Communities Honor Pets in Día de los Muertos

Animal welfare groups and community members in Nebraska, California, Kansas and Texas marked October 27 by honoring pets who have died, reflecting a Día de los Muertos tradition that pets’ spirits return before human loved ones. Ofrendas featured pets’ photos alongside treats, toys, water, candles and other offerings, with several events inviting the public to contribute and remember animals as family. Organizers said the gatherings offer a way to share memories, grieve and find community; in Merriam, Kansas, the altar will remain open to visitors through November 4. The broader Día de los Muertos observance follows in early November, with dates described somewhat differently across the reports.