The tradition of Day of the Dead or Dia de los Muertos is not limited to humans, as many families also dedicate a space on their altars to honor their pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge.
Day of the Dead is a deeply rooted tradition in Mexican culture, a celebration that honors loved ones who have passed away, characterized by the creation of altars or offerings.
If you’re wondering how to prepare a Dia de los Muertos offering for your dogs and cats, here are some ideas to do it meaningfully.
Day of the Dead for Pets
Day of the Dead is a celebration full of symbolism and traditions that pay tribute to loved ones who have passed away.
Altars of the dead are the cornerstone of this festivity and are usually filled with symbolic objects, food, drinks, and other items believed to help the souls of the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.
In recent years, the trend of creating Day of the Dead altars for dogs and cats has gained popularity in Mexico and elsewhere. Many people consider their dogs and cats as family members, and Day of the Dead is a special occasion to remember and honor their memory.
YOU CAN READ: Day of Dead: 10 facts about Dia de los Muertos
Dia de los muertos: Ideas for the Offering for Dogs and Cats
Here are some ideas to prepare a Day of the Dead offering for your dogs and cats:
When? In Mexico, traditionally, the Day of the Dead altar is set up on November 1st and 2nd to honor the deceased. However, for pets, October 27th has been adopted as the Day of the Dead for dogs and cats. This day is chosen so that pets can enjoy the offering before the main celebration and to avoid any confusion with offerings dedicated to humans.
- Special Altar: Prepare a special altar for your pets. You can place it next to the main altar or in a place that is meaningful to you and your animals. Use a table or an elevated surface and cover it with a colorful tablecloth.
- Photographs: Place photographs of your deceased pets on the altar. The images will serve as a loving reminder of the moments shared with them.
- Candles: Light candles or colored candles on the altar. The candlelight is considered a guide for the souls on their journey. You can choose colors that represent your pets’ personalities. You can also opt for candle-shaped LED lights for safety if you cannot supervise the altar all the time.
- Flowers: Decorate the altar with fresh or paper flowers. Flowers, especially marigolds and velvet flowers, are symbols of the fleeting nature of life and its beauty.
- Food and water: Put a dish with your pets’ favorite food and a bowl of fresh water on the altar. It is believed that the aroma of the food will attract the souls of the pets. Don’t forget to include treats, dog biscuits, or cat treats.
- Toys and personal items: If you have toys, collars, or other items that belonged to your pets, place them on the altar as a gesture of love.
- Incense: Burn copal or your choice of incense to purify the environment and create a solemn and respectful atmosphere.
- Calaveritas or Catrina Figures: There are many options available, choose one that represents your beloved four-legged friends.
- Invite friends and family to visit your pets’ altar and share special stories and memories.
- Creating a Day of the Dead altar for dogs and cats is a beautiful and meaningful way to keep their memory alive and express your love and gratitude towards them.
