Locally-Owned in Oakdale and St. Paul, Minnesota

Day of the Dead with Pets

A decorated calavera with a floral bouquet against a vivid orange backdrop.

Día de los Muertos, or The Day of the Dead, is a beautiful tradition of celebrating the lives of loved ones who have passed. It’s a time for family and reflection, which is why many celebrate with vibrant altar displays. Because this is an important holiday to so many, we want to remind pet parents of a few potential pet hazards 

A decorated ofrenda with candles and flowers.

1. Altar Decorations 

The ofrenda, or altar, is the centerpiece of Day of the Dead celebrations. Many families place meaningful photos and mementos to honor loved ones. We recommend keeping your altar in a closed-off room that your pet can’t access. Potential dangers include:  

  • Candles: Lit candles can be knocked over by excited tails or playful paws which may lead to burns or even fires. We recommend using battery-operated, flameless candles to keep pets safe while maintaining the ambiance.
  • Beads, feathers, and ribbons: Pets may chew on these decorative elements which may lead to a choking hazard or intestinal blockage if swallowed.
  • Toxic flowers: Many flowers and plants can be harmful to pets. While marigolds are generally safe, others – like chrysanthemums (mums) and lilies – are highly toxic. If you’re including a loved one’s favorite flowers on your altar, consult the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant Guide to verify the plant is safe for pets. If a flower is toxic, consider using an artificial version or displaying a painting or photo of the plant instead. 

Pan de Muerto on a table with a sugar calavera.

2. Foods 

Whether used as offerings or to enjoy while honoring loved ones, it’s important to remember that many human foods are toxic to pets, including: 

  • Chocolate: The severity of chocolate toxicity depends on the type of chocolate, the amount eaten, and your pet’s weight. The general rule of thumb is: the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is!
  • Coffee: Coffee contains theobromine, which is toxic to pets, so keep all coffee products (brewed, beans, and grounds) out of your pet’s reach.
  • Sweet Treats: In addition to chocolate, calaveras (sugar skulls) can be dangerous to pets because they can cause pancreatitis – like any other sweet treat. Also, some candies or sugar-free baked goods may contain xylitol, a sugarless sweetener that is very toxic to pets.
  • Pan de Muerto: This delicious, symbolic bread served during Day of the Dead is often a family favorite. Keep in mind while baking though that yeast dough is extremely dangerous to pets. If the dough is eaten by your pet before its baked, it can expand in your pet’s stomach which can cause bloating or your pet’s stomach to twist –  a life-threatening condition. Additionally, the yeast ferments, producing alcohol, which can cause alcohol poisoning.
  • Spices and Seasonings: Certain spices commonly used in cooking, such as onions, garlic, and nutmeg, are harmful to pets. Be sure to keep all human food well out of reach! 

A bottle of essential oils in front of purple flowers.

3. Essential Oils 

Many people use essential oils to create a lovely aroma in their homes during Day of the Dead celebrations. However, it’s important to note that essential oils can be unsafe for pets. Oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, and citrus are toxic to animals and can cause skin irritation if applied directly. Additionally, these oils can lead to respiratory distress in pets. If you have a bird, it’s crucial to avoid diffusing essential oils or other strong fumes, as birds have highly sensitive airways and can be easily affected. 

A decorated ofrenda with a framed photo of a senior dog.

Honoring Deceased Pets on the Day of the Dead 

In addition to keeping pets safe during this holiday, we want to remind pet parents that Day of the Dead is also an opportunity to pay tribute to our pets who have died. Here are a few suggestions on how to incorporate your pet into your family’s ofrenda: 

  • Place a photo of your pet on the altar to honor their memory.
  • Include one of their favorite items such as a toy, blanket, or collar on the altar to symbolize their presence.
  • Add their favorite treat to the ofrenda. 

By remembering our beloved pets during the Day of the Dead, we celebrate the joy and comfort they gave us and keep their memory alive.    

A dog with a purple floral crown on its head.

We hope these tips help keep your pets safe as your family honors deceased loved ones, including your beloved pets. By being cautious of these potential hazards and incorporating thoughtful tributes, you can create a joyful and meaningful celebration.  

The love we share with those who impacted our lives the most (both human and animal) is everlasting, and they remain an important part of our lives and memories. We wish you all a safe Day of the Dead filled with remembrance and cherished moments. 

More Reading: 

Janine Hagen author bio, Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota

Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota, Fast Track Triage, color-coded triage system, pet emergency, Twin Cities emergency vet, Minnesota emergency vet, Saint Paul emergency vet, Oakdale emergency vet

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