Why Your Dog May Prefer Not Attending Your Wedding
Why Your Dog May Prefer Not Attending Your Wedding
By CAROLINE LANGHAM
Why Your Dog May Prefer Not Attending Your Wedding
Quite often, we are asked by couples if they can bring their dog to their wedding.
As dog lovers, we love dogs – We have had dogs all our lives and have spent many years breeding, training and showing our beautiful golden retrievers. We spent the last 12 years with our lovely Alfie and Bess until losing Bess to cancer in February 2022. So we do understand what a massive part of your family they are and what a lovely “idea” it is on the surface to want to include your proud pooch on your wedding day.
However...
We are also super experienced at weddings – 10 years in, we think we have seen quite a few, both with and without your family dogs, and there are many reasons not to bring them too.
On balance, I wouldn’t make Alfie endure a wedding. I know he would much rather be up on the fells for a couple of hours, followed by a lovely long sleep in his bed, his dinner on time at 5:30, and then a tiddle before bedtime!
So is bringing your dog to your wedding right for your dog?
We understand how important it might feel to you both to have your dog at your wedding, as in your eyes, they are a big part of your family. I understand that. But after the initial excitement, have you considered how your furry friend might feel once all the fuss has died down?
Most dogs love meeting and greeting people and getting a little fuss and attention. But they are used to their routines, and if that includes napping for 8 hours, or hiking for 8 hours, then that is what they are used to and probably would prefer doing. Weddings are long days, and dogs would rather be elsewhere after that initial 30 minutes.
So many times, I have seen dogs paraded out for photos, coerced with a million treats, shouted at, tugged at and pulled at to get that vital wedding photo. Whilst some dogs are calm enough and tolerant of their humans, the majority would rather not be there.
Timing Is Everything
Most weddings will take the entire day, what with your prep, hair, makeup, dressing, eating, and travelling. You already have so much to think about and consider – Maybe having one less thing to worry about (your dog and his needs) will help you too???
But if you are still not convinced, be aware that we can at times be a little selfish by nature and sometimes only think about our own needs, especially when it comes to our wedding day, but to keep our dogs happy, you must be mindful of your dog’s needs too.
Why the change in Dog Policy?
We have seen too many confused, stressed and unhappy dogs, and while some are fine with it, this doesn’t prevent the amount of organisation and stress involved,
Cote How weddings are stress-free, easy-going and relaxed with a natural and seemingly effortless flow. But behind this effortlessness is a lot of organisation, which we work hard to achieve. We want to focus on you to ensure you get the best from your day.
Here are a few things to consider…
- Dogs are not allowed in the house, so where will the dog go if the weather is inclement?
- We have witnessed many occasions when a dog has held up proceedings. At one point, Cumbria Registration Services banned dogs for this reason.
- The mad panic for scissors trying to retrieve the rings from a bow that is double-knotted around its neck.
- Muddy paw prints are all over the bride’s dress.
- Howling dogs because they don’t want to be tied up outside.
Dog Sitter
We recommend either leaving your dog at home with a dog sitter or, if you are away on holiday in the Lakes, employ a dog sitter to come to your local accommodation for the day.
It might be a friend or a professional dog sitter, but it is always better to do a dry run for a couple of hours first, so your pet knows they will reunite with you later.
Arrange A Photoshoot
Although we no longer allow dogs at weddings, you could still meet your dog walker/sitter for photos down by the Lakeshore post-ceremony while your guests enjoy a post-wedding drink on the terrace up at Cote How.
Professional Dog Walker
Consider using a professional dog walker who is employed to come and collect your dog before your wedding, take it for a lovely walk, and then bring it back to you after the wedding. This works perfectly if you are planning one of our elopement or micro weddings which only last 2-4 hours.
Overnight Kennels
Consider that your lovely dog may prefer to snuggle down and relax for the rest of the day while you and your guests continue your celebrations in style. Find a dog sitter who can look after your dog overnight for you. That way, you know they are safe and happy, and you can focus on your celebrations.
There are a variety of local dog services providing pick-up and drop-off arrangements and can kennel overnight, chaperone your dog at your wedding, or simply take them for a walk.
If you are being whisked away on your honeymoon straight from your wedding venue, think about the logistics and who can you trust to look after your dog while you are away. Maybe you have arranged boarding kennels. Who will be taking your dog to the kennels for you, and what will they need to pack?
HOW TO INCLUDE YOUR PET AT YOUR WEDDING
… without them being there in the flesh…
- include them in your save the dates
- include them in your venue decor – photos, name tags, themed favours
- add a cardboard cut out of them and stand it in the ceremony or in the reception
- add them as cake toppers for your cake
- add a photo of them with absent friends on the bar
- mention them in your speeches
I hope you have enjoyed reading this blog. If you have any comments please add them below I would love to hear from you.
There are more wedding tips here:
Choosing the best wedding photographer for you
How to decorate a Rustic Wedding Barn
How to book a Virtual Show Around
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Useful Links:
Ambleside Dog Walkers
Barking Mad Lakes
Just Love Dogs – Dog Grooming and Dog Walking
