New Florida Laws Target Animal Cruelty With Harsher Jail Time and Fines

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed two laws that make it a felony to abandon restrained dogs during disasters and increase penalties for aggravated animal cruelty.

Milo (L) and Miya (R) play together in Biscayne Bay in Miami on May 28, 2025. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed legislation into law that will impose tougher penalties on people who abandon pets during natural disasters and enhance criminal penalties for severe animal abuse. Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed two bills into law this week that enhance penalties for cases of animal cruelty in the state.

“Across Florida, we have witnessed horrific cases of animal cruelty that demand a stronger response,” DeSantis said in a May 28 statement. “I was proud to sign Trooper’s Law and Dexter’s Law today. Florida stands by man’s best friend.”