Did you know that Mexico has a special “Día de Muertos” for pets?

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On this day, you have to build 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,” particularly abandoned dogs

In Mexico, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a treasured tradition that honors the memory of loved ones who have died. Over time, this tradition has evolved beloved pets, when people recognize the deep connection with animals. While most people honor their pets October 27th There's another date to remember our furry friends. Learn more about this alternative Día de Muertos for pets and how it all began.

The Origins of Día de los Muertos for Pets

The idea of ​​dedicating a special Día de los Muertos to pets only emerged in recent years, sparked by an innovative advertising campaign in 2018.

A Mexican pet funeral home, Funeral petlaunched a campaign with suggestions November 3rd as a day to honor deceased pets. The campaign entitled “Los Invisibles” (The Invisibles) was developed with creative agency Figallo No Format Agency. The focus was on remembering pets that are often overlooked – especially stray dogs and cats who live and die without human companionship.

The campaign aimed to establish November 3rd as a day to honor all pets, especially those who do not have a home or family. Funeral Pet hoped this new date would invite people to honor animals who, while no longer physically present, were beloved companions. The company's proposal was primarily aimed at raising awareness about stray dogs and cats, whose lives often end up on the streets unrecognized.

Why do most people honor their pets on October 27th?

Although Funeral Pet originally suggested November 3rd, October 27th became a popular date for animal sacrifices. Many people felt that celebrating Día de los Muertos for pets would allow a dedicated space for honoring animals and loved ones before the main festivities on November 1st and 2nd. This early date allows pet owners to focus solely on their furry companions, providing a specific time to set up their altar without overlapping with human offerings.

For those who were unable to set up their favorite altar on October 27th: November 3rd still provides an ideal opportunity to remember and honor these loyal friends. This later date is particularly meaningful for those who want to remember animals who may have passed away without families or stable homes.

Why November 3rd is Special: Remembering Forgotten Pets

November 3, as suggested by Funeral Pet, is not only for family pets, but is also intended to be a memorial day for stray animals and pets that may have passed by unnoticed. The campaign drew attention to the many animals, especially dogs, who die on the streets after a hard life.

The alternative Día de los Muertos for dogs and cats is a chance to appreciate them “invisible” Companions and to acknowledge the many lives lost without a voice or a place to remember. By remembering all pets on this day, people can honor the loyalty and love of animals both with and without homes.

How to Prepare 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 into your life. While a pet altar can follow 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: Place a photo of your pet to bring their memory into the room.
• Candles: Candles light the path to the return of souls and can be chosen in colors that reflect your pet's personality.
• Marigolds: Called “Cempasúchil” in Spanish, these flowers guide the soul with their scent and bright color.
• food and water: Provide your pet's favorite treats, food or water and offer them one last meal to enjoy.
• Toys and personal items: Add your pet's favorite toys, collars or other special items to make the altar a personal tribute.
• Copal incense: Copal incense purifies the environment and creates a celebratory space of remembrance.

This altar not only celebrates your pet's life, but also provides a symbolic connection to their spirit and honors the unique memories they shared.

The deep connection between dogs and Día de Muertos

In Mexican pre-Hispanic culture, dogs were considered crucial companions in the journey after death. According to old beliefs Xoloitzcuintle dogs led the souls of the deceased to the underworld or Mictlán. The ancient custom was to bury the deceased 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 loyal Xoloitzcuintle dog, accompanies Miguel into the world of the dead.

Dante's role reflects the enduring belief that dogs, particularly the Xoloitzcuintle breed, serve as guides to souls on their journey to the afterlife, providing a bridge between the world of the living and the dead.

Honoring Pets on Día de los Muertos: A Tradition That's Expanding

This emerging Día de Muertos for pets shows how traditions can grow to include all beloved family members, even those with fur, feathers or scales. Whether you choose October 27th or November 3rd, 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 endures beyond their death.

TYT Newsroom