Trooper’s Law And Animal Protection – What SB 150 Means For Pet Owners in Florida, October 2025
Pets are family members. Leaving them outside during extreme weather can lead to injury or death. Tragic stories of dogs tied to trees during hurricanes prompted Florida lawmakers to act. Senate Bill 150, known as Trooper’s Law, takes effect on October 1 2025 and imposes criminal penalties on owners who restrain a dog outside and abandon it during a natural disaster. This page explains what the law requires, how it differs from existing animal cruelty statutes, and what pet owners need to know to protect their animals and avoid prosecution.
The Story Behind Trooper’s Law
Trooper was a dog discovered tethered to a tree and left behind during a storm. When rescuers found him, he was malnourished, dehydrated and frightened. Despite efforts to save him, Trooper died. The case sparked outrage and highlighted gaps in the law. Existing cruelty statutes covered intentional harm but did not specifically address abandoning a restrained animal during a disaster. Advocates urged lawmakers to create a law that would prevent similar cases.
Previous Animal Cruelty Laws
Florida’s animal cruelty statutes already prohibited beating, mutilating or killing animals. Neglect, including failing to provide food, water or shelter, was also illegal. However, the statutes did not expressly address the scenario of leaving a dog tied up during storms. Prosecutors sometimes struggled to charge owners because abandonment elements were not clear.
Key Provisions Of SB 150
Trooper’s Law targets a specific form of neglect: restraining a dog outside and abandoning it when a natural disaster approaches.
Definition Of Restraint And Abandonment
The law defines restraint as tethering a dog to a stationary object, such as a tree or stake, using a rope, chain or leash. Abandonment occurs when the owner leaves the property or fails to retrieve the dog during a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, flood, wildfire or tornado. If an owner is ordered to evacuate and does not take the dog or release it to find shelter, the law considers it abandonment.
Criminal Penalties
Violating SB 150 is a criminal offense. The severity depends on the harm suffered by the animal. If the dog is left restrained and survives, the offense may be a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a one-thousand-dollar fine. If the dog suffers serious injury or death, the offense can be elevated to a third-degree felony, with penalties up to five years in prison and a five-thousand-dollar fine. Courts can also require forfeiture of the animal and prohibit the owner from owning pets in the future.
Duties Of Pet Owners
The law obligates pet owners to include animals in emergency plans. Owners must:
- Bring pets indoors during storms or evacuations.
- Arrange to transport pets when evacuating.
- Secure pets in safe areas if leaving home temporarily (but not tethered outdoors).
- Keep identification and vaccination records handy to board pets in shelters or with friends.
Failing to plan is not an excuse. Owners cannot claim they did not have time or resources if they had sufficient notice of the disaster.
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Responsibilities During Natural Disasters
Emergency agencies often emphasize “pet-friendly” evacuations. Many shelters allow animals in designated areas, and hotels frequently waive pet restrictions during emergencies. Local governments may provide resources for pet evacuation. Pet owners should:
- Pack pet supplies (food, water, medication, leash, crate).
- Identify nearby pet-friendly shelters or hotels.
- Coordinate with friends or family who can house pets temporarily.
- Keep microchip information updated in case pets become separated.
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Defenses To Trooper’s Law Charges
Defending against charges under SB 150 may be possible in certain circumstances.
Lack Of Notice
If a natural disaster occurs suddenly, leaving little or no time to retrieve pets, the owner might argue lack of notice. Courts will consider whether emergency alerts were issued and whether the owner could reasonably have taken the dog.
Reasonable Efforts
An owner who made reasonable efforts to relocate the dog but was prevented by circumstances (such as blocked roads or denial by shelters) may argue that they did not abandon the animal. Evidence of calls to shelters, attempts to find lodging and other efforts can support this defense.
Not The Owner
If someone else tied the dog to the property (for example, a neighbor or family member), the accused owner may argue they were not responsible. Witness testimony and ownership records can clarify who restrained the dog.
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How The Law Place Can Assist
Facing charges under Trooper’s Law can be distressing. Our firm provides legal assistance to pet owners and animal advocates.
- Investigate The Incident: We gather evidence of weather alerts, timelines and efforts made by the owner to protect the pet.
- Defend Against Charges: We argue lack of notice or reasonable efforts, seek reduced penalties and work to avoid criminal records.
- Advise On Compliance: We educate clients about pet evacuation plans to avoid future issues.
- Represent Animal Welfare Groups: We assist in enforcing the law against negligent owners and in seeking justice for animals harmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Constitutes A Natural Disaster Under Trooper’s Law?
Natural disasters include hurricanes, floods, wildfires, tornadoes and any event for which authorities issue an evacuation or disaster order. The key is whether the owner had notice.
Are Cats And Other Pets Covered?
The law specifically addresses dogs. Other animal owners should follow general cruelty statutes. However, leaving any pet tethered outdoors during disasters could still lead to neglect charges.
What Are The Penalties For Violating The Law?
Penalties range from a first-degree misdemeanor (up to one year in jail and fines) to a third-degree felony (up to five years in prison) if the dog suffers serious harm or death.
Can I Release My Dog To Roam?
Simply releasing a dog without a plan is not advisable. Dogs can get lost or injured. Owners should bring pets indoors or transport them to a safe location.
Do Shelters Allow Pets During Evacuations?
Many emergency shelters and hotels are pet-friendly during disasters. Owners should research options in advance and have a list of pet-friendly locations.
Will Insurance Cover Veterinary Bills?
Homeowners or renters insurance may cover pet injury under certain circumstances. Pet insurance policies may cover treatment. Check your policies in advance.
Trooper’s Law reflects Florida’s commitment to protecting animals during emergencies. By criminalizing the act of restraining and abandoning a dog during natural disasters, the law ensures that pets are not left to suffer. Pet owners must include their animals in evacuation plans and take steps to secure their safety.
