Just a few months ago, Chloe was wandering the streets of Deming, New Mexico, and came close to being euthanized at a shelter. Today, she is part of the United States Border Patrol and provides emotional support to agents, families, and individuals going through traumatic situations.
On May 15, 2026, Chloe became the first rescue dog to graduate from the Canine Academy of the Border Patrol as a critical incident response dog, according to a report this Wednesday by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Her story began to change at the end of January when she was taken in by the Deming County Humane Society. Less than two weeks later, Chloe was placed on the list of animals that would be euthanized.
The El Paso Animal Rescue League intervened and brought her to their facilities on February 10. There, Loretta Hyde, the founder of the organization, recognized her qualities and decided to nominate her for the CBP canine program.
Just three months later, Chloe completed five weeks of training at the Canine Academy of El Paso, where she received instruction in obedience, crisis response, and working alongside her handler.
On May 15, she was sworn in by Stephen D. Crump, director of the Canine Academy, a fact that set a precedent within the Border Patrol.
Since then, he has been working alongside Agent Miguel Carrillo, assigned to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and can be deployed throughout the Gulf Coast region.
Her work is very different from that of dogs used to detect drugs or locate people. Chloe's mission is to provide emotional support and help reduce the stress and anxiety of those facing traumatic experiences or going through grief.
"The story of Chloe is a powerful reminder that with patience, purpose, and a second chance, extraordinary things can be achieved," said Carrillo. "She is dedicated to those who serve our nation, and her work is already making a significant difference."
One of their missions took place after the on-duty death of deputy sheriff Drew Hanson on July 13 in Alexandria, Louisiana. Chloe and Carrillo attended the funeral services and supported the widow, the children, the parents, and the colleagues of the officer.
The dog has also visited hospitals to accompany patients with serious illnesses and individuals receiving palliative care.
The program to which Chloe belongs emerged after the shooting that occurred at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, in 2022, where 21 people lost their lives. The Border Patrol then identified the need to provide greater support to agents exposed to traumatic events.
"The story of Chloe reflects the best of service, resilience, and compassion," said Adam Calderon, acting chief of the Border Patrol in the New Orleans Sector. "Chloe embodies the power of second chances."
For a dog that a few months ago was on a euthanasia list, that second chance meant much more than just finding a home: Chloe ended up making history within the U.S. Border Patrol.
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