Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed new legislation on Thursday that significantly increases penalties for those who abandon pets during natural disasters, a measure that responds to the recent case of a dog rescued from the floods caused by Hurricane Milton.
The law, which will come into effect on October 1, includes penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000 for those responsible for abandoning animals during events such as hurricanes or similar climate emergencies.
During the official event held at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, near Royal Palm Beach, DeSantis held a puppy in his arms while asserting that "Florida will not tolerate cruelty to animals, especially in times of crisis."
The legislation was prompted by the case of Trooper, a bull terrier found chained to a fence during a flood along Interstate 75, near Tampa, during Hurricane Milton. The dog was rescued by a state trooper and later adopted by a couple from Broward County. His former owner was charged with animal cruelty.
Additionally, DeSantis signed a second legislative measure that increases criminal penalties for cases of extreme cruelty against animals, inspired by the case of Dexter, a dog found decapitated in a park in the St. Petersburg area.
This law, which will come into effect on July 1, will allow authorities to impose harsher penalties on those responsible for horrific acts of abuse, expanding the range of sanctions available to prosecutors in cases of serious abuse.
The approval of these laws coincides with the imminent start of the 2025 hurricane season, which begins next week.
Organizations for animal rescue in Florida have praised the decision, emphasizing that many animals are abandoned or left in inhumane conditions during evacuations.
According to Big Dog Ranch Rescue, thousands of pets are rescued each year in the state, many of them in critical situations resulting from neglect during extreme weather events.
With these new laws, Florida positions itself as one of the states with the strictest policies regarding animal protection during emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Animal Protection Laws in Florida
What penalties are established in Florida for abandoning pets during natural disasters?
The new legislation in Florida establishes penalties of up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000 for those who abandon pets during natural disasters, such as hurricanes or similar climate emergencies. This law, which will take effect on October 1, aims to protect animals from cruelty in critical moments.
What was the case that led to the creation of the "Trooper Law" in Florida?
The "Trooper Law" was prompted by the case of a bull terrier named Trooper, who was found chained to a fence during the flooding caused by Hurricane Milton. Trooper was rescued by a state trooper, and his story sparked public outrage, leading to the establishment of this law to classify the abandonment of dogs during natural disasters as a felony.
When will the new animal protection laws take effect in Florida?
The animal protection laws in Florida will come into effect on two different dates: the law that toughens penalties for extreme cruelty towards animals will be implemented on July 1, while the "Trooper Law," which penalizes the abandonment of pets during natural disasters, will take effect on October 1.
What impact is expected from these laws on animal protection in Florida?
These laws are expected to position Florida as one of the states with the strictest policies regarding animal protection during emergencies. By increasing penalties and fines for those who mistreat or abandon animals, the aim is to reduce incidents of animal cruelty, especially during natural disasters, and to promote greater responsibility and awareness among pet owners.
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