How to include your dog in your elopement
I love — love — when couples ask if they can bring their dog to their elopement. As a dog mom myself, the answer is always a resounding yes! Dogs are valuable family members and they stand by their humans’ sides through so many major milestones in life, so it’s really heartwarming to see couples who want to include their pup in their big day.
Making the decision to do it is easy; it’s the how to include your dog in your elopement that gets tricky. This is such a deeply personal experience and it requires some extra planning and special logistics. Having said that, though, it is entirely possible to elope with your dog in tow. Let’s dive into what that could look like for you, as well as some tips and several things you should know and consider.
What to consider when planning a dog friendly elopement
Is your elopement destination dog friendly?
Some destinations are significantly more dog friendly than others. If your pooch is definitely tagging along, your location should be one of the first and most important decisions you make.
You also have to think well beyond the main destination. Most national and state parks welcome dogs, but in many (like Saguaro National Park in Arizona), they aren’t permitted on trails. There are exceptions, however. Shenandoah National Park is one of the few that welcomes dogs on many trails throughout the park.
Also, keep in mind that even in the most dog-friendly places, some activities and tours may not allow pets (think off-roading tours, visiting a hot spring, or riding in a hot air balloon).
Before you can decide how to include your dog in your elopement, you have to figure out where it’s going to happen in the first place! Thinking about these various scenarios as one bigger picture can help you make that decision.
How much experience does your dog have hiking or walking on a leash?
One thing is certain: regardless of the elopement destination you pick, your dog will need to be leashed. If he or she is used to running free or simply doesn’t respond well to being on a leash, that should be taken under consideration. Try to keep your dog leashed for the shortest amount of time possible, or look for a location that has a secure, fenced space for your pup to roam safely (a private vacation rental or an exceptionally dog-friendly hotel, perhaps).
You should also consider your dog’s hiking ability and experience level. Your wedding day is not the ideal time to embark on a five-mile trek with your pup if he or she has never really hiked. The trail’s popularity plays a role here, too. Even a dog with plenty of hiking experience may spook on a crowded, narrow trail — especially if there are other dogs.
Does your dog get along well with other people?
Along those same lines, take an honest look at how your dog responds to other humans. At some point during your elopement day, someone else will likely need to keep an eye on your pup, even if for only a few minutes while you exchange vows or get yourselves situated for a shot.
How might your dog behave and listen? The answer can help you decide exactly how to include your dog in your elopement, or if you even should.
Will you have someone there to help with your pet?
As I touched on, there’s an excellent chance that your dog won’t be able to tag along with you to every single place and activity during your elopement. The two of you will also be busy on the day of getting married, so you won’t have your hands or attention free at every moment.
These things are manageable, but it’s a good idea to consider whether you’ll have anyone who can help. Not only can it help you dial in a location, but it can also help you plan your wedding day activities and what to do after your elopement.
One specific thing to think about that’s extremely easy to overlook is just how dog-friendly your accommodations are. If you plan an activity or two that isn’t dog-friendly, it’s important to be sure that your hotel or Airbnb will allow your pup to stay behind unattended.
When is the best time of year for a dog friendly elopement?
The best time for a dog friendly elopement varies significantly depending on the location. If you’re eloping in southern Arizona or coastal Alabama, for example, summer is the absolute worst time, when it’s oppressively hot (and humid, in Alabama). However, in the northern mountainous regions of either of those states, summer would actually be a fantastic time to elope with your dog.
The biggest thing to keep in mind is your dog’s safety and comfort. Whether it’s hot or cold, it’s important that you be able to keep him or her cool or warm enough, protect their paws, and offer plenty of water (and treats!). Also, be sure to factor in any intense activities you’ll be doing, such as a long hike.
Best ways to include your pet in your elopement
Beyond including him or her in your wedding photos, there are so many fun, creative ways to include your pet in your elopement!
Have him or her involved in getting-ready portraits.
Involve your pup directly in the ceremony! They can be a ring-bearer or flower girl, or simply stand at your side.
Have your pet sign your marriage license (this is absolutely a “thing,” but note that it’s only legal in some places with slightly more relaxed wedding laws, such as Colorado).
Bring your dog along for your full elopement day to tag along hiking and on any other adventures. Just remember to Incorporate dog-friendly locations and activities!
Include your pet in wedding day details, such as in your elopement announcements, as a cake topper, or on the bar menu for your reception.
Dog-friendly elopements may be more common, but there are many great ways to include your cats, too!
Best locations for dog friendly elopements
Looking for some location inspiration? These places are all exceptionally welcoming to dogs!
Most dog friendly national parks:
Acadia, Maine
Congaree, South Carolina
Cuyahoga Valley, Ohio
Grand Canyon
Great Sand Dunes, Colorado
Indiana Dunes
New River Gorge, West Virginia
Petrified Forest, Arizona
Shenandoah, Virginia
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore, Michigan
White Sands, New Mexico
Wrangell-St. Elias, Alaska
Yosemite
Most dog friendly cities:
Sedona, AZ
Page, AZ
Flagstaff, AZ
San Diego, CA
Asheville, NC
Moab, UT
Bend, OR
Portland, OR
Oregon Coast
Denver, CO
Colorado Springs, CO
Seattle, WA
Leavenworth, WA
Mount Baker, WA
Other dog friendly locations to check out:
State parks
Bureau of Land Management (public land)
National forests
What to pack for your dog friendly elopement
To ensure things go as smoothly as possible and that your pup is comfortable and happy during your elopement, there are a handful of things you should bring.
Food and water bowls, with extra food and water for while you’re out and about
Plenty of treats
A towel, blanket, or something else that can serve as a makeshift dog bed (this will come in especially handy during your ceremony, where there will be more idle time)
Leash and collar with identification
Cute wedding day props for your pet to wear, such as a fancy bandanna, bow tie, or faux flowers to tuck into his or her collar
Comfort items based on the weather, which could include a doggie sweater/vest, paw protection, or extra blankets
Depending on your lodging, you may also want to bring a crate or kennel (if your pet will be left unattended)
Pet waste bags
Speaking of waste, I always remind my couples how important it is to practice Leave No Trace principles, but that’s even more true when it comes to dog friendly elopements. In order to keep these wild, adventurous places pristine, we must all do our parts to clean up after ourselves and not leave anything behind.
Ready to plan your dog friendly elopement?
As I mentioned earlier, I’m a pet mom myself. I truly understand how important it is to include your furry friends in your big day and I just adore animals, so I’m always happy to help watch (hold and pet!) them during your elopement. Whether you’re looking for location ideas or want some tips on how to include your pet in your wedding, I’d love to chat!
