When Florida Highway Patrol Troopers were called in to help a dog in distress, their hearts sank.
A Bull Terrier had been cruelly tied to a fence by his owners, in the face of Hurricane Milton.
Just in time
The poor pup was already up to his chest in water when troopers arrived on site. He was distressed and defensive, barking to warn his rescuers away.
But with a few kind words from the team, he quickly realised they were there to help him.
He was immediately cut free and taken to Leon County Humane Society for some much needed love and care.
The clip, which was shared by Wear ABC 3 News to Facebook, has been viewed over 300,000 times. Animal lovers around the world were shocked by what they saw.
"This is beyond cruel!", wrote one viewer.
"What is wrong with people?", asked another.
"It is cruel for anyone to leave a dog tied to a post in the middle of an oncoming storm", tweeted Florida governor Ron DeSantis. "FL will hold anyone who mistreats pets accountable".
Now in good hands
Thankfully, an update shared to Facebook revealed the Bull Terrier is now in good hands.
He has been named Trooper, in tribute to the team that saved him.
For the time being, he'll be cared for by the humane society. And when the time is right, rescue staff will begin the search for the perfect home.
