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Weddings are happy events filled with love, laughter and cherished memories. For many pet parents, including their beloved furry friends in the festivities is a non-negotiable. Pets are definitely part of the family! However, making sure your pet stays safe during your wedding requires a lot of thought and planning. 

From picking the right pet venues to steering away from harmful foods and decorations and having emergency strategies in place, there are several measures you can take to ensure your pet’s well being and happiness on your special day. 

Here’s a detailed guide to assist you in keeping everyone, including your beloved dog in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra or Adelaide, safe and happy on your wedding day.

Keeping Your Pet Safe at the Venue

The initial step towards ensuring your pets safety at your wedding involves selecting a venue that welcomes pets. Not all venues are equipped to cater to pets. It’s crucial to communicate your intentions with the venue coordinator. 

Here are some important factors to consider:

• Space and Setting: Make sure that there is enough room for your pet to move around freely without feeling restricted. Be on the lookout for any dangers such as busy streets, bodies of water or areas where your pet could potentially wander off.

• Pet Friendly Features: Some venues provide amenities catering to pets such as designated play zones, water stations for pets, and shaded areas for relaxation. These can really help keep your furry friend comfortable all day long.

• Quiet Spaces: Pets can get overwhelmed at weddings with all the noise and crowds. It’s a good idea to have a spot where they can take a break if needed.

Pet Friendly Food and Decorations

Weddings are full of treats and pretty decorations, but not everything is safe for pets. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Food Dangers: Many common wedding foods are harmful to pets like chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic and alcohol. Keep these away from your pets’ reach. If guests want to treat your pet, offer them a list of safe treats or snacks they can offer.
• Decoration Hazards: Certain decorations can be risky for pets. Balloons can be choking hazards if swallowed. Candles and flames are dangerous too as pets might knock them over accidentally. Some flowers, such as lilies, are toxic to cats. Opt for pet-safe blooms instead. Be cautious with anything that could harm your furry friend.

Emergency Procedures and Contacts for Pet Related Situations

Accidents can happen despite all your preparedness. It’s important to have an emergency plan in place to provide peace of mind and be prepared for any event that may occur. 

• Vet Contact Information; Make sure you have the contact details of a nearby vet and the nearest emergency animal clinic on hand. Share this info with members of your party and any pet caretakers. 

• First Aid Kit: Put together a first aid kit for your pet containing essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any necessary medications. Get acquainted with basic first aid techniques for pets in case something happens.

• Pet Caretaker: Hiring a pet sitter or handler can be a great help during any event. They can take care of your pet, attend to their needs, and handle any emergencies while you’re busy with your guests or festivities. Ensure they know your emergency plan and have access to all necessary contacts and supplies.

Additional Tips for a Pet-Safe Wedding

In addition to the points we outlined above, here are some extra tips to ensure your pet’s safety and well being on your special day:

• Training and Familiarity

If you want your furry friend to have a role in the wedding (like being a ring bearer), it’s important to practise with them beforehand. Introduce them to the venue, the people, and any new situations they might encounter on the day.

• Hydration and Comfort

Make sure your pet always has access to water and a cosy spot to relax. Weddings can be long affairs so it’s important to keep your pet hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.

• Pet Outfits

If you’re planning on dressing your pet up in special attire, ensure that it’s comfy and doesn’t hinder their movement. Steer clear of accessories that could be swallowed or pose a choking hazard. 

Summing Up

Not having your pet with you on your wedding day can make the day feel incomplete for many pet parents. They’re part of the family and can bring a heartwarming element to your special day, as this recent Mornington Peninsula wedding with a dog shows.

However, it’s important to consider their safety and well-being during the festivities. By selecting a pet friendly location, steering clear of foods and decorations, and having an emergency plan in place, you can guarantee that your four legged companion stays safe and content. 

With some planning and thoughtfulness, your pet can partake in the celebrations with you, creating memories that will stand the test of time, especially if you get a good pet photographer to solidify those memories for you.

So go ahead, make your wedding a dream family affair and celebrate it with your loved ones – both human and pet alike.