A Heartwarming Tale of Rescue and Redemption
A few hours before Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida, a bull terrier named Trooper was left abandoned, tied to a fence near the I-75 in Tampa. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers discovered him, and his condition was dire. He was covered in mud, with water up to his chest, and appeared visibly distressed.
A New Beginning
The troopers, Frank and Carla Spina, were deeply moved by Trooper’s plight. They decided to rescue him and bring him to a shelter, where he would begin his journey to a new home. The FHP named him "Trooper" and brought him to the Hillsborough County shelter. Due to the impending storm, they later transported him to the Leon County Humane Society.
A Long Journey Home
Trooper spent four weeks in a foster home before the Spinas heard back from the Leon County Humane Society. Frank and Carla, both seasoned animal rescuers, were eager to give Trooper a new home. They drove seven and a half hours from Parkland to Tallahassee, with their other rescued Bull Terrier, Dallas, in tow.
A New Family, a New Life
Trooper has now been with his new family for four weeks, adjusting to his new life. Frank and Carla have been showering him with love and care, and it’s clear that he’s thriving. "He’s daddy’s boy," Frank said, "We think we turned him around. We’re so lucky. We’re so blessed to have him."
A Message of Hope
Frank and Carla’s story is a testament to the power of rescue and redemption. They hope that others will follow in their footsteps and give dogs like Trooper a second chance at life through adoption. "We hope that people will help give dogs a new chance at life," Frank said.
FAQs
Q: What happened to Trooper before he was rescued?
A: Trooper was left abandoned, tied to a fence near the I-75 in Tampa, just before Hurricane Milton made landfall.
Q: What were Trooper’s initial conditions when he was rescued?
A: He was covered in mud, with water up to his chest, and appeared visibly distressed.
Q: How long did it take for Trooper to find a new home?
A: Trooper spent four weeks in a foster home before the Spinas brought him to their permanent home.
Q: What is Trooper’s new family like?
A: Trooper has a new family with Frank and Carla Spina, and a new sister named Dallas. He is adjusting to his new life and thriving under their care.
