Times Now Digital
Updated Dec 2, 2023 | 06:03 PM IST
If you are a pawrent and want your four-legged companion at your wedding, here are a few tips that you must keep in mind this wedding season … Read More
Alia Bhatt with her ‘cat of honour’, Edward.
It is no longer unusual to see pets attend their human’s wedding, decked in a matching tux, bow ready to have a lot of fun. Frequent canine duties also include sitting by the pheras and being included in the mandatory Insta-worthy pre-wedding shoot. While it may seem all hunky-dory, there is a lot that goes on behind the scene to craft the perfect pet-friendly wedding.
Pet-Friendly Weddings In India
India is adding more and more pet parents into its fold, with some reports pegging the number of pet dogs in the country to 19 million. According to the India International Pet Trade Fair, the pet market in India is projected to experience a CAGR of 20% from 2021 to 2026, reaching INR 1.3 billion (approximately $23.6 million) by 2026.
And pet parents make no qualms about ensuring their four-legged companion’s presence on what is presumably the biggest day of their lives. Pratyush Khanna, a Mumbai-based lawyer, whose family dog Oscar made it to his wedding in Goa, says, “I could not imagine my wedding without him. He has been an intricate part of our lives and he deserved to be with us for our wedding. It’s funny that he really stole the limelight from me!”
And wedding organisers are also gearing to handle more weddings that have puppers involved. Tushar Singh Malik, a Delhi-based wedding organiser who runs Wed Lab Events, shares, “We have been getting more requests to look at venues that allow pets to be a part of the wedding procession and ceremonies. While many venues don’t allow animals out of general safety concerns, we have tied up with a few venues in Delhi-NCR and Uttarakhand for the same. It is an important day for the family and pets are as much a part of the celebration, so we feel it is important to accommodate their requests.” It is for this reason that many wedding venues have also started offering pet-friendly accommodations and pet-friendly catering options.
Tips For The Perfect Pet-Inclusive Wedding
Offering the right kind of space is also necessary to ensure there is no chaos, especially for people who are not as pet-inclined as you. “It’s best to avoid having lots of dogs in queues or large crowds, as this can be stressful for the doggies. To do this, you might need to provide people with arrival times and space out facilities, such as food/drink stands and toilets, to prevent bottlenecks. It’s also important to make sure that all dog owners know to bring their pooches on a short leash, and to keep them under control at all times so everyone can stay safe and have fun,” she adds.
Here are a few other tips:
Before the big day, ensure your pet is comfortable in various environments. Gradual exposure to wedding-related elements like music, crowds, and attire will help them feel at ease. You can also do-away with loud dhols and firecrackers for your pet’s comfort.
Consider adorning your pet with a charming outfit that compliments your wedding theme. Ensure it’s comfortable, and introduce it to your pet in advance to avoid any last-minute discomfort.
Designate a trusted friend or family member as the pet handler. This person can take care of your pet’s needs, ensuring they are calm and happy throughout the celebration.
Decide how you want your pet to be involved in the ceremony – whether it’s walking down the aisle, wearing a ring, or simply being present. Practise these elements beforehand to gauge their comfort level.
Choose decorations that are safe for pets. Avoid toxic plants and opt for pet-friendly floral arrangements. Be mindful of candles and other decor items that could pose a risk.
Create a quiet space for your pet to retreat when they need a break from the festivities. Provide water, treats, and familiar items to make them feel secure.