Bunnell - Friday June 10, 2022: Governor Ron DeSantis has signed Senate Bill 226 into law establishing the Care for Retired Police Dogs program.
The program will help the caregivers of retired police dogs pay for the veterinary costs for the dogs. The program will be administered by a non-profit organization dedicated to the care of retired police dogs, under the auspices of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
“In Florida we back the blue, and that includes the K-9s that are often the first to go into a dangerous situation,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “After dedicating their lives to protecting and serving our communities, it is important that we ensure that these K-9s are cared for by providing the resources necessary for handlers or adopters to afford their veterinary care.”
The Care for Retired Police Dogs Program will provide a reimbursement of up to $1,500 of the annual veterinary costs associated with caring for a retired police dog. This includes annual wellness checks, vaccinations, parasite prevention treatments, medications, and emergency care for the animals. The program has an appropriation of $300,000 in recurring funds.
For a retired service dog to qualify, an owner must show valid documentation of the dog’s retirement from law enforcement and that the dog served for 5 or more years. A dog that has served 3 or more years and was injured in the line of duty then retired is also eligible.
- CS/SB 226 – Care for Retired Police Dogs - To read the transmittal letter, click here.