As Hurricane Milton approached Florida, a horrifying scene occurred on the side of Interstate 75, sparking criticism on social media.
On Wednesday morning, Florida Highway Patrol troopers responded to a distress call and found a dog tied to a chicken wire fence, standing in water up to its stomach.
The video, which immediately went viral, shows the officer approaching the terrified animal and telling it, “It’s okay,” despite the dog growling in fear.
The incident sparked widespread public concern regarding the welfare of pets during natural catastrophes.
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) sent a tweet urging pet owners not to abandon their animals, saying, “Do NOT do this to your pets, please.” The emotional impact of the clip struck a chord with many, triggering quick calls for responsibility.
“This is ridiculous. The owner needs to face legal consequences,” one user said, reflecting a
rising sentiment that those who abandon pets during times of crisis should be held responsible.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis reiterated a similar opinion, underscoring the cruelty of endangering an animal.
“It is cruel to leave a dog tethered to a post in the midst of an impending storm. Florida will hold anyone who mistreats pets accountable,” he tweeted.
His statement came as the storm’s severity changed, prompting predictions of severe winds and devastating storm surges.
Fortunately, the story ended well for the dog. After being rescued by troopers, it was taken to a veterinary clinic for examination and given a clean bill of health.
“The dog is safe and receiving care,” stated the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
As word spread about the rescue, many neighborhood people offered to adopt the puppy, expressing their desire to provide it with a loving home. However, different stories emerged about the dog’s ownership.
While some stated the dog had been returned by its owner, the Florida Department of Highway Safety confirmed that this was incorrect, stating that the dog was safe and in good care.
As the community rallies around the rescued puppy, the story serves as a sharp reminder of pet owners’ responsibilities, particularly in the face of natural disasters.
With public outrage growing, many people hope for justice for the abandoned puppy and a commitment to protecting vulnerable animals in future storms.
The final update indicated that, unlike earlier assertions, the dog is still alive and in the care of authorities, waiting for a loving home.
Feature Image Credit: (Twitter/@FLHSMV/r)
