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Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda Memorial Fundraiser
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a spiritual holiday tracing back to the traditions of the Aztec, Toltec, and Nahua people. It’s a vibrant celebration of life, death, and the sacred cycle that connects us all. During this time, families honor the memory of loved ones who have passed, celebrating their lives and the joy they brought to those around them. Increasingly, October 27 has become a day to specifically remember pets who have touched our lives, bringing us comfort, laughter, and love.
From October 31 through November 2, families traditionally clean cemeteries and construct ofrendas, or altars, adorned with photos, favorite foods, drinks, and cherished items to honor the lives of those no longer with us. These altars reflect the bright colors, music, food, and joyous dancing that celebrate the spirits who are believed to return during this special time.
Join Us in Remembering Our Beloved Pets
This year, Friends of El Paso Animal Services invites you to participate in our Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda Memorial Fundraiser. We will be creating beautiful altars at all three El Paso Animal Services locations:
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Main Shelter Location: 5001 Fred Wilson - 79906
Hours: 11 AM - 6 PM -
Westside Adoption Center: 5625 Confetti Dr. - 79912
Hours 12 PM - 6 PM -
Mission Valley Center: 9060 Socorro Rd. - 79907
Hours 12 PM - 5 PM
These ofrendas will honor the cherished pets who have shared their lives with us and left lasting paw prints on our hearts. Each altar will be adorned with tributes, memories, and stories, celebrating the joy and companionship these animals have given us.
Support the Journey of Homeless Animals
In honoring those who have touched our lives, we invite you to help support homeless animals still on their journey. Your donation to the Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda Memorial Fundraiser will directly benefit Friends of El Paso Animal Services, enabling us to provide food, shelter, and medical care to animals in need.
Whether you donate in memory of a beloved pet or simply to help those who await their forever homes, your contribution ensures these animals are cared for as they continue their journeys. Join us in creating a beautiful tribute to our departed companions while helping others find the joy of companionship.
How to Participate:
Make a gift in memory of your beloved and email contact@friendsofepas.org a photo of the pet(s) you would like to celebrate and honor on any of our altars. Please include your pet's name, story, and a fond memory.
Please note, that November 1 will be the last day to get your photos in for us to print, and/or share on social media virtual ofrendas. We invite you to feel free to come by and see any of our Dia de los Muertos altars at any of our locations on October 27 - November 2 between 12 PM - 5 or 6 PM.
We welcome those who prefer to bring an in-person donation on those days and place a photo or item on the altar.
While you're visiting, take time to meet all our wonderful adoptable pets who are eagerly awaiting to find their furever homes and families or browse El Paso Animal Services' Adoptable Pets page. Consider opening your hearts and homes to the many pets waiting for adoption.
IN MEMORIAM
Lucas
Lucas came to us through El Paso Animal Services as a hospice foster, a gentle soul who brought immeasurable love and warmth into our lives from the very first day. Though his time with us was brief, it was filled with countless cherished moments and deep, unbreakable bonds. He was more than just a pet; he was family.
Lucas, you were very much loved, and you will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
With love and remembrance,
Veronica & Eury
Bella
Bella came to us from El Paso Animal Services, arriving at the shelter scared and matted, but full of potential for a brighter life. When we brought her home, she blossomed, showing us her warmth and gentle spirit. Bella found joy in the company of "her cats" and quickly claimed her spot as a cherished member of our family. Her loving presence will be forever missed but never forgotten. Rest well, sweet Bella—you will always be in our hearts.
With love,
Veronica & Eury
Pinky Molina
Loved and forever in Yvette's heart.
Regina
Regina came into our lives as a three-month-old pup, adopted from a shelter in Homestead Meadows. From the very first moment, she filled our days with joy, warmth, and the sweetest companionship. Though her time with us was brief—only two precious years—Regina left an indelible mark on our hearts.
One of our favorite memories was her love for cuddling. Each night, Regina would nestle above our heads or even settle between us, always finding her place close to us, sharing her warmth and love. Her presence brought comfort and happiness, a bond that words can scarcely capture.
This June, we had to say goodbye as she crossed the Rainbow Bridge, taken from us by cancer. Though she is no longer by our side, her spirit, love, and those beautiful memories will stay with us forever. Rest peacefully, sweet Regina.
We will always love you.
Corina and Rudy Rivera
Smokey
Smokey came into our lives in the most unexpected way, discovered as a tiny newborn in the back of an ambulance at work. From that very moment, we knew he was special, and we couldn't leave him behind. So, along with his brother, we brought him home and welcomed him into our hearts and family.
Though Smokey's time with us was brief, it was filled with all the love and care we could give. He may have only had a few weeks, but every moment was precious. One memory we’ll hold onto forever is how he would scream in his tiny, squeaky way whenever we gave him a bath. He absolutely hated it, but to us, it was beyond adorable, a moment that brought us so much joy and laughter.
Smokey may have left us too soon, but his little spirit will forever stay with us. We cherish the short time we shared, knowing he felt safe and loved every step of the way.
Rest in peace, sweet Smokey. You will always be in our hearts.
-Corina and Rudy Rivera
Pet's Name
In Loving Memory
Pet's Name
In Loving Memory
Pet's Name
In Loving Memory