On social media, a heartbroken moment showed Hurricane Milton leaving a dog abandoned in rising floodwaters.
As Hurricane Milton threatens Florida, a heartbreaking scene unfolds.
A small dog was found abandoned, chained to a fence as floodwaters rose.
A dog abandoned in rising floodwaters.
On the X platform, a user known as @FHPTampa shared a viral video showing a dog abandoned in rising floodwaters
The video has the caption: “FHP Troopers rescued a dog left tied to a pole on I-75 near Bruce B Downs Blvd this morning. Do NOT do this to your pets please…”
A Florida Highway Patrolman rescued the dog near I-75, close to Bruce B Downs Boulevard in Tampa. While, the trooper walked through floodwaters to reach the small white dog.
“It’s OK, buddy, it’s OK,” the officer reassured the frightened dog. As he approached, the pup tried to back away, growling in fear.
Despite the officer’s gentle attempts to comfort the dog, it continued to growl. “I don’t blame you,” the officer said softly. “It’s OK, buddy, it’s OK.”
The video quickly went viral and sparked concerned on social media
The video of the rescue does not show what happened next. It remains unclear who owned the dog or how it ended up in that situation.
While others expressed their heartbreak over the moment a dog was abandoned.
One peron said: I could never leave my pet. My dogs and cats were always just another family member when I was growing up, and it’s still that way.
A second wrote: I cannot imagine how people lose their humanity in this evil way. I am in my 70’s and rescued dogs all my life even as a kid with my parents teaching me the love for animals. They should not own pets….
While a third commented: Dogs are very special. My Lab was my first mate and she cruised with me through the Caribbean for several years. Great memories.
Another added: How some people sleep at night I do not know – that poor dog …. hope he/she finds a wonderful new home and happy life.
Someone else said: I hope it was a happy ending. Best wishes to the officer for his efforts. What I wish for the person who abandoned the poor dog cannot be printed.
Support from officials
Animal welfare organizations are urging pet owners to avoid such neglect. One organization posted on X, “Do NOT do this to your pets, please.”
Public reactions on social media have been intense.
As a result, the governor Ron DeSantis expressed support for the Highway Patrol.
He tweeted, “Thank you @FHPTampa. It is cruel for anyone to leave a dog tied to a post in the middle of an oncoming storm. FL will hold anyone who mistreats pets accountable.”
Hurricane Milton’s impact
Tampa is bracing for Hurricane Milton, a Category 4 storm. It is expected to bring 10 to 15 inches of rain from Wednesday afternoon to Thursday afternoon.
Forecasters predict storm surges of eight to 12 feet above ground, peaking around 10 PM Wednesday. Hurricane Milton, previously a Category 5 storm, is known for its destructive winds.
As of Wednesday morning, winds reached 130 mph, moving toward Tampa at about 14 mph. The storm’s gales now extend over 100 miles from its center, raising concerns about potential devastation.
The situation underscores the importance of protecting pets during severe weather. While, Hurricane Milton approaches, communities are urged to ensure the safety of all animals.