Pets at Weddings

When a couple’s pets are their fur-babies it is natural to want to include them in any family celebration. The Celebrants Network member, Sonia Collins takes us through the pros and cons of including your pet in your ceremony.

Celebrants are often asked if a pet can be included in the ceremony.

Most celebrants will be happy to help out but there are a few things to take into consideration including the logistics and the comfort and safety of all in attendance including the fur-baby.

Often the pet is a dog.  First find out if it is legal to take your pet to the ceremony venue ?  Choose carefully and you may be able to include them.

Dogs can make delightful ring bearers and make everyone smile as they walk down the aisle with the rings safely attached.  Just make sure your dog has the temperament to enjoy the occasion and that someone is tasked with taking care of the dog through the ceremony.

Horses too can be easily included in many ceremonies.  Again, with the right permissions a beautiful horse can provide a stunning entry for the groom or bride or a way for them to exit the ceremony together. Whether riding or being pulled in a carriage the couple can really enjoy their special horses being part of the big day.  Of course someone needs to be responsible for the horses while the ceremony is taking place and there needs to be a realistic assessment of the logistics. 

Cats are often not impressed with being away from home – so while they will no doubt stroll through the proceedings with tail in the air during a backyard wedding they are probably best left to snooze at home if your ceremony is elsewhere. They will of course settle on any beautiful fabric left in their domain.

What about the more exotic pets.  Couples need to think this through carefully before even mentioning it to their celebrant.  Of course we realise you think your pet eagle, cockatoo or budgie is part of the family but please don’t be surprised if your celebrant shudders and declines when you suggest the bird could sit on her shoulder and gaze into your eyes throughout the vows.   Reptiles and rodents are likely to elicit the same reaction. 

Of course your day would not be complete without your pets – so take a few minutes out together to enjoy some time with them and perhaps get some special photos to remind you of the pleasure they brought you. 

If you have a good story about a pet at a wedding why not add it to the comments and if you are looking for a celebrant to help you include your pet on your wedding day just chat to one of our helpful members of The Celebrants Network here https://www.celebrants.org.au/find/celebrant-directory