Thanks to Florida Highway Patrol troopers in Tampa, a dog who was callously abandoned and tied to a fence on the side of a highway as Hurricane Milton approached is now recovering at an animal shelter in Tallahassee. PETA is sending a Compassionate Police Department Award to Florida Highway Patrol—Tampa to thank the rescuers for their lifesaving actions.

Dog Rescued From Life-Threatening Situation

Footage of the rescue shows an officer approaching the dog, who was standing in rising water as high as his stomach and tethered on a rope so short that he could barely move.

When the dog growled in fear, the officer attempted to comfort the animal, saying, “It’s OK, buddy.”

The troopers were able to get him to a veterinarian, who gave him a clean bill of health before he was transferred to the Leon County Humane Society. There, he earned the fitting name “Trooper.”

Look Out for Animals in Trouble

As catastrophic storms force millions of residents to evacuate their homes, PETA is reminding everyone never to leave animals behind. Animal companions depend on humans to keep them safe, yet many are forced to fend for themselves during natural disasters. Those who are tethered outside will swim to exhaustion and drown.

PETA’s Animal Rescue Team has found dogs up to their necks in water, in almost-submerged crates inside houses, and even flung around by high winds. Animals who do survive often sustain serious injuries and suffer from psychological trauma.

Always keep an eye out for animals in trouble, including neighbors’ animal companions and others who may have gotten loose or been abandoned. If you spot any animals in distress and are unable to help, please notify authorities immediately and call PETA if they can’t provide assistance:

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