03/08/2026
❤️🙏
In late January, a Minneapolis-based animal shelter, The Bond Between, shared a photo of a large, wrinkly-faced gray dog named Chapo.
“This is Chapo. His whole world was changed in an instant. Recently, his dad was deported by ICE, leaving Chapo confused, scared, and displaced. There was no time to prepare. No chance to explain. Just absence,” the organization wrote.
Chapo’s story is unfortunately not unique. As thousands of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who are part of “Operation Metro Surge” continue to sweep across Minnesota and detain thousands, the beloved pets of countless people have been left confused and alone.
They have reported a serious uptick in people seeking the nonprofit’s services, and they have also been helping people proactively set up emergency plans for what to do in the event their family is impacted by ICE.
“We know that behind every request for help is love, fear, and someone doing the best they can in an impossible moment. We will keep showing up to protect those bonds, to offer safe landing places, and to stand with our community when it matters most,” the organization shared on social media this week.
“The goal, if possible, is always reunification because no one should have to choose between their own safety and the animal they love.”
The organization recommends that people who are concerned they might be arrested or detained by ICE identify a trusted loved one or community member who could temporarily care for a pet if something unexpected happens. This also includes sharing important information and resources, like feeding routines, veterinary needs, and other emergency contact information.
And then, The Bond Between can step in when local animal welfare support is needed, like setting up a longer-term respite foster, or surrendering a pet altogether.
