When Hurricane Milton tore through Florida last October, floodwaters swallowed neighborhoods, roads, and anything in their path—including a dog left chained to a pole beside Interstate 75.
Chest-deep in rising water, the Bull Terrier had no way to escape. That dog, now known as Trooper, didn’t just survive—he became the face of a new Florida law aimed at protecting animals during emergencies.
Senate Bill 150, now known as Trooper’s Law, was passed to hold pet owners accountable for leaving animals behind in life-threatening conditions. The law classifies abandonment during a declared disaster as a third-degree felony, carrying a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine that could reach $10,000.
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This isn’t just a warning—it’s a clear move to treat pet neglect with the seriousness it deserves.
Trooper’s story shook hearts statewide. Rescued by the Florida Highway Patrol and brought to the Leon County Humane Society, he was weak, undernourished, and had nearly two and a half pounds of garbage, plastic, and rubber lodged in his stomach. It’s hard to imagine how long he’d suffered before help arrived. His former owner now faces multiple animal cruelty charges.
Today, Trooper lives a much different life. He was adopted by Frank and Carla Spina, who stepped in to give him the second chance he deserved. In February, they were honored by the Parkland Town Council, a small recognition for their kindness and care.
Local officials are now urging communities to think ahead, not just for themselves, but for the animals who depend on them. Alan Harris, Seminole County’s emergency manager, highlighted the role of preparedness. Counties across Florida, including Seminole, have invested in pet-friendly shelters where families won’t have to make the impossible choice between personal safety and their pets.
Harris also mentioned an emergency pantry available at the county’s Animal Services Facility. It’s stocked with disaster supplies for pet owners who may be caught unprepared. Items are available through donations, making it easier for everyone to plan ahead responsibly.
Instagram | leonctyhumane | Frank and Carla Spina adopted Trooper, providing him with the fresh start he needed.
Keeping animals safe in emergencies isn’t just about compassion—it’s now backed by law. This statute ensures that negligence isn’t dismissed as carelessness. It sets a precedent that animals are not disposable, especially in life-threatening situations.
The visual of Trooper tied to that pole is hard to forget. His survival and recovery represent more than just resilience—they pushed the needle on animal welfare policy. Trooper’s new home, health, and the love he receives now are possible because someone acted—and because the law now does, too.
When natural disasters strike, the chaos doesn’t excuse cruelty. With Trooper’s Law in effect, there’s now a strong legal foundation reinforcing what many already believe: animals are family. The message is clear—if you stay, take them with you. If you leave, make sure they’re safe.
Whether it’s through accessible shelters, emergency supplies, or legal penalties, Florida is sending a strong message. Pets deserve protection. And now, the law ensures they get it.