Governor DeSantis Condemns Owner After Dog Rescued from Floodwaters in Tampa During Hurricane Milton

Oct 9, 2024, 06:30 PM

Florida Highway Patrol troopers rescued a dog that had been left tied to a pole on Interstate 75 near Bruce B. Downs Boulevard in Tampa during Hurricane Milton. Found in belly-high floodwaters as the storm approached, the dog was in imminent danger as millions evacuated their homes. Governor Ron DeSantis condemned the act, stating, "It is cruel for anyone to leave a dog tied to a post in the middle of an oncoming storm. Florida will hold anyone who mistreats pets accountable." The governor indicated that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement would be involved in bringing the owner to justice. The dog has been treated, is in good condition, and will soon be available for adoption. Authorities are actively seeking the owner for potential prosecution.