A Florida State Trooper’s heroic rescue of an abandoned dog tied to a pole during Hurricane Milton has sparked outrage and a promise of justice from Governor Ron DeSantis.
At a Glance
- Florida Highway Patrol rescued a dog tied to a pole on I-75 as Hurricane Milton approached.
- The dog was found standing in chest-deep water, growling and barking.
- Governor Ron DeSantis condemned the act and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.
- The rescued dog received a clean bill of health from a veterinarian.
- Officials urged Tampa Bay residents to evacuate, emphasizing the importance of including pets in evacuation plans.
Heroic Rescue Amid Hurricane Chaos
As Hurricane Milton, a powerful Category 3 storm, bore down on Florida’s west coast, a Florida Highway Patrol trooper demonstrated extraordinary compassion by rescuing a dog abandoned in perilous conditions. The white bull terrier was discovered tied to a pole along Interstate 75 in Tampa, standing in chest-deep water as the hurricane approached.
Body camera footage captured the tense moments as the trooper approached the frightened animal. Despite the dog’s initial growling and barking, the officer’s calm demeanor prevailed. “It’s OK, buddy,” the trooper reassured, “I don’t blame you. It’s OK, buddy. It’s OK.”
Governor DeSantis Promises Justice
The incident quickly caught the attention of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who took to social media to condemn the act of animal cruelty and praise the trooper’s actions. In a strong statement, DeSantis declared, “It is cruel for anyone to leave a dog tied to a post in the middle of an oncoming storm. FL will hold anyone who mistreats pets accountable.”
The governor’s response underscores Florida’s commitment to animal welfare, even in the face of natural disasters. At a press conference, DeSantis further emphasized the state’s stance, asking rhetorically, “What kind of an animal would just leave a dog chained to a pole in the middle of a hurricane? It’s just unbelievable.”
A Call for Responsible Pet Ownership
The Florida Highway Patrol used this incident to issue a stern warning to pet owners. “Do NOT do this to your pets please,” they cautioned in the video caption, highlighting the importance of including animals in evacuation plans. This rescue serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership, especially during emergency situations.
The Red Cross advises pet owners to prepare for emergencies by updating pet identification, microchipping, and creating emergency kits. With many shelters and hotels not accepting pets during evacuations, advance planning is crucial. Floridians evacuating are strongly urged to take their pets with them, as emphasized by officials in light of this incident.
A Happy Ending and a Lesson Learned
Fortunately, this story has a positive outcome. The rescued dog was taken to a veterinarian and received a clean bill of health. Governor DeSantis even mentioned the possibility of adoption for the lucky canine, turning a potential tragedy into a heartwarming tale of rescue and redemption.
As Hurricane Milton continues to threaten the Tampa Bay area, home to over 3.3 million residents, this incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and responsibility. It highlights the dedication of Florida’s first responders and the state’s commitment to protecting all its residents—human and animal alike—in the face of natural disasters.
Sources:
- Florida Highway Patrol rescue dog tied to pole on I-75 ahead of Milton
- Hurricane Milton: State trooper rescues abandoned dog on side of Florida interstate
- Florida highway trooper rescues dog tied to fence as Hurricane Milton approaches
- Florida troopers rescue dog tied to pole amid Hurricane Milton floodwaters
- Hurricane Milton: Florida trooper rescues abandoned dog tied to fence on side of I-75
- Hurricane Milton by the numbers
- Hurricane Milton: Abandoned Dog Tied to Fence Pole Rescued by Florida Highway Patrol
