Trooper’s Law to protect dogs during hurricanes now in effect

A new law to protect dogs in natural disasters is taking effect as hurricane season continues.

“Trooper’s Law” creates a new enhanced animal cruelty offense for leaving a dog tied up outside during a hurricane, tropical storm, tornado warning or evacuation order. If convicted, a person could face up to five years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

SB 150 was inspired by a dog’s dramatic rescue during Hurricane Milton that went viral last year.

“Across Florida, we have seen horrifying instances of animal cruelty that demand a stronger response,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a statement when he signed the legislation May 28. 

The 5-year-old bulldog terrier was tied up to a fence off Interstate 75 near Tampa as the floodwaters rose up to the dog’s chest.

A state trooper rescued the abandoned dog and images of the animal’s narrow escape took off on social media, promoting lawmakers to take action against negligent pet owners.

“The video is very heartbreaking,” said Rep. Griff Griffitts, who sponsored the House version, during the committee process.

The dog, dubbed “Trooper” after his rescuer, was adopted into a new home. His previous owner who tried to reclaim him was charged with aggravated animal cruelty.

It’s unknown how often people abandon their dogs during weather emergencies, according to Senate staff analysis of the bill.

SB 150 also codifies penalties for failing to provide confined animals with sufficient food, water, and exercise, and for abandoning an animal, as misdemeanors of the first degree, with similar fines, according to DeSantis’ Office.

Florida Smart Justice Alliance, the Humane Society of the United States and Florida Animal Control Association all backed the new legislation.

“Sometimes we get to do a good thing about a bad thing, and that’s this bill,” said Sen. Don Gaetz, the Senate sponsor, as the Legislature passed the bill in April.