As Hurricane Milton advanced towards Tampa, a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) trooper made a heartbreaking discovery along Interstate 75. A small, white dog had been left tied to a pole near Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, alone and helpless as the storm intensified. The rescue took place amidst ongoing evacuations, with the hurricane bringing Category 4 winds and severe flooding to the area.

The trooper, who approached cautiously to avoid frightening the animal further, found the dog standing in rising water, which had reached up to its chest.

In the footage shared by AS TV, the trooper can be heard speaking softly to the dog, saying, "I don't blame you. It’s okay, buddy.”

FHP’s Message: “Do Not Do This to Your Pets”

In a powerful social media post following the rescue, FHP emphasized the importance of including pets in emergency plans: “Do NOT do this to your pets,” they wrote.

The agency urged residents evacuating their homes not to leave animals behind, especially under such dangerous conditions, WFLA reports.

The FHP’s message quickly gained traction as people shared the video, with many expressing outrage and heartbreak over the dog’s plight. Animal welfare groups also echoed the sentiment, encouraging pet owners to bring their animals to designated pet-friendly shelters or make other arrangements to ensure their safety. During a storm, animals left outside face risks from flooding, flying debris, and other hazards, making it vital for residents to take responsibility for their pets, FOX Weather reports.

A Growing Crisis for Pets in Hurricanes

The case of this abandoned dog highlights a troubling pattern seen during natural disasters. As hurricanes approach, many pet owners either forget or choose not to evacuate their animals, leaving them to fend for themselves in life-threatening situations.

Animal welfare advocates point out that some pet-friendly shelters across the region offer a safe haven for pets during evacuations, removing the need for families to leave their animals behind, as noted by WESH.

As Hurricane Milton bore down on the Florida coastline, officials repeatedly emphasized that anyone evacuating should bring their pets with them. The FHP shared the harrowing video not only to document the incident but also to remind the public that “pets are family too,” and they need protection from extreme weather events just like people do, KRON4 reports.

 

While this dog was safely rescued, many other animals remain vulnerable during hurricanes. Emergency responders, animal welfare organizations, and volunteers across the state are working tirelessly to ensure that pets are not forgotten as the storm approaches.

For pet owners, the lesson is clear: plan ahead, and remember that leaving pets behind can have tragic consequences. As Tampa braces for impact, the FHP's message is one of both caution and compassion: protect your family, including the furry members.

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