For a couple of years it has become fashionable to put altars of the dead for pets. During the pandemic, this Mexican tradition went viral on TikTok and Instagram and imitated around the world.
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Day of the Dead is a mix of indigenous and Catholic traditions, and is an opportunity to celebrate the lives of those who are no longer with us. The colorful offerings, sugar skulls and marigold flowers are key elements of this festival. In addition, it is an occasion to gather as a family, tell stories and share food in honor of the deceased.
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Altars for the dead are set up for pets in Mexico to honor and remember animals that have passed away. There is no specific date in the saints to remember the lomitos and michis that we have loved, but generally their offering is placed on October 27.
Why are altars for the dead set up for pets?
This is done as part of the celebration of the Day of the Dead, the most famous traditional holiday in Mexico. During this time, it is believed that the spirits of loved ones return from the afterlife to be with their families. Therefore, altars are built with objects and foods that the deceased used to like, including pets, to receive and celebrate their spiritual presence.
It is a way to show love and respect for the pets that were part of people’s lives and are now believed to be visiting during this holiday.
Do I have to be Mexican to set up an altar for the dead for my pets?
You don’t have to be Mexican to set up an altar for your pets or any other loved one who has passed away. The celebration of the Day of the Dead is a holiday that has become popular in many parts of the world, and anyone of any cultural background or nationality can participate and create an altar to honor their loved ones, including pets.
The idea behind an altar of the dead is to remember and celebrate the lives of those who are no longer with us, and to show them love and respect. If you have pets that have died and you want to make an altar in their memory, you can do so regardless of your origin or nationality. Creating the altar is a personal expression of love and remembrance, and the most important thing is to do it with sincerity and respect for your deceased pets.
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How to make altars for the dead for pets
Creating a pet altar for the dead is a beautiful way to honor and remember your furry friends who have passed away. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Necessary materials
- A table or flat surface.
- A confetti tablecloth in traditional colors (orange, purple or white).
- Candles (preferably orange, yellow or white).
- Photographs of your deceased pets.
- Sugar skulls or paper mache.
- Chinese paper or colored confetti.
- Incense or copal.
- Cempasuchil flowers (or other seasonal flowers).
- Food and drink that your pets used to like (this can be food for cats, dogs, birds, etc.).
- Water.
Steps to create the altar
1. Choose an appropriate place
Choose a quiet and safe place to set up the altar. It can be a table in your house or some other significant place.
2. Place the tablecloth
Cover the table with the chopped paper tablecloth.
3. Add photos
Place photographs of your deceased pets in the center of the altar or in a prominent place. If you have several pets, you can place several photos.
4. Candles
Place candles around the photographs. Light the candles in memory of your pets. Make sure they are secure and there is no danger of them falling or lighting anything nearby on fire.
5. Sugar skulls
If you have sugar skulls or paper mache, place them on the altar to represent the spirits of your pets.
6. Shredded paper
Place colorful shredded paper on the wall or around the altar to add color and joy.
7. Incense or copal
Light incense or copal to purify the space and attract the spirits of your pets.
8. Flowers
Place marigold flowers around the altar. Flowers are an important element on Day of the Dead, as they are believed to guide spirits back to life.
9. Offerings of food and drink
Choose the food and drink that your pets used to like at the altar. This will allow them to enjoy their favorite flavors in the afterlife.
10. Water
Place a container of water on the altar so that the souls of your pets can quench their thirst.
11. Prayers and memories
Take a moment to remember your pets and say prayers or loving words in their honor.
12. Reflection time
During the Day of the Dead, it is common to spend time at the altar, reflect on happy memories with your pets, and honor their memory.
Remember that pet altars are a personal way to remember and honor your loved ones. You can add additional elements or modify the altar according to your personal preferences and beliefs. The most important thing is to do it with love and respect for your deceased pets.
Editorial Team The editorial team of EMPRENDEDOR.com, which for more than 27 years has worked to promote entrepreneurship.