Dia de Muertos for Pets: Honoring Beloved Animals

Dia de Muertos, celebrated on November 1 and 2, is a Mexican tradition that honors the spirits of loved ones who have passed. Over time, this practice has extended to pets, recognizing them as cherished family members. October 27 has become an unofficial day to remember deceased pets, with many creating ofrendas (altars) featuring their pet’s favorite items, such as toys, treats, and photos. This act provides comfort and celebrates the joy pets brought into our lives.

Key Points:

• October 27: A day to honor departed pets before Dia de Muertos.
• Ofrendas for Pets: Include candles, marigolds, water, food, salt, and personal mementos.
• Activities: Memorial gatherings, writing letters, and creating keepsakes.
• Symbolism: Alebrijes and traditions like the Xoloitzcuintli reflect pets' roles as spiritual guides.

Building a pet ofrenda or participating in related activities helps keep their memory alive while offering a way to process grief. Whether observing this tradition annually or year-round, it’s an opportunity to celebrate the love shared with your pet.

CELEBRATE DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FOR PETS | RANCH VLOGS #5

The History of Dia de Muertos and Honoring Pets

Dia de Muertos traces its origins back thousands of years to Mesoamerican civilizations like the Aztecs and Maya, where death was seen as a natural part of life. The Aztecs, in particular, dedicated extended periods to honoring the dead, offering tributes to Mictecacihuatl, the "Lady of the Dead." These rituals were a way to maintain connections with those who had passed on^[4][6]. Over time, these traditions evolved to include not just human souls but also the beloved pets that enrich our lives.

When the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, indigenous practices blended with Catholic traditions, particularly All Saints' and All Souls' Days, shaping the modern version of Dia de Muertos^[1][5]. By the 20th century, the Mexican government embraced the holiday as a symbol of national identity^[1].

Why Pets Are Included in Dia de Muertos

The inclusion of pets in Dia de Muertos reflects the deep bond between humans and animals. Today, the holiday continues to adapt, with many recognizing that its central theme - celebrating love and joy for those who have passed - extends naturally to pets as well^[7][4].

"The main message of joy and celebration and love for your friends and family that pass - even pets - is universal. We all have that in our lives."
– Alejandra Balcazar, Latine/x Student Development Program Lead, Towson University^[4]

This idea has historical roots, particularly in the role of the Xoloitzcuintli, an ancient Mexican dog breed. These dogs were believed to guide souls across the Chiconauhuapan river to the Underworld. In earlier times, families would bury Xoloitzcuintlis alongside the deceased. Today, people honor this tradition by placing ceramic figurines or photos of their pets on ofrendas (altars), symbolizing the guidance and companionship pets continue to offer^[8]. This practice not only honors pets but also helps families - both adults and children - face the concept of mortality in a comforting way^[4][6]. Over time, this reverence has led to the creation of a special day, October 27, dedicated solely to remembering animal companions.

October 27: The Day for Remembering Pets

October 27 is set aside as the day when the spirits of departed pets are believed to return for a brief visit^[9][3]. This date comes just before the main Dia de Muertos celebrations, which run through November 2^[9].

"October 27 is a special day dedicated to the spirits of our animal companions - a day to welcome back the pets who once filled our lives with love, laughter, and comfort."
– Toronto Humane Society^[3]

In October 2025, Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle created a public animal ofrenda, inviting visitors to share photos of their pets. Similarly, Audubon Zoo in New Orleans hosted a "Beloved Animal Ofrenda" from October 17 through November 2^[10][11]. Traditionally, pet ofrendas are built before October 27 and remain in place until at least November 3, ensuring a proper welcome for the spirits of cherished pets^[9].

How to Build a Pet Ofrenda

Creating a pet ofrenda is a heartfelt way to honor your furry, feathered, or scaly companion and invite their spirit back home. Start by choosing a spot your pet loved - maybe a sunny windowsill or their favorite cozy corner. If you have other pets, place the ofrenda on a higher surface like a cabinet to keep it safe and undisturbed.

Basic Elements of an Ofrenda

A meaningful pet ofrenda includes traditional elements that symbolize the journey and nourishment of the returning spirit. At the center, place a photograph of your pet to remind them they are deeply cherished. If you don’t have a photo, a drawing or even your pet’s name surrounded by hand-drawn paw prints can be just as touching.

• Candles: These represent fire and light the way for your pet’s spirit. If safety is a concern - especially with kids or other pets around - LED candles are a great option.
• Marigolds (cempasúchil): The bright orange flowers and their distinct scent are believed to guide spirits to the altar. Scatter petals from your door to the ofrenda to create a welcoming path.
• Water: Symbolizing purification and refreshment, a fresh bowl of water mirrors the care you once provided.
• Food and Treats: Representing the earth, these offer nourishment for your pet’s spirit. Include their favorite kibble, a special treat, or even a “human” snack they enjoyed, like boneless chicken or cookies.
• Salt: A small dish of salt provides purification and protection.
• Papel Picado: These colorful, perforated paper banners represent air and add a festive touch. Look for designs featuring paw prints or animal shapes to make it more personal.

Element	Representation	Examples
Candles	Fire; light to guide the soul	LED or traditional candles
Water	Purification; refreshment	Fresh bowl of water
Marigolds	Scent and color to guide spirit	Flowers or a petal path
Papel Picado	Air; the fragility of life	Paw-print or animal-shaped designs
Salt	Purification and protection	Small dish on the altar
Food/Treats	Earth; sustenance for the spirit	Kibble, favorite snacks, or special foods

Once these elements are in place, you can make the altar even more meaningful by adding items that celebrate your pet’s unique personality.

Adding Your Pet's Favorite Items

Personal mementos breathe life into your ofrenda, reflecting the special bond you shared. Include items that carry your pet’s scent or remind you of your time together - like collars, tags, leashes, beds, or blankets. Adding a beloved toy, such as a ball, squeaky toy, or stuffed animal, can bring back warm memories.

For pets other than cats and dogs, add species-specific items. For example, birds might have loved a certain perch or bell, while rabbits may have enjoyed hay or fresh vegetables. Reptiles could be honored with textures or plants they favored. Genesis Pimentel-Howard from Philadelphia created a touching ofrenda for her cat Mobi by placing a shadow box on a bedroom shelf. Inside, she included Mobi’s collar, a paw impression, and photos of other beloved family pets ^[2].

Using Alebrijes as Spirit Guides

Alebrijes - brightly painted folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures - serve as symbolic spirit guides in your pet’s journey. Rooted in ancient beliefs, these colorful figures represent animal companions guiding souls to the afterlife. This tradition is inspired by the sacred Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican hairless dog), thought to help spirits cross into Mictlán, the realm of eternal rest.

Adding an alebrije to your pet’s ofrenda can symbolize their protection and guidance. You can find these sculptures in Mexican craft stores, online, or make your own using painted wood or papier-mâché. It’s a creative and meaningful way to honor your pet’s spirit while connecting to a rich cultural tradition.

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Activities to Honor Your Pet During Dia de Muertos

Dia de Muertos isn't just about creating an ofrenda - it’s a chance to celebrate the life and love you shared with your pet through meaningful activities.

Organizing a Pet Memorial Gathering

A memorial gathering can bring people together to reflect and share stories about your pet. For example, in November 2025, the Association of Mexican Business Owners of Philadelphia held a Dia de Muertos event at the Italian Market. Residents placed photos of both loved ones and pets on a community ofrenda at Ninth Street and Washington Avenue. Gerardo Coronado Benitez, the event manager, shared its purpose:

"The day is not about death, but about celebrating and remembering people, keeping memories alive. Of course many people want to keep alive the memories of their pets." ^[2]

You can host a similar gathering by inviting friends and family to contribute to your ofrenda. Encourage them to share a happy memory about their pets. For inspiration, look to the Los Angeles Zoo, which partners with Plaza de la Raza for its annual "Beloved Pets Ofrenda." Since 2022, visitors have been invited to add photos and mementos to the altar. In October 2025, this event won the Association of Zoos & Aquariums' Innovation in Education Award ^[12]. To make your gathering more interactive, consider setting up an art station where guests can draw their pets or decorate frames to add to the altar.

Creating Letters or Art for Your Pet

Writing a letter to your pet can be a heartfelt way to express your gratitude and reflect on your special moments together. You might choose to read the letter aloud at your ofrenda or place it there as a symbolic offering. Similarly, drawing or painting a portrait of your pet can help you process your emotions while creating a keepsake to cherish. These creative activities are also a wonderful way to involve children, helping them learn empathy and find meaningful ways to remember loved ones.

Using Dia de Muertos Practices Year-Round

Honoring your pet doesn’t have to be limited to Dia de Muertos. Consider keeping a small, permanent altar with your pet’s photo, collar, or a candle. You can light the candle on meaningful dates, such as their birthday, the anniversary of their passing, or even the 27th of each month. Another idea is to create a memory box decorated with marigolds, paw prints, or sugar skulls to store keepsakes.

You can also honor your pet by giving back. Volunteering at animal shelters, fostering animals, or making donations in your pet’s name can transform your grief into a lasting tribute. These acts of kindness ensure that your pet’s love continues to inspire you every day.

For more ideas and support in coping with pet loss, visit To Lose A Dog.

Conclusion

Día de Muertos beautifully celebrates the pets who brought love and joy into our lives. This tradition provides a heartfelt way to honor their memory while navigating the grief of their loss. By crafting an ofrenda, sharing cherished stories, and engaging in meaningful rituals, you acknowledge that your connection with your pet transcends their passing - living on through memories, gratitude, and the love you shared. It’s a touching blend of remembrance and enduring connection.

As mentioned earlier, recognizing pets as family members is at the heart of including them on altars, ensuring they remain a part of your life even after they’re gone. Whether you observe this tradition on October 27 or anytime throughout the year, these rituals keep your pet’s legacy alive, offering comfort in the knowledge that their memory endures through the positive actions you take in their honor.

For those seeking support after the loss of a beloved pet, To Lose A Dog provides compassionate guidance and practical advice to help you navigate grief while celebrating the unique bond you shared.

FAQs

Why is October 27 dedicated to honoring pets during Dia de Muertos?

October 27 has become a special day to honor pets as part of Día de Muertos traditions, thanks to its adoption in 2019 by a Mexican funeral company. This date was selected to pay tribute to cherished animals and ties closely to indigenous beliefs, which regard dogs as spiritual guides aiding souls on their journey to the afterlife. Over the years, this heartfelt tradition has gained momentum, giving pet owners a chance to craft meaningful ofrendas and celebrate the deep connection they had with their furry companions.

What should I include in a Día de Muertos altar for my pet?

Creating an ofrenda for your pet is a heartfelt way to cherish their memory during Día de Muertos. To start, include candles to light their way back home, marigold flowers (cempasúchil) for their bright color and distinctive fragrance, a photo of your pet, and a bowl of water to refresh their spirit.

For a personal touch, you can add their favorite treats or foods - perhaps some kibble or a small piece of chicken - and meaningful keepsakes like a collar, toy, or blanket. These thoughtful additions make the altar feel warm and inviting, celebrating your pet’s individuality while honoring the traditions of this meaningful day.

How are Alebrijes used as spirit guides for pets during Dia de Muertos?

Alebrijes are vibrant, imaginative creatures from Mexican folk art, often tied to spiritual traditions of Día de Muertos. These colorful figures are thought to serve as guides, helping the souls of loved ones navigate their journey to and from the afterlife.

To pay tribute to a beloved pet, you can include small alebrije sculptures on their ofrenda alongside meaningful items like a collar, a photo, or their favorite toy. Consider selecting colors that reflect your pet's personality - perhaps orange for a lively dog or blue for a serene cat. Placing a candle near the alebrije represents the light that guides your pet’s spirit back home. Once the celebration ends, the alebrije can become a cherished keepsake, honoring the memory of your pet's spiritual presence.