According to recent statistics, more couples are living together before tying the knot. While this might not be surprising to some, it does create some unique situations. For one, these couples are also delaying having children for various reasons. Instead, most will often adopt or purchase a pet. Dogs and cats have long been the loyal companions of families throughout history. Nowadays, however, people tend to treat these furry friends with a bit more respect and a lot more attention. Naturally, this also means couples want to involve their pets in their weddings.

Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy to bring an animal into a human event like a wedding. If you’re trying to get creative with how you work your pet into your big day, consider a few of these clever options.

A Slight Impression

In recent years, couples have found all sorts of unique ways to work their pets into their wedding ceremonies. One of the most popular choices with dogs is to have these pups act as ring bearers. Though the idea of a cute doggie strutting down the aisle with the rings might be absolutely adorable, the reality is a bit more complex. You need to train your dog well in order for it to not get distracted by all the stimuli at the ceremony. In addition, the venue you have chosen might be pretty strict when it comes to pets.

To bypass all of this, you may need to think about how you can include your dog without worrying about it relieving itself near the altar. Once exciting option couples have been toying with is displaying an image of the pet on the pillow used to deliver the rings to the happy couple. It might not be the same as seeing your four-legged friend trot up to you during your big moment, but simply seeing the happy face on the pillow might be enough to warm your heart and make you feel like your pup was involved.

Furry-Friend Favors

Another great way to involve your pet without bringing it to the wedding is with your favors. Not all couples decide to go with favors, so this advice is primarily geared toward those who already budgeted for the expense. If you’re stuck on what favors to use, why not think about something that allows you to include your pet? Some couples have achieved this goal by offering candies like M&Ms. Many companies offer personalized M&Ms, meaning you can have these gifts made with an image of your beloved pet displayed on them.

Depending on your budget, you may also want to get a bit more creative with how you involve your pet. If you want to give out favor bags to guests when they leave, consider including a little note from your pet. You can be silly with this, using a message like “Thanks for watching my parents get married! Woof!” or something equally as cute. You may even want to include a little stuffed animal that resembles your pet, which is a sweet way of including your pet and giving out a fun little favor to all of your guests at once.

A Little Piece of Your Heart

Finally, you don’t need to turn including your pet into a big spectacle. You and your significant other might feel comforted by finding a little gesture only the two of you will appreciate. One couple reportedly took one of their dog’s favorite treats; broke it in half, and each carried a piece with them throughout the events of their wedding. This is a subtle way to feel connected to your pet when it isn’t around.

There are many ways to include your pet in your wedding without your pet being present. Explore your options and discover an idea that helps you find the best balance.