We usually ask our closest pals to stand beside us on our wedding day, but if you have a furry friend at home, that’s a huge part of your life, you can absolutely find ways to make them part of your special day. If you’re wondering how and even when they can be included, here are 6 ways to make your pet a special part of your wedding experience.

1. A Cameo in Your Engagement Photo Shoot
Nothing screams love more than having your pet as part of your engagement photos. You can use these photos on your save the dates or frame them for centerpieces at your wedding. Either way, it’ll remind all of your guests that your pet best friend is a major part of the family and your wedding.

2. A Guest at Your Rehearsal Dinner
If your rehearsal dinner is some place laid-back and casual, see if you can bring your pet for the night. You can also make it a dog, or cat-friendly, event and ask your guests to bring their pets too.

3. A Walk Down the Aisle
Want to give your pet an honor at your wedding? Have it walk down the aisle, or be carried down the aisle, by a member of the wedding party. Whether that means a groomsmen or bridesmaid takes on the honor of being their chaperone.

4. A Role As Your Ring Bearer or Flower Girl
If you don’t have any young children to take on these honors in your family, and you have a well-trained dog who can follow directions and cues, you’ll definitely up the cute factor by sending them down as your mighty ring bearer or darling flower girl.

5. A Pre-Wedding Pal
Need a relaxer for the morning of your wedding? Bring your pet to be there with you as you get ready for the big day. If the place you’re getting ready allows it, you can even keep them there for the rest of the day.

6. A Member of Your Bridal Party
Stranger things have happened at a wedding, so don’t feel weird if you decide to make your pet an honorary member of your bridal party. After all, they truly are one of your best friends.