If you have a furry friend that is apart of your little family – of course you would want them to be apart of this special time in your lives. Being engaged is a huge milestone for many couples and involving your pet can be really important to many.

Celebrating with your pet can be an amazing opportunity and certainly doesn’t come along very often. Many couples go back-and-forth on whether or not they want to bring their pet(s) along, but I promise there are a few things you can do in order to prepare them for your session.

Consider Bringing a Friend Along

One of the biggest concerns that most couples have about bringing their furry friend along is that they won’t be well behaved or have to much energy. Understandably, it can be hard to manage your pet while trying to focus on getting amazing photos.

However, you could ask a friend or family member to come along to your session to help wrangle them. Having someone available to hold your pet will allow them the opportunity to sniff around and get some energy out. Then when they are needed for specific shots you can bring them in quickly and hand them off again!

Consider the Location

When it comes to bringing your pet along to your engagement session you will want to make sure to pick a location that allows dogs. You can usually find this information online.

Additionally, picking a location that allows you to have the opportunity to play with them is important. A location that has hiking trails, a dog park or place for them to swim can be a great way to ensure they are entertained and having fun.

Pets generally do better in locations that they are familiar with. Choosing a location they have been to before or spend a lot of time at can be beneficial to keeping them calm and relaxed.

Utilizing your house or backyard can be a great option too. Some couples choose to start their session at their house and then pick a secondary location to go to after they get photos with their pet. Having your session in your furry friends safe place can help reduce their stress. Also, you don’t have to worry about packing up all their things and potentially forgetting something!

Plan Activities for Your Furry Friend

The best photos are candid and come from fun interactive moments. Planning activities to do with your pet during your session is a must! This will help ensure that they stay engaged. Make sure to bring along their favorite toys and think about what your pet enjoys doing.

This goes hand-in-hand with selecting the location. As mentioned above selecting a location that has several activities for your dog is ideal.

How to Prepare Ahead of Time

There are several things you can do to prepare your pet ahead of time. Sometimes getting them out before hand and exercising them will help bring their energy levels down. Helping them to be more relaxed and calm during your session.

Make sure to pack all of the things your pet will potentially need during your session. Think about what activities you have planned and pack accordingly. Also – make sure to bring extra sets of clothes with you in case things get muddy!

Here’s a small list to get you started:

• Water + Bowl
• Treats
• Leash
• Waste Bags
• Toys
• Towel
• Lifejacket

Additional Pro-Tips

• Tell your Photographer in advance that you will be bringing your pet.
• Don’t select a location where your pet will be uncomfortable.
• Don’t rush your session – talk to your photographer about how much time they will need.
• Plan on wearing something more causal during the portion of your session involving your pet.
• Think about your pets attire. What leash, collar or clothing will they be wearing? Does it match you?
• Don’t expect your pet to sit still.

Ready to Plan your Engagement Session with your Furry Friend in Tow?

I would be happy to help you plan a meaningful session with your pet. Reach out here to get started.