and completely your own. Fur, feathers, paws and all.
Enquire here if you’re ready to start planning your perfect wedding.