The mass emigration of Cubans has separated not only human families but also their beloved pets. Many leave dogs and cats behind with relatives, while others try to take them along despite the high costs of procedures. Stories of abandonment and animal loyalty illustrate the pain of these separations.
For years, Cuban emigration has caused painful family separations, leaving behind parents, siblings, and children in the hope of reuniting soon. However, this migration also affects another key family member: pets. In the best cases, dogs and cats are left with relatives or in their homes to minimize suffering, but during the Special Period of the 1990s, many purebred dogs ended up abandoned on the streets in poor condition.
The article's author, Nike, shares her experience adopting two cats: one from her cousin and another from a neighbor who moved abroad, wandering the neighborhood in search of shelter. These animals have adapted well to her home and are very affectionate.
A friend of Nike plans to take her dachshund when emigrating, but the prices for procedures—including vaccinations and documents—have risen sharply just days ago, making them nearly unaffordable. "I'm not going anywhere without him," says Ana, who is selling everything she can to cover her pet's travel costs.
Abandonment cases are common, like that of Canelo, a friendly little dog whose family left in the 2000s. He stayed in the neighborhood, where neighbors provided food and water, sleeping on porches or in his old house. In contrast, there are positive stories: a dog sent to the countryside returned exhausted after a few days, winning over his grandparents' affection and reclaiming his home.
These episodes raise a question: if pets choose us and love us unconditionally, why do we abandon them? Emigration continues to break bonds, even the most loyal ones.