Chloe’s remarkable journey began on the streets of Deming, New Mexico, where the two‑and‑a‑half‑year‑old black Schnauzer‑Poodle mix was found abandoned. The Deming County Humane Society, a high‑kill shelter, slated her for euthanasia within two weeks after her intake on Jan. 29.
Animal Rescue League of El Paso volunteers intervened just in time, rescuing Chloe before she could be put down. Founder Loretta Hyde immediately saw the dog’s intelligence and calm temperament, qualities that would later prove invaluable in a federal service role.
From Shelter to Border Patrol Academy
Chloe was selected for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Critical Incident Response (CIR) canine program, a specialized track created after the tragic May 24, 2022, mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz launched the program to give agents, staff and their families emotional support during traumatic events.
The CIR mission is to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, improve morale, and help families process grief after critical incidents. Certified CIR canines are deployed alongside handlers to provide comfort during crises, and they receive support from chaplains and peer‑support teams.
Graduation and First Assignment
On May 15, Chloe became the first rescue dog to graduate from the Border Patrol Canine Academy in El Paso, earning the title of CIR canine. Academy Director Stephen Crump formally swore her into the role that day.
Her first posting sent her and handler Border Patrol Agent Miguel Carrillo to the CBP New Orleans Sector, Baton Rouge Station, which oversees seven states, more than 592 counties and parishes, and over 362,000 square miles. The sector’s duties include crew‑man control, transportation checks, traffic observation, employer sanctions and the apprehension of illegal foreign nationals.
Serving Those Who Serve
Agent Carrillo describes Chloe as a “calm and supportive team” member. Whenever he signals her to “go say hi,” she approaches patients, families and fellow agents with affection, helping open doors for personal communication and emotional connection.
Since deployment, Chloe has traveled throughout the Gulf Coast, visiting hospitals to comfort patients recovering from severe illness or receiving hospice care. She also provided solace after the line‑of‑duty death of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson, offering support to his wife, children, parents and colleagues.
Why the Story Matters
Chloe’s success illustrates the power of second chances and the vital role of compassionate service animals in federal agencies. Her presence not only aids agents coping with trauma but also brings hope to families facing loss and hardship.
“Chloe’s journey is a powerful reminder that with patience, purpose and a second chance, extraordinary things are possible,” Agent Carrillo said. “She is serving those who serve our nation, and her work is already making a meaningful difference.”
CBP New Orleans Sector Chief Patrol Agent Adam Calderon echoed that sentiment, noting that Chloe’s story “represents the power of second chances” and shows how rescue dogs can inspire, heal and change lives.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
