Dog abandoned, tied to a pole in Tampa amidst Milton recovers in foster care

Collage of bull terrier.
Photos courtesy FHPTampa and FLHSMV.

A five-year-old bull terrier has captured national attention after reportedly being abandoned and tied to a pole as residents were evacuating ahead of Hurricane Milton landfall earlier this month.

When Florida Highway Patrol Troopers found the dog, it was trapped in floodwaters up to its chest. A bodycam video shared on X showed the officers rescuing the dog, which had been left tied to a pole along the I-75 highway. In the video, the dog growled and barked while standing in deep water, as an officer tried to calm it down, saying, “I don’t blame you.” The incident highlighted a warning not to abandon pets in dangerous situations.

Following the rescue, the Troopers reportedly brought the dog to a veterinary clinic to receive care. It “was examined for injuries and received a clean bill of health.” Currently, the dog is under the care of its foster mom Amber Gonzales, who was contacted by the Leon County Humane Society given her experience with the dog breed.

Trooper’s 23-year-old owner, Giovanny Garcia, faces charges of aggravated animal cruelty and could potentially serve time in prison. Garcia reportedly gave up the Trooper under the condition “they would take good care and love the dog.”

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