Animal welfare groups are urging the Biden administration to take action in response to the large number of abandoned pets at the southern border. Digital has obtained photos and videos from animal advocacy group Boots on the Ground, revealing the dire conditions faced by these abandoned animals in Colony Ridge, Texas. These pets, reportedly left behind by migrants, appear severely neglected or injured.
The surge of illegal immigrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border has resulted in a significant increase in the number of animals being abandoned. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) policies prevent immigrants from bringing their pets inside federal processing centers, forcing them to leave them behind. As a result, thousands of dogs have been left to fend for themselves along the border.
Big Dog Ranch Rescue (BDRR), a dog rescue group, has highlighted the urgent need for intervention. BDRR spokesperson Chase Scott stated that the Biden administration is not adequately addressing the situation and called for support from FEMA. Scott emphasized the importance of spaying and neutering vans to control the overpopulation of abandoned dogs, as well as the provision of transport and medical supplies to aid in their rescue and rehabilitation.
The situation in Colony Ridge has become dire, with reports of starving dogs resorting to eating chickens and livestock. Migrants have been forced to shoot and attack these animals with machetes. The local communities are overwhelmed, and the area is turning into a Third World country with packs of dogs roaming the streets.
BDRR is planning a rescue mission to McAllen, Texas, to save the abandoned dogs in that area. They will also focus on Colony Ridge, which has become ground zero for this issue. Bianca Gracia, president of Latinos for America and Latinos for Trump, emphasized that the abandoned and abused dogs in Colony Ridge are a tragic consequence of elected officials’ open border policies. She called for assistance from the American public to help rescue these voiceless animals.
Animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has received reports that it’s not just dogs and cats being abandoned, but also smaller animals like guinea pigs. PETA is advocating for the Biden administration to allow vaccinated animals or those that can be quarantined into the U.S.
When contacted for comment, the White House referred Digital to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP). CBP stated that they follow CDC guidance regarding the admission of pets into the country. If the pet’s owner is an inadmissible noncitizen in DHS custody and cannot transfer possession to family or friends, CBP works with local officials from animal health services to find placement for the animal during the owner’s custody.
Efforts to address the issue have been ongoing in Colony Ridge. Colony Ridge CEO John Harris stated that the community has donated funds to support spaying, neutering, and housing of animals in collaboration with local organizations. Harris emphasized that the problem is not exclusive to immigrants but stems from irresponsible pet owners who need education on proper animal care.
The Community Property Owners Association of Colony Ridge revealed that This is Houston, a nonprofit organization, has been assisting with animal control in the area since 2021 due to the absence of such services in Liberty County.
The abandonment of pets at the southern border is a pressing issue that requires immediate action. Animal welfare groups, along with concerned citizens, are calling on the Biden administration to address this crisis and provide the necessary support to rescue and care for these abandoned animals.
