Pet Ofrenda: A Day of the Dead Altar for Your Pet
More and more families make a small ofrenda for the dogs, cats and other animals they have lost. Make a memorial card below, print a paw-print banner, and find out what to put on the altar.
Make a card for their ofrenda
Pet papel picado templates
Three free designs made for pet altars: paw prints, dog bones and a cat with fish. Each one has a printable PDF, a folding guide and shape stencils.
When to set it up
Many people remember pets on October 27, before the days for children (November 1) and adults (November 2). Set up the ofrenda in the last week of October and leave it until November 2.
What to put on a pet ofrenda
- A photo of your pet, the heart of the altar.
- Water and food: their bowl, a few treats or kibble.
- Favorite things: collar, tag, toy, blanket or leash.
- Marigolds (cempasúchil) to guide them home.
- Candles — use LED candles if other pets or kids are around.
- Papel picado — try the free pet paw template.
- Their name, written on a card or on a small sugar skull.
Keep candles, flowers and treats out of reach of the pets you still have.
A mini or shoebox ofrenda
- Stand a shoebox on its side and line the inside with tissue paper.
- Glue a strip of mini papel picado across the top (print the template at 50%).
- Put the printed memorial card at the back, then add a tiny bowl, a toy and paper marigolds.
- Add an LED tea light in front.
Questions
Is it OK to make an ofrenda for a pet?
Yes. Día de los Muertos is about remembering those we love, and many Mexican families now include their animals. Keep it heartfelt and learn about the tradition — our page on papel picado meaning is a good start.
Can my pet share the family ofrenda?
Yes. Many families put pets on a lower level of the same altar; others make a separate small one.
Are my photos uploaded?
No. The card is made in your browser and your photo never leaves your device.