Everything you Need to Know to Elope with your Pets

by Jolana | Jun 3, 2025 | Adventure Blog, Elopement Resources

Your Comprehensive Guide to Eloping with your Pets

Our pets are so much more than just our companions, they are our therapists, our exercise partners, our snuggle buddies, and the ones that have been through all our relationship lows and highs. Pets are our furry family members that mark the bringing together of our families, oftentimes way before engagement and marriage. So naturally, it would feel disingenuous to not have them be a part of your wedding day!

As a mom to my German Shepherd Davina, and step mom to my partner’s 2 Siamese cats, Ananda and Premy, I can’t imagine not including them in our elopement in one way or another. And many of our wedding clients feel the same!

This blog is a compilation of everything we’ve learned about including your pets: from what to consider, what to do and bring, to the things to avoid, to useful tidbits that will help make it stress-free! As a sister to a super successful dog trainer, I have become an expert in (1) photographing pets, and (2) learned a few tips and tricks along the way to make the day go smoother with your pups.

I have also included a short section at the end about ways to include your pets without them actually being present, in case your dream elopement doesn’t quite work with pups being there physically.

Considerations to help you Decide if Bringing your Dog(s) is Best:

Before even considering bringing your dogs along, think about what you want your elopement day to look like. You may have a vision in which your pets are a part of the full day, only a part of it, or maybe just in spirit. Here are a few questions to get those hamster wheels spinning and help you find out how plausible it is to bring your furry family member with you:

• Are you planning to hike to your elopement spot? Is the hike length and terrain something your pup can handle?
• Are you looking to incorporate an activity – such as a helicopter ride, kayaking, fishing, etc…? Is that an activity your pup would be a part of, or would they be staying behind for that part?
• What climate are you hoping to elope in- Desert, Tropical, Glacier, etc…?
• Will you be flying to your destination? If so, will your pet be able to travel with you?
• Does your dog have anxiety issues or any medical needs that may arise during the elopement?

If you are still in the beginning stages of your planning, you may not have the answer to all these questions, and THAT’S OKAY! We are here to help. What that means is if having your pet with you is a non-negotiable, then I’m here to help make that happen in a way that is stress-free and safe for both you and your furry family member. 

Choosing a Location:

The first thing to think about is your desired climate, and is it conducive with your pet. Think husky and the desert may not mix, nor chihuahua and a snow covered mountain!

The next is… how easy is it to travel with your dog? Do you want to find a location within driving distance, or would you like to fly them out with you? 

Also keep in mind certain parks may require permits to be purchased for your pup ahead of time. Also keep leash laws in mind and wherever you end up, practicing Leave No Trace is just as important with your pet as it is with us humans.

Now down to some useful information when it comes to locations within the United States. 

Dog-Friendly Locations for Your Adventure Elopement: What’s Allowed Where

Choosing the right location is something that we 100% help all our couples do, so you don’t have to stress about it. Think of us as your planners and personal hype team, along with your epic photographers! But here are some general guidelines of what’s allowed where:

National Parks:

• Generally not very dog-friendly.
  • Most U.S. National Parks restrict dogs to paved roads, campgrounds, and parking areas.
  • Dogs are usually not allowed on hiking trails, in backcountry areas, or on boardwalks.
• A few exceptions (like Acadia, Shenandoah, and White Sands) allow dogs on some trails, but always double-check the specific park’s pet policy.

✔️ Tip: If you’re set on a National Park, consider nearby National Forests for the actual ceremony or portraits with your pup.

National Forests

•  Much more dog-friendly!
• Dogs are typically allowed on trails, in dispersed camping areas, and on most forest land, often off-leash if under voice control (check local leash laws).
• A great alternative if you want epic scenery without the National Park restrictions.

State Parks

• Varies by state and even by park.
• Many State Parks allow dogs on leashes and in certain campgrounds or trails, but some limit access to developed areas.

✔️ Tip: State Parks can be a great middle ground — more flexible than National Parks but still well-maintained and scenic.

State Forests

• Often very pet-friendly.
• Similar to National Forests in dog accessibility. Dogs are usually welcome on trails and in open areas.
• Fewer facilities than State Parks, but that means more freedom (and fewer crowds).

BLM Land (Bureau of Land Management)

• Extremely dog-friendly.
• BLM lands are often open to off-leash dogs unless otherwise posted.
• You’ll find fewer developed trails but more open space and freedom — perfect for off-the-beaten-path elopements.

✔️ Tip: Ideal for couples who want a remote, private ceremony and don’t mind roughing it a bit.

Private Land / Airbnbs / Cabins

• Completely up to the property owner.
• Many mountain lodges, farm venues, or Airbnb cabins are dog-friendly — and often more flexible than public lands.
• If you’re dreaming of a ceremony with your pup running around leash-free, private land is often your best bet.
• Also a great option if you have an anxious pup! Getting there a day before gives them a chance to get comfortable in the new space, so by the time you get married they are more relaxed

States Where Pets Can Legally Witness Your Wedding

• Yes, you read that right – There are states in which your pup (or kittie!) can be legally involved in your ceremony as a wedding witness! They can “sign’ it with their paw print… and I can’t think of a sweeter way to involve your furry family member.
• As of 2025, the following states and Washington, D.C., allow pets to serve as wedding witnesses:
  • Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, D.C
• Important Consideration: Even within states that allow pet witnesses, individual counties may have specific rules. For example, some counties in Colorado have changed their policies regarding paw print signatures. Always check with the local county clerk’s office to confirm current regulations.
• Make sure to purchase non-toxic pet-friendly ink!

Must-Have Gear for Bringing Your Dog to Your Elopement

Whether your pup is joining you on the trail, walking you down the “aisle,” or just hanging out for portraits, here’s what to pack to keep them safe, happy, and looking adorable.

Essentials for Comfort & Safety

• A printed list of their vaccinations from your vet, along with their rabies certificate
  • For travel and the worse case scenario of having to go to a strange vet, you have everything they need to take care of your pup properly!
• Leash + Harness (or Collar)
  • Use a secure harness rather than just a collar if you’ll be on trails or uneven ground. A hands-free leash can be a great option for hiking couples!
  • If your dog has been trained using a prong collar, slip lead, or other specific tools, absolutely bring the gear they’re familiar with. Using what works best for your dog — and what they’ve been trained with — will help everyone feel more relaxed and confident throughout the day.
• ID Tags + Microchip
• Make sure your pup’s tags are up to date with your cell number, and that they’re microchipped just in case they get spooked or wander off.
• Collapsible Bowl
  • Collapsible bowls are a great way to go to take up minimal space in your pack, while making sure you have water for your pup
• Food + Treats
• Dog Waste Bags (if you forget these, we usually have some in random coat pockets and with our camera gear!)
• Their favorite toy
  •  Great for bribery during photos, and to keep them entertained during down time!
• Kennel or an enclosure
  • If your pup has anxiety and tends to roam/destroy things while alone, a kennel may be a great option to bring along so you don’t have to worry about them getting into something they shouldn’t!
• Pet wet-wipes or Towel
  • We all know how muddy our pups can get! Bring something designated for cleaning them. Dog friendly wet-wipes are always great to have as well!

Adventure Add-Ons (Especially for Hikes)

• Dog Backpack (if trained)
  • Some dogs love having a job! A well-fitting pack can carry their own water, snacks, or booties.
• First aid kit for your pup
  • We always hope for the best but prepare for the worst
• Bug protection
  • Your pup needs bug protection as badly as we do; whether it’s in the form of a bug net, dog-friendly bug spray, or something else! Also think about native wildlife in the area you are eloping that may be venomous or a danger to your pet.
• Paw Protection (Boots or Balm)
  • For hot sand, sharp rocks, or snow. Boots take some getting used to, so do a trial run at home.
  • Also a great option if you are worried about your pup jumping on you and ruining your dress!
• Cooling Vest or Jacket
  • For elopements in extreme heat or cold, a dog-specific jacket or vest can keep them comfy.
• Ceremony & Photo Extras
  • Think any cute signs you’d like to include in photos like “My Humans Are Getting Married” or “Best Pup”. Bowties and flower crowns are also popular options!

Tips and Tricks to make the Elopement go Smoothly with your Pet

There are a few things we do to help make the day go as smoothly as possible! Here are our top tips:

• Practice with your gear before the elopement! Making sure both you and your pup are comfortable with the gear makes a huge difference! This includes having them wear their boots/sign/ bowtie ahead of time as well.
• If you are having a micro-wedding or an intimate wedding, assign someone in your group to be responsible for caring for your pet; think of them as the dog-wrangler! You can also hire a pet sitter in whatever location you elope in to help take the pressure off of you. Hiring someone outside of your intimate circle also takes the pressure off those that matter to you most, and allows them to be fully present with you and your partner.  
• Make sure your pet is up to date on all their vaccinations! Often necessary to cross borders and also keeps your pup safe
• Invest in dog training or a private lesson with a trainer to go over any concerns you may have. They are an amazing resource in helping you address your concerns beforehand and giving you tips and tricks on how you can help this be smooth for your pup specifically. 
• If the terrain isn’t suitable for your pup, consider having them be a part of your getting ready photos at the Airbnb! They can be there with you before and after, and stay safe during the parts that aren’t so pet-friendly. Also a great option if you are doing an activity that isn’t pet friendly during the day.

✔️ Tip: Contact Bohemian K9 Dog Training for a private lesson! She is based out of New York, however she offers private lessons over video-chat. She’s helped me immensely with my super anxious pup, and I’ve had several of my wedding couples and friends use her over the years, all have had raving reviews! Check her out here!

What to Do if Your Pet Can’t Attend

Sometimes as badly as we want to include our doggos, it just isn’t feasible. In that case, here are some ways you can still keep them near and dear to your hearts during your elopement.

• Video-chat with your pet!
• Include them in your vows
• Read a “letter” from your pet sharing their version of your love story. It can be funny or heartfelt!
• Have a photo of your furry member printed on socks, a handkerchief, put into a charm to carry on your flowers, etc…! You can also have their silhouette embroidered on many different clothing items.
• Bring something of theirs to include in your photos: such as a collar, their paw print, or their favorite toy. This is also a great way to include those who have crossed the rainbow bridge in your elopement.
• Include them in your engagement photos
• Have a professional painter create an image of your wedding day with your pet in it

Whether your dog is joining you on the trail or sending their love from afar, there are so many ways to make them a meaningful part of your adventure elopement. With the right planning, gear, and a few thoughtful touches, your furry family member can be woven into your day in a way that feels true to you. If you’re dreaming up an elopement experience that includes your pet — or simply want help navigating what’s possible — we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s hop on a call and start planning an elopement that celebrates all the love in your life — tail wags included.

Click Here to schedule a phone call with me, or text me at 585-432-0403!

Basic Gear for a Hiking Elopement

by Jolana | Sep 6, 2024 | Adventure Blog, Elopement Resources

What should you pack for a hiking elopement!?

So your elopement includes a small (or long) hike of some sorts…and now you’re wondering what in the heck you need to pack!? Well first off, I am SO excited that you chose to elope (or have a micro-wedding!) that involves a hike. To me, it is one of the best and most beautiful ways to start off this new chapter in your life. And second, we’ve got you covered on what you need!

A quick disclaimer and a note: This list is intended for hikes of up to 4 miles total. Anything over that we do recommend extra gear. This is also a general list, and depending on where you are hiking, there may be additional needs. Some parks require you carry certain gear with you, while some terrain may have must-have gear not on this list! 

Shoes:

Shoes are probably the most important thing to get right. They are the difference between feeling stable and grounded, vs slipping and feeling hesitant with every step. I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but that’s because it should. Bad shoes will make any experience unpleasant. 

So, with all of that- what do we recommend? Check out our top options below. Make sure no matter what shoes you end up wearing, that you break them in before your hike. Nothing is worse than dealing with blisters on your wedding day.

Also, remember that you can always bring shoes with you to change into at the end of your hike if you have a different vision in mind for your wedding photos! 

Hiking Boots- 

These are your best option. Good hiking boots will have an outsole (the bottom of the shoe) that has solid traction, which is key. There are so many different types of boots you can get: ankle support, isolated, waterproof, etc… REI has a fantastic, in-depth guide, on helping you figure out the best hiking boot for you (we really didn’t want to reinvent the wheel on this with such an impressive guide already out there!): https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/hiking-boots.html Whatever hiking boots you decide are right for you, make sure to have proper socks to go along with them!

Some of our favorite brands for hiking boots:

Keens
Merrells
Oboz
Colombia

Sneakers:

What if you don’t own any hiking boots, and don’t want to buy them just for your elopement? That’s not a problem! A good pair of sneakers can do the trick as well, as long as it’s a fairly easy hike. Here are the main things to check out about your sneakers to make sure they will work:

• The sneakers fit the curve of your foot (they aren’t the slip-on type that have a completely flat insole)
• You can bend the shoes a bit (grab the heel area and the toe area and push in towards the shoe to see if they bend!). If they are completely stiff and have no bend, this means that you have less control on uneven ground, which is the opposite of what you want when hiking!
• They have good traction and the outsoles are made of a solid rubber, not a cheap plastic
• When you tie them up, they have a snug fit
• They are NOT slip-ons. Anything that easy to put on means it’s that easy to come right off again

Sneakers are fine for most light hikes, however if you plan on hiking terrain full of roots, rock crawls, and uneven ground, you may want to consider hiking boots that provide more ankle support. Remember we are there to help you plan your whole adventure, down to which shoes we think will be best for your hike! So if you aren’t sure, don’t hesitate to ask!

Hiking Sandals

Hiking sandals are a great option if you are hiking in hot and/or wet surroundings. If you will be walking through streams and in tropic temperatures, hiking sandals are the way to go. You don’t have to worry about trudging through water, and they are breathable! As with sneakers though, you have to be sure to get the right ones:

• Make sure the outsoles are made of rubber, not a light plastic. A lot of cheap sandals are made of plastic on the bottoms that will easily puncture with the first sharp rock you step on. These do not provide substantial traction or protection from the environment. 
• Buy closed toe sandals. Most hiking paths have roots and rocks sticking out, and the last thing you want to do is stub your toe/ or worse. This is especially important if you plan on starting or finishing your hike in the dark.
• Make sure they fit well and are broken in! Having a sandal that your foot slides around in will only make you less steady, which leads to bigger chance of injury.

Gear:

When it comes to hiking, it is easy to go gear crazy and bring too much…. Or the opposite, not bring enough. I tend to be the “not bring enough” person, while my partner is the “bring too much.” We do our best to use this to our advantage and balance each other out. 

Here is a list of gear that we can both agree on being essentials!

• Water bottle- Water is a must. The amount of water you need depends on the length of the hike. One 16oz bottle per person is fine for up to 2 miles round trip. After that you would want either a bigger bottle or more than one. A couple of tips: Platypus bottle are great because they collapse once you have emptied them, but they don’t protect the water from getting warm. If you are hiking in hot temperatures, an insulated bottle may be the better way to go. Don’t bring a regular bottled water. The tops tend to be flimsy and they will burst open in your bag (ask me how I know!).

• Small Backpack- Having your hands free while you hike is a must, so having a small backpack is the way to go! Pro-tip- grab a backpack that has a chest and hip strap. These help distribute the weight on your back and make the bag much more comfortable to wear. Also remember these bags will be in photos, so if you are going for a certain aesthetic, make sure your bags match it. And lastly, bags with MOLLE webbing on the side are great because you can attach things right to the outside of you bag, such as sunhats, your wedding dress, your wedding shoes, or a just married sign!

• Sunglasses: This one is pretty self explanatory 🙂

• Headlamps: These are a must, even if you don’t plan on hiking in the dark. Having light outside of your phone is crucial. Cellphone lights are not very bright, and also phone batteries tend to be drained right when you need them. Make sure to get a headlamp that has a red light option as well, which is good to use because you don’t blind anyone with it when you are in a group.

• Small Med Kit: Cuts, blisters, insect bites, and other small injuries can happen at any time on a hike. Also, having Tylenol and IBUProfen can be a lifesaver!
• Medications: If you are on any medications, or have any severe allergic reactions that you need an EPIpen for, make sure to bring your medications with you!

• Sunhat: Protecting your face and head from the sun helps you not overheat!
• Sunscreen: The last thing you want is to be burnt by the time you reach your destination! I don’t know about you, but looking like a lobster in my wedding photos doesn’t quite make my list of to-dos!
• Bug Spray: Depending on your location and time of year, bugs can be BRUTAL! Make sure you have good bug spray to not only help you not get eaten, but to also help prevent bites from ticks and other insects that can carry diseases
• SNACKS!: Okay this may not be gear perse… but it is just as important! We are ALL about the snacks over here. We recommend fruit that isn’t squishable (apples, pears, peaches, etc…), Dark chocolate (or an alternative for some quick energy), some nuts and granola, and something with protein (like a sandwich). We personally love the simplicity of un-crustables, a nut mix, and apples!

Clothing:

Dressing for the weather… and anticipating weather  changes, is key! Remember that it gets cooler at night, and that in many places rain can happen unpredictably. Clothing recommendations, however, will vary greatly based on where you are in the world. We will keep this list to the bare necessities, based on mild weather conditions.

• Good socks and an extra pair in case the first ones get wet. Make sure the socks are at least ¼ or micro-crew in length to protect your ankles.
• Waterproof jacket: Even if it’s not supposed to rain, the weather can change in an instant. Also a waterproof jacket can double as a windbreaker and extra layer!
• Shorts: Shorts that are at least mid-length to protect your thighs from chafing are key for hiking

• Pants: Types of pants will differ based on the environment you are in. For example, in the desert I prefer thick overalls to protect my legs from all the thorns. In upstate NY, I prefer yoga-type pants that I can move in comfortably.
• Base Layers: If you are in a colder climate, base layers are crucial!

Clothes to stay away from:

• Jeans– unless it’s a short hike, most jeans don’t have much stretch to them and can be uncomfortable for longer hikes
• 100% Cotton– Cotton is not good for any type of moisture, whether that is rain or sweat. However cotton blends with other materials are usually fine!
• Anything that is super tight– It’s important you are able to move your legs and arms freely, without any restrictions!

What we Provide:

We know that packing and finding everything you need can be overwhelming. Because of this, we have a gear closet and bring certain things for you. These are the items we pack for our couples for our adventure elopements/engagements:

• Headlamps
• Bug Spray & Sunscreen
• Med Kit
• Gear to make coffee/tea on the summit
• 2 clear umbrellas
• Picnic Needs – If you are having a picnic at the final destination, and it is less than a 3 mile hike round trip, we will pack all the necessities for your picnic, including food and drinks
• Blanket to sit on
• Garbage bag
• If you are a fan of the Hookah (tobacco-only), this is something that can be requested to be brought along as well!
• 2 Lanterns for photography
• Elopement Items: We do also have “Just Married” and “Future Mr/Mrs & Mrs/Mr” signs, vow books, fake flowers, and a couple other small items to personalize your hike for your elopement if needed!

Where to Shop:

Most of what you need you can easily get on Amazon. I do, however, like to be able to physically see items when it comes to camping, so here are a couple of our favorite spots to shop anything outdoors:

Sierra Trading Post: This is my favorite place to shop. It is like a Marshalls (owned by the same company actually!), but more outdoorsy!

REI: My partner’s favorite is REI. They have the super high quality items, along with a 1 year return policy. So if you don’t end up using something, or you don’t love it like you thought you would, you can return it!

Hiking boots and sandals are the one item I would make sure to buy from a reputable store, and get in person so you can try them on and see what fits your feet the best!

Conclusion:

If you ever considered an elopement that includes a small hike, but aren’t sure where to even begin, I hope this packing list helps! We will be with you every step of the way to make sure you have what you need to make your elopement memorable for all the right reasons.