Preparing for your pets if you’re facing potential deportation
The stress and uncertainty of facing potential deportation and separation from your pets is overwhelming and difficult. The bond between a person and their companion animal is profound, and we hope the information below is helpful for you.
Here are some ways you can prepare
Identify a backup caregiver. Depending on your circumstances and available support network, consider asking a trusted family member, friend, neighbor or co-worker to assume temporary or permanent care of your pet. Discuss your wishes with them and create a plan detailing how long they should care for your pet until you’re able to reunite with them. This could involve sending your pet to you in the event you’re deported or keeping your pet until you return.
You can also discuss what should happen if reuniting isn’t possible, such as finding a new home for your pet or surrendering them to a local animal shelter if necessary. (Memorize your backup caregiver’s phone number in case you’re detained and your phone is taken away.)
Get your pet’s vaccinations updated. Pets need rabies and distemper shots (called “DHPP” for dogs or “FVRCP” for cats) before entering most countries. If your pet may require boarding at a facility, they may also need to be up-to-date on a Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine. You or someone assisting you may want to research pet boarding facilities in your area to learn what their requirements are. If you’re struggling to afford vaccinations for your pet, these resources may be able to help.
Get your pet microchipped. Having your pet microchipped provides proof of ownership. This assists in reuniting you with your pet if you’re separated. Microchips are a permanent form of identification, unlike collars and tags, which can be removed or lost.
Microchips aren’t location tracking devices. You need a special scanner to detect the chip and read the unique number. (Learn more about microchips here.) Be sure your current contact information is on the microchip record and consider including an emergency contact.
Assemble an emergency pet care kit. Include items such as:
- Food
- Leash and collar with identification tags (learn more about choosing a collar for your dog or cat)
- Pet medical records or the name of your veterinary clinic
- Written care instructions
- Crate or kennel
- Other supplies (litter box, food and water bowls, favorite toys and bed)
Create plans for different scenarios
- Long-term plan. For situations where extended separation is likely, consider writing a document that transfers ownership of your pet to your trusted friend or family member in the event you’re separated for a longer length of time. Be sure they have your written care instructions and can access your pet in your home.
- Short-term plan. For scenarios with moderate timelines, consider designating a friend or family member as a temporary foster home for your pet until you can be reunited. Consider writing a document that gives your trusted friend or family member permission to make medical decisions as needed for your pet. Be sure they have your written care instructions and can access your pet in your home.
- Immediate plan. For urgent circumstances requiring prompt action, the emergency care kit you have assembled will be very helpful. Be aware of legal and logistical timelines. If there’s a possibility of appealing the deportation, review the legal timeline to determine if there’s an opportunity to delay the process and make arrangements for your pet. For more information, check out our resources on emergency planning for pets.
Transportation planning for pets if you’re facing potential deportation
Research pet travel requirements. Visit the USDA’s website for country-specific restrictions and an overview of requirements for pet travel. This resource will tell you whether a health certificate is necessary for your pet to enter any country you’ll be going to.
Health certificates are official documents, issued by a veterinarian, that serve as proof that your pet is in good health and can travel. They’re only valid for 10 days, so be sure that you obtain them within the appropriate time frame or authorize a friend or relative to have a health certificate done in the paperwork you prepare.
- Be sure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and has a registered microchip.
- Prepare the necessary items for transporting your pet, including a kennel or carrier, food and water dishes, and a leash and collar.
- If you need help obtaining a health certificate, vaccines, a microchip or transport supplies, your local animal shelter or low-cost veterinary clinic may be able to help you.
- Contact the consulate or embassy of the destination country for current information about bringing a pet.
Plan for quarantine. Some countries require that pets undergo quarantine upon arrival. Investigate the duration and specific conditions for quarantine in the destination country.
Explore financial and logistical resources. Airlines may charge fees for pet travel, and some may have restrictions based on pet size or breed. Some organizations may assist with pet relocation costs. Crowdfunding platforms, such as GoFundMe and Furlanthropy, may also be an option.
Consider pet relocation services. If you’re unable to find someone to look after your pet, consider professional pet rehoming or relocation services that can assist in finding your pet a new home or transporting them to another country. These services require a travel-approved crate, current vaccination records and a USDA health certificate signed by a veterinarian.
