In late January, Minneapolis nonprofit The Bond Between shared a heartbreaking photo of a gray, wrinkly-faced dog named Chapo.
“This is Chapo. His whole world was changed in an instant,” the organization wrote. “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.”
Chapo’s story reflects a growing crisis affecting pets across Minnesota.
Families Detained — Pets Left Behind
As part of “Operation Metro Surge,” agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have conducted widespread detentions in the state. In many cases, beloved pets have been left without their caregivers.
Chapo, just about a year old, initially stayed with a friend of his owner before moving into a foster home. Thankfully, he is safe. However, the shelter emphasized that he is “one of the lucky ones.”
The nonprofit has reported a significant increase in requests for help as families scramble to create emergency plans for their pets.
A Model Built for Crisis
For years, The Bond Between has offered services designed specifically for people facing hardship. These include:
- Respite fostering, allowing temporary placement while owners stabilize their situation
- No-judgment surrenders, ensuring pets are cared for without shame or barriers
- Emergency planning support, helping families prepare for unexpected detentions
Importantly, the organization prioritizes reunification whenever possible.
“The goal, if possible, is always reunification,” the group shared. “No one should have to choose between their own safety and the animal they love.”
They encourage anyone concerned about potential detention to:
- Identify a trusted caregiver in advance
- Share feeding schedules and veterinary records
- Provide emergency contact information
When longer-term support becomes necessary, the nonprofit steps in.
Care Kits for Families Afraid to Leave Home
In addition to fostering services, volunteers have been assembling and distributing emergency pet care kits. These packages include food, treats and toys for families who feel unsafe leaving their homes.
In one afternoon alone, local students helped assemble:
- 150 dog care packets
- 60 cat care packets
The organization described the volunteer effort as a powerful reminder that, despite hardship, the community remains united.
“Our community is suffering… but it’s not broken,” they shared. “Our community is strong.”
Support has also poured in from across the country — and beyond. Donations have arrived from all 50 states and 11 countries.
Pets Are Loved — Not Abandoned
Rachel Mairose, executive director of The Bond Between, told MPR News that the animals arriving at the shelter are clearly cherished.
“These animals have been very well cared for and loved. They are family members,” she said. “Nobody meant to abandon them; it’s the situation that’s causing them to be displaced.”
For now, Chapo and many others remain in foster homes, surrounded by people committed to protecting the bond between pets and their families — even in the most difficult moments.
And while the circumstances are painful, the response has shown something powerful: when families face crisis, communities can step forward to help ensure their animals are never alone.