Cats, dogs, snakes, horses and yes, even penguins. More and more, brides and grooms are finding that planning a wedding ceremony isn’t complete without man’s best friend (or in one very special case, some guests from a local aquarium who showed up in their own tuxedos!). Why have pets become so important for today’s couples? Quite simply put, the term “pet” doesn’t apply to the pampered pooches and kitties who make our lives complete.

“Our dog is family, hands down,” says Man Wife and Dog blogger, Charli Penn-Watkins. Watkins recently tied the knot and made sure her Yorkshire terrier Karma played a major role in the event.  ”It wasn’t just important to have her be a part of our wedding it was necessary,” she insists. “I don’t think it would have been as special if she wasn’t right there at the altar with us. We made her our dog of honor and put her name in the program and everything. Some of my family members thought the idea was silly, but she ended up being the biggest hit.”

So what do you need to know before include favorite furry (or scaly, feathery, etc.) friend in your wedding? Here’s a quick primer:

1. Be Realistic – If your pet doesn’t do well around large groups of people, it’s probably a good idea to skip including them in your ceremony altogether and just focus on having them there for your wedding pics. Anxiety is contagious, so don’t pass it on to your pet and make them miserable on one of the happiest day of your life.

2. Plan Ahead – According to Jessica Meiczinger of  Simply Divine Events, practice makes perfect. “You definitely want to do a trial run [at your venue],” she suggests. The same goes for any wedding outfits you have in mind for your pet. ”I’ve seen decorated collars, bow ties and garlands of flowers go awry half-way down the aisle,” Meiczinger admits.

3. Keep it Short and Sweet – Fluffy or Fido should make a brief cameo at your wedding — not become the focal point. Unlike your well-trained human bridal party, animals can become unpredictable when scared or excited so it’s important to take that into consideration when planning out each aspect of your ceremony.

4. Designate a Pet “Ambassador” – Potty patrol? Treat brigade? Someone’s got to be there to make sure your pet behaves and is comfortable (and for once it can’t and shouldn’t be you!). Mary Angelini of Florida’s Key Moments Productions says putting a friend or family member in charge is extremely helpful. “They should be familiar with your pet and able to make decisions for him or her without asking you first,” she notes. “They need to be in charge if your pet becomes uncomfortable or needs to be escorted to a more appropriate location.”

5. Don’t Forget the Food and Favors — Don’t leave home without your pet’s treats, toys, leash, cage, food, water, favorite blankie, etc. Want to make the day is extra special? Have a mini cake made for your pal so they feel included in every aspect of the festivities (even if they’re already safely curled up at home in their bed while you dance the rest of the night away).