Photography: Carolina Photosmith
Whether your pet plays a starring role in the wedding or is just a witness to your love, it would always be a good idea to have them there with you. But before you start buying them bridal attire, there are a few things to consider before inviting them your celebrations.
Do consider your pet's temperament
Not every pet has predictably perfect temper. Even Cesar Millan's dogs have bad days. So ask yourself if your pet will be comfortable around your guests, and is obedient and well-behaved enough to last through the ceremony. Even though they aced the dress rehearsal, there's no guarantee your pet will behave exactly the same on wedding day. Perhaps a few obedience training classes may help.
Do ensure the venue is pet-friendly
Not many places in Singapore are pet-friendly, even if outdoors. Do let the venue operator know of your intentions and allow them time to make appropriate accommodations, like a comfortable holding area for your fur baby, plus sufficient food and water provisions.
Do appoint a chaperone
This person is crucial in ensuring that your wedding will go ahead without a glitch. You don't want your great dame leaping all over your guests! Ideally, the person is very familiar with your pet like a family member or pet-sitter. This person could walk down the aisle with your pooch or carry your bunny rabbit, which is a nice touch.
Do let guests know
Some guests are highly fearful of certain animals like cats and dogs. So do give them heads up that your furry friend will make an appearance at your wedding. This includes the photographer who must be comfortable working with animals. This also helps them plan in advance how to best capture your pet in wedding photos.
Don't let your pet stay up too late
Try not to alter too much of your pet's daily habits as this can cause stress to the animal and result in sickness or strange behaviour. Set a curfew for them to be sent back home by cocktail hour.
Don't expect it to go smoothly
Just remember, no wedding goes completely according to plan and things may frustrate you, like your pooch pooping on the carpet, or licking cream off your cake. Haha! So do have a sense of humour about it, expect the unexpected, and don't cry over spilt cake.
Don't jeapordise safety for style
If you are planning to dress up your pet, please be sure of a few things. First, the outfit should fit properly and doesn't constrict walking, breathing or sitting. If your fur baby is struggling or shows signs of dislike and discomfort, do not force it as that's harmful and grounds for animal cruelty. Ensure that any accessories, like a bowtie, won't come loose and pose a choking hazard. Be sure to check if any flowers or plants used at the venue is not toxic to your pet.
