Eder Alexis Vela Rangel, 42, was deported from the United States, where he had lived for the past two years in El Paso, Texas. After his deportation, he began his journey back to Xalapa, Veracruz, accompanied by his three dogs: Chule, Emiliano, and Toni. The Veracruz native recounted that he was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents while at work.
He stated that he was held for 48 hours and was subsequently deported across the Ciudad Juárez International Bridge, along with approximately 80 other people, a little over two weeks ago. Originally from the port city of Veracruz, Alexis said he worked at an animal shelter and affirmed that he wouldn’t wish the way he was deported from the United States on anyone, describing the experience as violent and traumatic.
As a result of his arrest and deportation, he lost his home, belongings, and savings, managing to keep only his wallet and identification documents.
After being expelled from the country, Alexis had to wait eight days in Ciudad Juárez for a civil association to help him rescue his dogs and transport them to Mexican territory. In total, the process of reuniting with Chule, Emiliano, and Toni took about 15 days.
Once he managed to recover his pets, he began the journey to Xalapa, traveling in segments of up to 12 hours due to the animals’ needs. However, his progress was halted at the Tampico bus terminal, where ADO bus line personnel denied him access, stating that only two pets per person are allowed.
Alexis asserted that he has all the necessary documentation, including vaccination records, medical certificates, and carriers for his three dogs, and explained that he has been traveling from Ciudad Juárez for four days.
The situation, he explained, is particularly urgent because Chule, a 12-year-old dog, has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy, which must continue this week in the capital of Veracruz. Emiliano and Toni are also rescued dogs from El Paso, Texas.
The man from Veracruz added that he currently has limited financial resources, as he has had to cover various unforeseen expenses during the trip and only has about 500 pesos.
He commented that, although he hopes another federal transportation company will allow him to continue his journey to Veracruz, he appealed to the public and animal lovers to help him with transportation to Xalapa or, if necessary, to a nearby location within the state. He clarified that he does not have the funds to cover gasoline, but he is counting on the solidarity of the community.
Those interested in offering support can call 656 580 0740 or contact him through Facebook, where he appears as Chule Laguna. Alexis was interviewed by local media at the Tampico terminal, where he remains waiting for an alternative that will allow him to continue his journey back to Xalapa.
Source: lasillarota
