Tara A. Spears
While November 1st, Dia de Muertos, is the date that people honor their loved departed by decorating altars in the hopes that the deceased’s spirit will visit, October 27 is dedicated to remembering loved animals, too. November 2nd is dedicated to the deceased babies and children. During this week, families create altars, known as ofrendas, adorned with candles, marigolds, photos, mementos, and favorite foods, drinks and other enjoyed items of the deceased. These offerings invite spirits to return for a visit, filling the atmosphere with joy and remembrance rather than sorrow.
For many people, having a fur baby in their life is key to their happiness. The dog-cat-hamptster-horse-goat- is more than an animal, it is family. Therefore, when the beloved fur baby goes over the rainbow, its human is left with a hole in their heart. On this October 27, honor your beloved pet by making a donation ‘in memory of…’ to one of the local animal welfare groups, The Hilltop Refuge, Lorretta Leavitt, 327 274 3263, or Jaltemba Bay Animal Resources Society, send a FB message to Andrea Burger. It won’t bring back your buddy but he/she will be smiling as you share some of your love with the homeless, less fortunate animals in our community by donating. The Hilltop Refuge has Tuesday and Saturday morning visiting or by appointment. The JBARS group is holding its next free spay neuter-clinic on Saturday, November 22 – Tuesday, November 25. Both groups are vital to the community and welcome volunteers.
As JBARS committee member, Donna Llyod explains, “Honoring our beloved pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge is part of the current Day of the Dead traditions. October 27 is designated as the day when the animals’ souls are believed to return. Many families create an altar with their pets’ favorite foods, toys, and photos, similar to altars for human family members, to remember them and welcome their spirits. In memory of your passed pet, please consider an ‘in memory of’ donation to JBARS to help us continue to help those in need. https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/donation-form/donate-to-change-lives-2994 or message Andrea Burger.
One of the most vibrant expressions of Día de los Muertos in the Jaltemba Bay towns of Los Ayala, Rincon de Guayabitos and La Penita, can be seen in the local town parades that end in the plaza. A comparsa is a traditional street procession that features dancers, musicians, and costumed participants, a wonderful spectacle. Check for the starting time on social media.
I was excited to learn that dogs (Xolos) are very important in the celebration of Dia de Mureto, along with La Catrina, a female skeleton elegantly dressed; Calacas (skeletons); amd calaveras (skulls). canines are believed to play a special role in the afterlife. Xoloitzcuintli, also known as Xolos or Mexican Hairless Dogs, are revered as spirit guides to the kingdom of the dead. Dogs are also well represented in the decor and pageantry of the festival.
Sugar skulls in the shape of dogs, canine artwork and even costumed pooches are common sights on Day of the Dead. Tradition says that the izcuintle puppy is the one that helps souls cross the flowing Chiconauhuapan River, which is the last step to reach the Mictlán/heaven, therefore Itzxuintli is a hero.
This holiday serves as a poignant reminder that death is not an end, but a transition, encouraging us to cherish our memories and the legacies of those who have come before us. By participating in Día de Muertos, we can honor the past while keeping the spirit of our loved ones alive in our hearts. Share your love for your furbaby by contributing to our local animal shelters in their name.
