Unaware of the strict rules, the migrants abandon their dogs at the US-Mexico border, forcing them to survive in harsh conditions. As the ongoing migrant crisis in the United States dominates the 2024 presidential election, pet dogs travel thousands of miles to the US-Mexico border with their migrant owners, only to become homeless. According to federal processing centers, animals must follow border regulations when crossing the border.
Unaware of the strict rules, migrants abandon their dogs at the southern border, forcing them to survive in harsh conditions.
According to the New York Post, several domestic dog breeds were spotted “wandering on both sides of the border at Eagle Pass, Texas” earlier this month.
To enter the United States, these dogs must have a rabies vaccination certificate and a valid microchip
While only a few of the dogs were injured, others appeared scared when they were simply given a dish of water. They had no choice but to scrounge for food among the barbed wire along the border because they were starving, according to the report.
To enter the United States, these dogs must have a rabies vaccination certificate and a valid microchip. The number of canines on the border is increasing as abandoned dogs give birth to new puppies.
If an owner refuses to give up ownership to friends or family, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) “works with local officials from animal health services, such as a local humane shelter, to see if there can be placement for the animal while its owner remains in custody,” a CBP spokesperson told The Post.
John Rouke, a veteran who has led previous animal rescue operations along the southern border, described the situation as “heartbreaking”.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) confirmed reports that migrants are bringing animals to the US border, including “as varied as guinea pigs and small dogs.”
PETA is urging the Biden administration to allow animals into the United States “if they are vaccinated or can be quarantined” to reunite them with their loved ones, according to the organization’s spokesperson, Catie Cryar.
Last September, a dog named ‘Oso’ was detained by US authorities and then returned to Mexican territory. Tourists abandoned him on one of Tijuana’s beaches. Later, he was adopted by local shopkeepers, as Marca reported.