Including Your Pet in Your Calgary Wedding: Tips and Services for Pet-Friendly Celebrations
For many couples, pets are an important part of the family, and leaving them out of such a significant event as a wedding might feel incomplete. Fortunately, many Calgary venues and vendors now offer pet-friendly options, making it easier to include your furry friends in the celebration. Whether you want your pet to walk down the aisle, pose for photos, or simply be part of the atmosphere, here’s how to make it happen.
How to Include Pets in Your Wedding Ceremony
1. Roles for Your Pet
There are many ways to involve your pet in your wedding:
Ring Bearer or Flower Pet: Train your pet to walk down the aisle as a ring bearer or flower pet. This can be a show-stopping and heartwarming moment, but it requires some preparation to ensure your pet is comfortable with crowds and noise.
Pet of Honor: Some couples have their pets join them at the altar, symbolizing their role in the family.
Pet Photoshoot: If your pet isn't comfortable with the crowd, consider having them present just for photos. This way, they can still be part of the day without the stress of a larger audience.
2. Pet-Friendly Venues
Not all wedding venues allow pets, so it’s essential to check ahead of time if your chosen location is pet-friendly. Fortunately, Calgary has several options:
Outdoor Venues: Outdoor locations like farms, ranches, and parks are more likely to welcome pets. These venues also provide plenty of space for pets to roam without feeling overwhelmed.
Pet-Friendly Hotels: Some Calgary hotels that host weddings, like The Fairmont Palliser or Hotel Arts, offer pet-friendly accommodations, making it easier for your pet to be a part of your wedding.
3. Pet Safety and Comfort
It’s essential to prioritize your pet's comfort and safety throughout the day:
Practice: Get your pet used to the wedding environment by visiting the venue beforehand and rehearsing walking down the aisle.
Hydration & Shade: Ensure your pet has a shaded area to rest, plenty of water, and a quiet space if they become overwhelmed by the noise and crowd.
Dress Comfortably: If you plan on dressing your pet in a bow tie, flower collar, or other accessory, ensure that it’s comfortable and doesn’t restrict movement.
Local Calgary Pet Sitters and Handlers for Weddings
Having a designated pet handler can take the pressure off the couple and ensure that the pet is well-cared for throughout the day. Calgary has several professionals who offer pet sitting and handling services specifically for weddings:
Paw Butler: Specializes in wedding day pet care. They help with transportation, feeding, and entertaining your pet while you focus on your big day.
Suns out Paws Out: Offers wedding pet handling packages that include walks, supervision, and even dressing your pet if they have a specific role in the ceremony.
Wedding Day Paws: This service ensures your pet is ready for their big moment, whether it’s walking down the aisle or posing for photos. They offer transportation, coordination with vendors, and post-wedding care.
Tips for Keeping Your Pet Comfortable During the Big Day
1. Hire a Pet Sitter
If your pet is going to be a part of your wedding day, consider hiring a professional pet sitter to take care of them before, during, and after the ceremony. This ensures that someone is focused entirely on their well-being while you enjoy your day without any added stress.
2. Plan for Breaks
Weddings can be overwhelming for pets, especially if they aren’t used to large crowds. Make sure your pet has access to a quiet space where they can rest away from the excitement. This could be a room, a pet-friendly corner, or a quiet area outdoors.
3. Bring Familiar Items
Help reduce your pet’s anxiety by bringing along familiar items, such as their favorite bed, blanket, or toy. These comforting objects can help them feel more at ease in a new and busy environment.
4. Know Your Pet’s Limits
Not all pets enjoy being in the spotlight. If your pet seems stressed or anxious, it might be best to limit their involvement in the ceremony and simply include them in the photos. Alternatively, you can have them join only for a small portion of the day.
Including your pet in your Calgary wedding can make the day even more special and memorable. Whether they’re walking down the aisle, posing for photos, or simply providing a calming presence, pets add a personal and heartwarming touch to the celebration. With proper planning, professional pet services, and a few thoughtful considerations, your furry friend can be a wonderful part of your wedding day.
