Orange County Animal Services Stresses the Importance of Emergency Plans for Pets

New Florida law targets people who abandon animals during natural disasters.

Orange County, FL – As the 2025 Hurricane Season begins, Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) reminds residents to establish emergency plans for their pets. The reminder comes as new laws going into effect increase penalties for animal abuse, with one specifically targeting pet abandonment during natural disasters.

Senate Bill 150, or “Trooper’s Law,” was inspired by Trooper, a dog who was left chained to a pole in the path of Hurricane Milton and rescued by the Florida Highway Patrol. The law makes it a felony to abandon pets during a declared disaster or evacuation, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. It also classifies failing to provide confined animals with food, water or exercise – and abandoning an animal – as first-degree misdemeanors.

“It’s such a victory to see Trooper’s Law pass and we’re so thankful to the advocates who make this happen,” said Diane Summers, manager for Orange County Animal Services. “Trooper’s Law establishes much needed consequences for those who abandon their pet during a time of crisis.”

Orange County residents have the option to seek shelter at one of the county’s pet-friendly shelters.

“Animals in the pet-friendly shelters are kept in a separate room monitored by our staff. However, the pet owner is still responsible for taking care of their pet while they are in the shelter. Owners need to bring their own food, toys, medication the pet may need, and the pet’s updated vaccination record,” said Summers. Services animals stay with their owners.

The county will publish shelter openings through social media and the county websites once a hurricane activation has been determined.

Trooper’s Law goes into effect October 1, 2025. Orange County Animal Services has tips and recommendations for pet owners working to establish emergency plans for their pets on the shelter’s website.