Pinellas County Animal Services News
“This past legislative session was particularly busy for animal welfare! Here is an overview of the three bills we have been tracking closely going into effect July 1, 2025:
- Trooper’s Law: SB 150 making it a third-degree felony to restrain and abandon a dog outdoors during a declared natural disaster or at any time in which a mandatory or voluntary evacuation order is in effect.
- Dexter’s Law: HB 255 strengthen penalties for aggravated animal cruelty and ensures offenders face appropriate criminal penalties. Dexter’s Law also creates Florida’s first animal abuser database to prevent abuse and protect communities. The database is managed by FDLE and will contain the name of individuals convicted of aggravated animal cruelty. It will go into effect on January 1, 2026, and updates every 48 hours.
- Pam Rock Act (Expands Current Dangerous Dog Regulations): HB 593 Owners must confine the dog in a proper enclosure, dogs declared dangerous are microchipped and spayed or neutered, an owner who attempts to remove the microchip can be charged with a third-degree felony, and owners must obtain at least $100,000 in liability insurance.
Now more than ever, lawmakers are understanding the importance of animal welfare to the overall health and well-being of our communities. Please continue to advocate for this type of progressive legislation in our field and reach out to me if there is a particular subject you would like to see explored during future sessions.
I hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July holiday!”
Jennifer Renner, B.Sc., CPM (she/her)
Interim Director – Community Outreach & Volunteer Program Manager
Animal Services – Pinellas County Government
12450 Ulmerton Rd – Largo, FL 33774
jrenner@pinellas.gov office 727-582-2636
