Animal welfare groups in U.S. cities are overwhelmed caring for pets abandoned during immigration raids. In New Orleans, a Shih Tzu-poodle mix named Heinz was left behind after his owners were deported, highlighting a growing crisis. Federal crackdowns under President Trump's policies have led to hundreds of thousands of arrests nationwide, leaving dogs, cats, and other animals without owners.

Shelters report surges in strays, like a 38% increase in Minnesota and nearly double the surrenders in Los Angeles. Mutual aid groups now deliver food to pets in neighborhoods like New Orleans East, where abandoned animals roam. The transport cost to reunite pets with deported owners can reach $4,500, straining resources further. Shelters are full, routinely euthanizing animals due to lack of space, while rescue groups face a major crisis caring for displaced pets.