Shaadi Shenanigans: How to Plan the Purr-fect Pet-Friendly Wedding

The Growing Trend of Weddings with Dogs

Did you know that almost 80% of pet parents in urban India now consider their furry friends as important members of the family? No wonder then that more and more millennial couples are opting for weddings with dogs.

Whether it's a royal Rajasthani destination wedding or a chic city ceremony, Indian weddings across regions and communities are going to the dogs (in the best pawsible way!). From dressing up dogs at weddings in traditional wear to making them part of pre-wedding shoots and Mehendi decor, creative couples are finding cute ways to give their pets VIP status.

Benefits of Including Dogs in Wedding Ceremony

Still on the fence about whether to have your weddings with dogs? Here are just a few of the benefits of having your fur baby by your side as you take the pheras:

• Reduces pre-wedding jitters and helps you stay calm
• Makes for priceless candid photos and videos
• Entertains baraatis and adds an element of fun
• Creates unique memories to last a lifetime
• Reinforces your bond with your pet

Just like the human wedding party, your pooch needs some prep to be D-Day ready! Start with basic training—sit, stay, come—so they can obey any commands during the ceremony.

Dress rehearsals are a must. Get your furry ring bearer used to any outfits or accessories in advance. A floral dog mala or customised safa will make for great photo-ops!

Make sure any dog outfits are comfortable and weather-appropriate. Stick to light, breathable fabrics and avoid anything too fussy or restrictive.

It's also a good idea to do a few trial runs at the venue so your pet can get familiar with the space, smells, and sounds.

Pet-Friendly Wedding Ideas: Roles for Your Dog

From the engagement to the reception, there are so many fun ways to have weddings with dogs! Here are a few of our favourite ideas:

• 'Save the Date' star: Let your pooch announce the wedding with a cute sign for a social media post or shoot
• Proposal accomplice: Tie the ring to your doggo's collar for a surprise proposal
• Floral pup: Dress up your pet in matching floral decor for the Mehendi or Haldi ceremony
• Furry bridal party: Include your pet in wedding party photos, dressed in a mini sherwani or lehenga
• Dog 'baraat': Have your pooch lead the groom's procession in a fancy piece of traditional wear
• Canine usher: Have your doggo 'greet' guests with a customised bandana or bow-tie

Choosing a Pet-Friendly Wedding Venue

One of the keys to a successful dog-friendly wedding is picking the right venue for weddings with dogs. Look for outdoor or open-air spaces that give your pet room to move around. Lawns, beaches, farmhouses, and backyard settings tend to be more pet-friendly.

Check the venue's pet policy in advance and make sure they're okay with your fur baby being on the premises. Some venues may have size, breed, or number restrictions.

Also consider the weather and make sure there will be shaded or air-conditioned areas for your pet to retreat to if needed. Avoid venues with too many stairs or obstacles that could be tricky for your dog to navigate.

Tips for Managing Dogs at Weddings

With a little bit of preparation, you can ensure that your pet has a comfortable and stress-free experience at your wedding. Here are some tips:

• Appoint a designated pet-sitter (a family member or friend your dog is familiar with) to be in charge of your dogs at weddings
• Prepare an emergency kit with your pet's food, treats, water bowl, leash, waste bags, toys and any medication
• Schedule regular potty and exercise breaks for your dog in a quiet area away from the crowds
• Keep your dog away from any human food, drinks or decor items that could be harmful if ingested
• Have a plan B ready in case your pet gets overwhelmed and needs to leave the festivities early