If you are detained suddenly, you may not have time to make arrangements for your pets. This section describes what may happen to your pets if you are detained or deported, and what steps you can take to protect them.
You have several options, which are described below. The best option for you will depend on your individual circumstances, including the type of pet you have, your financial situation, and whether you plan to return to the United States.
When You Do Not Have an Emergency Pet Care Plan:
Pets left in rental properties and landlord coordination
If you rent your home or apartment, your lease may have provisions about pets. If you are detained or deported and your pet is left in your rental property, your landlord may have the right to remove the pet after a certain period of time. You should arrange for your pet caretaker to retrieve your pet from your home as quickly as possible. You should also consider informing your landlord of your situation and asking them to cooperate with your caretaker. If possible, give your caretaker a key to your home in advance so they can access it quickly in an emergency.
Animal control and shelter procedures
If your pet is left without care and no one is available to retrieve them, animal control authorities may take your pet to a local animal shelter. Animal control procedures vary by city and county. In general, animal control officers have the authority to enter a property and remove an animal that appears to be abandoned or in distress. Once your pet is taken to a shelter, the shelter will hold your pet for a period of time before making them available for adoption or, in some cases, euthanizing them. You should contact your local animal control authority to find out the specific procedures and time limits in your area.
Time limits for retrieving pets
If your pet is taken to an animal shelter, there is usually a limited period of time during which you or your caretaker can retrieve your pet before the shelter makes them available for adoption or takes other action. This period varies by jurisdiction but is often between three and seven days for stray animals, and may be longer for owner-surrendered animals. You should contact your local animal shelter as soon as possible to find out the time limits that apply, and to arrange for your caretaker to retrieve your pet. Your caretaker may need to provide proof of ownership, such as vaccination records or a microchip registration, to retrieve your pet.
Costs and fees for shelter care or boarding
If your pet is taken to an animal shelter or boarding facility, there may be fees for the care your pet receives while in their custody. These fees may include daily boarding fees, veterinary care fees, and redemption fees. You should be aware of these potential costs and make financial arrangements in advance to ensure that your caretaker has access to funds to pay them. If you are unable to pay the fees, you should contact the shelter to discuss your options, as some shelters may waive or reduce fees in cases of financial hardship.
When You Do Have an Emergency Pet Care Plan:
Notifying back up/emergency caretakers of detention
If you are detained, it is important to notify a trusted caretaker as quickly as possible. You should ask the ICE officer to allow you to make a phone call to your pet caretaker. If you are unable to reach your pet caretaker, you should try to reach your backup caretaker or another trusted friend or family member. You should give your caretaker the following information:
- That you have been detained and the name and location of the facility where you are being held;
- Instructions to follow your emergency pet care plan; and
- Any other information your caretaker needs to access your home and care for your pet.