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This is the date you should set up the altar for your deceased dogs and cats
In 2018, a Mexican company proposed a date to commemorate pets on Día de los Muertos or “Day of the Dead,” especially abandoned dogs
In Mexico, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a cherished tradition that honors the memory of loved ones who have passed away. Over time, this tradition has evolved beloved pets, because people recognize the deep bond with animals. While most people honor their pets October 27, another date has been designed to commemorate our furry friends. Learn more about this alternative Día de Muertos for pets and how it all started.
The origins of Día de los Muertos for pets
The idea of dedicating a special Día de los Muertos to pets only took root in recent years, fueled by an innovative advertising campaign in 2018.
A Mexican funeral company for pets, Pet funerallaunched a campaign with proposals November 3 as a day to honor deceased pets. The campaign, titled “Loose Invisibles” (The Invisibles), was developed in collaboration with the creative agency Figallo No Format Agency. An emphasis was placed on remembering pets that are often overlooked – especially stray dogs and cats who live and die without human companionship.
The campaign sought to establish November 3 as a day to honor all pets, especially those without homes or families. Funeral Pet hoped this new date would invite people to honor animals who, although no longer physically present, were still beloved companions. The company’s proposal was mainly intended to raise awareness about stray dogs and cats, whose lives often end up on the streets without recognition.
Why do most people honor their pets on October 27?
Although Funeral Pet originally suggested November 3, over time October 27 became the popular date for pet listing. Many people felt that celebrating Día de los Muertos for pets before the main celebrations on November 1 and 2 allowed for a special space to honor animals separated from their loved ones. This early date allows pet owners to focus solely on their furry companions, creating a separate time to set up their altar without overlapping with human sacrifices.
For those who were unable to set up their animal altar on October 27: November 3 still offers an ideal opportunity to commemorate and honor these loyal friends. This later date is especially meaningful for those who wish to commemorate animals who may have died without a family or stable home.
Why November 3 is special: remembering forgotten pets
November 3, as suggested by Funeral Pet, is not just for pets, but is also intended as a day to remember strays and pets that may have gone unnoticed. The campaign highlighted the many animals, especially dogs, who die on the streets after a life of hardship.
This alternative Día de los Muertos for dogs and cats is an opportunity to honor this “invisible” companions and to recognize the many lives lost without a voice or a place to be remembered. By remembering all pets on this date, people can honor the loyalty and love of animals, both with and without a home.
Preparing a Día de los Muertos altar for pets
Setting up one Día de los Muertos altar for pets can be a beautiful way to remember the joy they brought to your life. While a pet altar may follow the traditional style, it can be customized to reflect the unique bond you share with your pet. Here are some essentials for a meaningful pet altar:
- Photos: Post a photo of your pet to bring their memory into the room.
- Candles: Candles light the way for souls to return, and can be chosen in colors that reflect your pet’s personality.
- Marigold flowers: Known in Spanish as “cempasúchil”, these flowers accompany the soul with their fragrance and vibrant colors.
- Food and water: Set out your pet’s favorite treats, food or water and offer him or her one last meal to enjoy.
- Toys and personal items: Add your pet’s favorite toys, collars or other special items, making the altar a personal tribute.
- Copal incense: Copal incense purifies the environment and creates a solemn space for remembrance.
This altar not only celebrates your pet’s life, but also provides a symbolic connection to their spirit, honoring the unique memories shared.
The deep connection between dogs and Día de Muertos
In Mexican pre-Hispanic culture, dogs were considered crucial companions for the journey after death. According to ancient beliefs Xoloitzcuintle dogs accompanied the souls of the deceased to the underworld or Mictlan. The ancient practice involved burying the deceased together with their dogs, symbolizing a lifelong bond that continued even after death. This tradition inspired the popular animated film ‘Coco’, in which the character Dantea faithful Xoloitzcuintle dog, accompanies Miguel to the world of the dead.
Dante’s role reflects the enduring belief that dogs, particularly the Xoloitzcuintle breed, serve as guides for souls on their journey to the afterlife, bridging the worlds of the living and the dead.
Honoring pets on Día de los Muertos: a tradition that is expanding
This upcoming Día de Muertos for pets shows how traditions can grow to include all the beloved members of the family, even those with fur, feathers or scales. Whether you choose October 27 or November 3, each date offers an opportunity to honor and remember pets who have left their mark on our lives. With these altars we celebrate both the joy that pets bring and the deep love that continues after their death.
TYT Newsroom
