Source: Gulf Coast News
As hurricane season begins, Florida has enacted two new laws to protect animals during natural disasters. Prompted by the viral rescue of a dog named Trooper—found tied to a fence as Hurricane Milton approached—Gov. Ron DeSantis signed “Trooper’s Law,” making it a felony to abandon or improperly restrain pets during declared emergencies. Violators face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
A second measure, “Dexter’s Law,” establishes a statewide registry of convicted animal abusers and enforces stricter penalties for aggravated abuse. These laws aim to prevent repeat offenders from adopting pets and to enhance overall animal safety. Shelter managers and rescuers have praised the legislation as a vital step forward. Officials also remind pet owners to prepare for storms by securing essentials like food, shot records, and travel crates. With these laws, Florida emphasizes that abandoning pets during disasters is not only neglectful—it’s now a serious crime.