Unveiled June 2, 2025 11:33pm EDT
The Impact of Deportation on Animal Shelters in Michigan
WESTLAND, Mich. (FOX 2) - The arrival of summer typically signals a challenging period for animal shelters, which often experience a surge in animals following the spring breeding season.
A New Challenge for shelters
This year, though, these facilities are confronting an unprecedented issue—pets being surrendered as their owners face deportation.
The Background story
This situation is particularly pressing for Michigan Humane in Westland,which has been preparing for this scenario since immigration-related executive orders were enacted earlier this year. Leaders at the institution emphasize the importance of community support during these critical times.
“we have been considering what it woudl mean if a family were to be deported and how that would affect their pets,” explained Doug Plant, COO of michigan Humane.
The Importance of Home Environments for Pets
The primary goal is to find homes for surrendered animals rather than keeping them confined in shelters. “It’s simply healthier for an animal to be placed in a home habitat instead of a shelter,” he noted. “While our facilities are well-maintained and secure like many local shelters, they cannot replicate the comfort and space that comes with being part of a family.”
“Much like visiting a hospital when you’re feeling unwell isn’t ideal,” he added.
Surrender Statistics Amidst Crisis
In recent months alone,Michigan Humane has reported approximately 35 to 50 pet surrenders due to various circumstances including health issues and financial hardships. “These individuals may be grappling with challenges ranging from homelessness to deportation,” Plant stated.
Difficulties in tracking Surrenders Due to Deportation
Monitoring how many pets are surrendered specifically as their owners are being deported poses meaningful challenges—and understandably so. “When crises arise within communities, residents often come together to help each other by taking care of pets left behind; that’s where we aim to step up and provide assistance.”
Aiding Beyond Shelter Services
The support offered extends beyond merely providing shelter; it includes supplying crates, food supplies, and medical care necessary for stabilizing these animals’ health during transitions.”We strive not only to keep them safe but also healthy,” Plant remarked.
Navigating community Outreach Challenges
This situation also presents another hurdle—fear surrounding potential deportations can lead some community members to withdraw from outreach programs. “We’ve noticed this trend consistently across various initiatives we’re involved with,” he mentioned. “People are trying to understand what enforcement actions might look like moving forward while we work on delivering resources effectively.”
facilitating Reunification Efforts Post-Deportation
Additonally,Michigan Humane assists families who wish to take their pets abroad after facing deportation by helping them obtain necessary travel certificates.”In some instances we’ve successfully aided families through this process,” they shared.
Source: Data derived from an interview with the COO of Michigan Humane.
