TALLAHASSEE, Fla. − A dog that was left tied to a fence along Interstate 75 as Hurricane Milton approached Florida has shown incredible resilience and is now dubbed a “Trooper.”

This Bull Terrier mix is currently being cared for by the Leon County Humane Society in Tallahassee. A widely shared video on social media captured a Florida state trooper discovering the distressed animal tied to a fence in Tampa, where the rising floodwaters reached its chest.

Following an outpour of concern online, the dog, now affectionately named “Trooper,” was seen snuggled in a warm blanket on the local society’s Facebook page. The post detailed his name choice, reflecting his tough experience and honoring those who rescued him.

“We want everyone following Trooper’s story to know that he is safe and sound, as we have been deeply concerned since the news broke,” said the post. “Furthermore, we want to emphasize that we take cases of animal abandonment very seriously and will ensure close monitoring of Trooper’s situation while using his experience to promote awareness.”

Trooper was brought to safety on Wednesday night after the shelter received a call from the governor’s office, according to the post.

Hundreds of thousands evacuated to avoid Hurricane Milton, which caused significant tornadoes across the state. Sadly, Trooper was left behind, prompting sorrowful reactions across social media.

A 36-second video shared by the Florida Highway Patrol-Tampa displayed the dog, helplessly tied and standing in knee-high water on I-75 as the storm approached the Tampa Bay region.

Governor Ron DeSantis shared the video on his social media, stating, “It is simply cruel for anyone to leave a dog tied to a post during an impending storm. Florida will ensure that people who mistreat pets will face the consequences.”

“At a press conference on Wednesday evening concerning the storm, the governor remarked, “What kind of person would abandon a dog in such dangerous conditions? It’s just unfathomable.”

Trooper’s plight has brought attention to issues of animal cruelty and negligence, and thanks to the community’s support, the Leon County Humane Society has raised $1,603 for animals in similar situations and to assist with their ongoing rescue efforts.

The shelter plans to keep Trooper’s followers updated on his journey to recovery.

Currently, Trooper is still “stressed” and “adjusting” to his recent experiences. He will be ready for adoption when he has moved on to the “next stage of his life.”

How to Help

∎ Visit leoncountyhumane.org/donate.