Detainment and Deportation Fears: What Pet Owners Should Know

If you or someone you know is at risk of ICE detention, having a clear plan for your pets can prevent them from being left without care. Here’s a compassionate, practical guide to help ensure your furry (or feathered) family members are safe.

1. Assign a Trusted Caregiver
   • Choose a reliable friend, family member or neighbor who can take immediate custody of your pet.
   • Give them written permission to make veterinary and care decisions.
   • Share your pet’s daily routine, feeding schedule, and any special needs.
   • Share house keys, alarm codes, or other entry information with the designated
     caregiver.
2. Prepare a Pet Emergency Kit
   • Include:
   • 3 – 7 days of food and bottled water
   • Medications with instructions
   • Leash, collar, harness and ID tags
   • Carrier or crate
   • Copies of vaccination records and microchip info
   • Comfort items (blanket, toy)
   • If possible, set aside money for pet care expenses, such as food, veterinary
     visits or grooming services.
3. Keep Identification & Records Updated
   • Ensure your pet’s microchip is registered with current contact info.
   • Assemble critical veterinary records in both physical and digital form, including
     proof of vaccinations and any medical histories, to aid caregivers or shelters if
     the pet requires medical attention.
   • Attach a tag with your caregiver’s phone number as a backup.
4. Create a Written Care Plan
   • Outline feeding, exercise, and medical needs.
   • Include your vet’s contact information.
   • Store copies with your caregiver, in your home and in a safe place.
5. Inform Your Support Network
   • Let neighbors or community members know who to contact if you’re detained.
   • Consider joining local pet foster or rescue networks that can step in temporarily.
6. Legal & Housing Considerations
   • If possible, include pet care instructions in your legal documents (e.g., power
     of attorney).
   • Check if your caregiver’s housing allows pets to avoid last-minute issues.
   • Let them know about local animal welfare resources, including Animal Friends,
     in case they need additional help or need to pursue surrender.

Having a plan does not mean that you expect the worst – it means you are protecting your pet no matter what.

Important contact information for Animal Friends:

General Information: 412.847.7000
Community Programs: 412.847.7012
Contact for: Pet Food/Supplies/Veterinary Support
Admissions Department: 412.847.7061
Contact for: Pet Surrender/Pet Rehoming

To request support visit our website at: https://form.jotform.com/doobertrescue/animal-friends-pet-retention

Spanish Version: https://thinkingoutsidethecage.org/si-le-preocupa-que-usted-o-un-ser-queridopueda-ser-detenido-o-deportado/