Mexican couple built an altar for their late dog on the ‘Day of the Dead’ — but their neighbors’ response turned it into something unforgettable

A Mexican couple won hearts with their heartwarming effort to honor their late dog. Yogi had passed away only a few years ago, but the owners were determined to remember him during festivals, even in his absence. When Sandra Manay and her husband, Tom Konik, moved into a new home, they were awaiting a special occasion to celebrate their beloved pet. On Día de Muertos, a.k.a Day of the Dead, the couple set up an altar in tribute to Yogi on October 31, 2025. While they were content with their sweet gesture, they did not expect the unexpected reaction from their new neighbors.  

Manay explained that the couple had planned to move into their current home with Yogi in Hoboken, New Jersey. His unfortunate passing in 2022 was heartbreaking, but the couple made it a tradition to build an altar for their late dog at home every year. However, this year they did something special, not just for their family, but for the entire neighborhood. The couple installed an ofrenda, a decorated altar created to honor and welcome the spirits of the deceased loved ones on Día de los Muertos. “We wanted to create it outdoors and share it with the community. Día de Muertos felt like the right way to honor him and bring his spirit into this space,” she told PEOPLE.  

Konik and Manay got to work and made arrangements for the neighbors to pin photos of their own late pets. They installed a central vintage statue of an Italian greyhound, symbolic of all dogs that have passed away, whereas dozens of frames, mini dog statues, candle holders, vases, and flowers transformed the ofrenda into an ode for dogs. The couple also grew marigolds in their backyard just so they could use fresh flowers throughout the month. Before they knew it, neighbors started pouring in and adorned the altar with memories of their furry friends. “Some neighbors even brought flowers, dog treats, and toys. Those simple gestures made it feel even more special and alive,” Manay noted.  

Soon, the ofrenda became not just a personal celebration but one for all dog lovers and pet owners in the neighborhood of their New Jersey home. As the unique ofrenda attracted more visitors, Sandra Duran (@thesandraduran), a TikTok creator, filmed the heartfelt tribute and shared it online. It quickly went viral and reached an even wider audience, with every viewer applauding the couple’s beautiful gesture. “It feels good to be seen, because animal grief can be so isolating…For some of us, they are part of our families, and losing them can be truly harrowing,” Manay said, acknowledging the deep grief of losing a pet. 

“As a Mexican and a dog mom, this wrecked me. One of the most beautiful ofrendas and altares I’ve seen,” Duran penned in the caption. She admired her neighbors for setting up an ofrenda for dogs who have crossed the rainbow bridge and brought comfort to grieving owners. Every moment was worth cherishing as the couple witnessed several owners stop by, smiling and crying, remembering the special souls. 

You can follow @thesandraduran on TikTok for more videos.