Dog Was Left to Drown in a Hurricane—Now His Rescue Could Change Federal Law. Sign the Petition to Help Make It Happen
Last October, a Bull Terrier later named Trooper was found chained to a pole on the side of Interstate 75 as Hurricane Milton approached. As floodwaters crept to his chest, a Florida Highway Patrol trooper rescued him—captured on bodycam footage that quickly went viral. The 5-year-old dog had starved, ingesting over two pounds of trash to survive.
That harrowing rescue inspired Trooper’s Law (Florida Senate Bill 150), signed into law by Governor DeSantis on May 28, 2025. The law classifies abandoning or restraining pets during natural disasters as a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. It includes safeguards such as requiring adequate food, water, shelter, and exercise during emergencies.
SIGN THE PETITION urging Congress to pass a Federal Law for disaster protection of pets.
The Life Behind the Law
Trooper’s journey from hero-rescue to beloved family member is nothing short of iconic. Rescued by the patrol and cared for by the Leon County Humane Society, he was adopted in December by Frank and Carla Spina. Despite health scares—including cancer and a stomach full of garbage—Trooper overcame them all and now lives a joyful, thriving life.
His story, echoed in new law and legal precedent, highlights one burning truth: pets deserve protection during crises, not abandonment. The passing of Dexter’s Law at the same time — enhancing penalties for aggravated cruelty — shows collective determination to shield animals from neglect and abuse.
SIGN THE PETITION demanding federal protections for pets during disasters.
Why It Matters Far Beyond Florida
Climate change is intensifying storms, fires, and floods. Trooper’s Law arrives just in time: as of October 1, 2025, those who abandon pets under mandatory or voluntary evacuation orders will face felony charges. This law sets a powerful example for the nation, pushing communities to include pets in emergency planning, sheltering, and rescue strategies .
Trooper’s legacy is concrete: his survival sparked justice—and now his story inspires nationwide change. Yet this is no time for complacency. Let’s keep pushing forward:
Trooper’s Legacy—A National Call to Action
Animal welfare groups applauded Trooper’s story and the new laws. Florida Emergency Manager Alan Harris emphasized the importance of disaster-ready plans that include pets in shelters wesh.com. Meanwhile, rescue networks, veterinary experts, and shelters across the U.S. are eyeing this model closely.
Trooper’s recovery—from floodwaters to sunshine—sends a clear message: We can choose compassion over neglect. Now, it’s time to mobilize that spirit everywhere.
SIGN THE PETITION urging Congress to pass a Federal Trooper’s Law for disaster protection of pets.
Stronger Laws, Stronger Futures
Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law together mark a turning point in Florida. They don’t just punish cruelty—they prevent it. By criminalizing the abandonment of pets during emergencies and tracking offenders via database, Florida sends a crucial message: Animal cruelty will no longer go unchecked.
To truly honor Trooper — and Dexter — we need federal action. Let’s push for a nationwide law that makes abandoning pets during any disaster a serious felony. Together, we can ensure no animal ever endures what Trooper did.
SIGN THE PETITION to demand comprehensive federal disaster protection for pets.
Trooper’s journey from floodbound and forgotten to cherished and protected touches hearts—and changes laws. His story shows the power of individual rescue to spark compassionate, lasting reform. Now, it’s time for the rest of the country to follow Florida’s lead.
To continue speaking up, sign these other petitions as well:
- Convicted Animal Torturer Caught AGAIN—12 Dogs Found Trapped in Filthy Van
- Why 19 U.S. States Still Let People Leave Dogs in Hot Cars
- He Starved, Beat, and Trapped Dogs for Decades. Now, the Public Demands Justice.
- “Rotting on the Porch”: Over 30 Animals Rescued, Public Demands Lifetime Ban & Justice
- Over 50 Animals Rescued From Neglect—Now the Public Demands Justice
