Pet Care Essentials For The Wedding Day
Including your pet in your wedding can be one of the most joyful and memorable parts of the day. But behind every cute photo and adorable walk down the aisle is a lot of careful planning. Pets don’t know it’s your wedding—they just know when they’re overwhelmed, uncomfortable, or confused. That’s why having a clear plan for your pet’s care is essential.
From hiring a professional pet chaperone to packing the right gear, here’s everything you need to make sure your furry (or feathered) friend is safe, calm, and happy throughout your celebration.
Consider Hiring A Professional Pet Chaperone
One of the best ways to ensure your pet’s comfort—and reduce your own stress—is to hire a professional pet chaperone. These experienced specialists are like a wedding-day plus-one for your pet. They handle everything behind the scenes, allowing you and your guests to relax and be present.
I have a bunch of pet chaperones throughout different regions of Australia I'd personally recommend, so just message me or comment below if you need help finding one.
What a pet chaperone typically does:
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Transport to and from the venue
Whether your pet is coming from home, a boarding facility, or a hotel, a chaperone ensures safe, timely transport to and from the venue—no scrambling or car juggling required. -
Supervise and settle them on arrival
Upon arrival, the chaperone gives your pet time to settle, take a walk, and become familiar with the environment. They’ll find a calm space for them to rest before things get busy. -
Assist during photos and key moments
Want your pet in your portraits, first look, or aisle walk? A chaperone will make sure they’re clean, camera-ready, and well-positioned, then take them away once their job is done. -
Monitor their mood and comfort throughout
Trained to read animal behaviour, qualified pet chaperones are quick to spot signs of stress. They know when your pet needs a break, a quiet walk, or even to leave early. -
Provide all the essentials as needed
From water and waste bags to calming sprays or drops, toys, and treats, a professional will come prepared with everything your pet might need on the day. -
Step in if plans change
Rainy ceremony? Delayed photos? A chaperone is there to adapt, re-route, and keep your pet’s needs met even if the timeline shifts.
Hiring a pet chaperone is especially helpful if none of your guests want to miss a moment of the celebration—or if you’re not sure who can manage pet responsibilities on the day.
Assign A Dedicated Pet Handler (If Not Hiring A Pro)
If you’re not hiring a pet chaperone, it’s essential to assign someone specifically to your pet. This should be a person who knows your pet well (or has time to meet them beforehand), who won’t be heavily involved in the ceremony, and who feels confident handling your pet’s needs.
Clearly outline their responsibilities ahead of time, including feeding, walks, clean-up, and transport. Avoid assuming a bridesmaid, groomsman, or family member can do it “in between”—wedding days are busy, and pets deserve full attention too.
If you aren't planning to hire a pro, just check with your venue first, as some have this as a specific requirement in order for your pet to attend.
Pack A Pet Day Kit
A well-stocked wedding day pet kit is a must. Think of it as your pet’s version of an overnight bag or emergency kit.
Include:
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Food, treats, soft chews and collapsible water bowls
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Leash and harness or collar- here's one of my local favourites
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Poop bags or litter supplies
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Towels, wipes and grooming brush
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A familiar toy, blanket or bed
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Any medication or calming aids
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A backup outfit if they’re wearing special attire
If your pet is anxious, consider bringing a pheromone spray, calming drops, or whatever you’ve used successfully before.
Create A Comfort Zone At The Venue
Your pet needs a place to retreat when things get overwhelming. Ideally, this is a quiet, shaded space away from loud music, heavy foot traffic or flashing lights. Bring a portable crate, pop-up playpen, or comforting soft bedding to make it feel like home.
Introduce your pet to this spot early in the day, and return to it regularly so they associate it with rest and safety. A professional chaperone or designated handler can stay nearby to supervise and reassure them.
Know Their Limits (And Have An Exit Plan)
Weddings can be a lot. If your pet has noise sensitivity, health issues, or simply doesn’t do well with change, limit their participation. Maybe they’re only part of the portraits and then head home. Maybe they stay for the ceremony and leave before the party starts.
Always have a plan B. What happens if your dog panics or your bird becomes agitated? Who will take them home or to their accommodation? Having a handler—or even better, a chaperone—ready to act ensures your pet’s wellbeing comes first.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding day is full of emotion, celebration, and unpredictability. Including your pet in a way that feels safe and respectful to them (and stress-free for you) takes a little planning—but it’s absolutely worth it.
Hiring a professional pet chaperone is one of the kindest, smartest decisions you can make. They’re not just a babysitter—they’re your pet’s wedding-day advocate. And whether you hire a pro or assign someone close to you, making pet care a central part of your wedding prep helps ensure the day is joyful for everyone involved—including your furry guest of honour.