Florida Dangerous Dog Law

 PROTECT YOUR NEIGHBORS – Know the NEW Dangerous Dogs Law and Take Action

USPS Letter carrier Pam Rock lost her life in a 5-dog attack while she was delivering mail.  8-year-old Michael Miller was riding his bicycle in his neighborhood, and was attacked and killed by a dangerous dog.  Florida passed a new law to hold negligent dog owners accountable and protect the public.​

 

Effective July 1, 2025, the Pam Rock Act, is now adopted into FL Statute #767, Dangerous Dogs.  

• Immediate Mandatory Impoundment by Animal Control while they investigate dogs suspected of Dangerous Behavior:

  • Aggressively bitten, attacked, endangered or inflicted severe injury on a person

  • Severely injured or killed a domestic animal more than once

  • Has, when unprovoked, chased or approached in a menacing fashion or apparent attitude of attack, provided such actions are attested to in a sworn statement  

• Dog owners must carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance and the dog be microchipped as a “Dangerous Dog” if their dog has been determined Dangerous by Animal Control Officer investigation and adjudication

• Dangerous Dogs must be spayed or neutered, and secured in a proper enclosure, and must be muzzled and leashed outside the secure enclosure. Signs must be posted 

• Dangerous Dog owners must advise any new owner or shelter of his dog’s designation.

 

Why It Matters

• Over 5,400 USPS postal workers were attacked by dogs in 2021.

• Florida ranked in the Top 10 states for dog bites, with 201 cases reported last year.

• Dog attacks can be fatal — Pam and Michel’s  stories are  tragic reminder of what’s at stake.

 

Be Vigilant. Take Action.

If you witness or experience a dangerous dog attack:

• Report it to your Local Sheriff’s Department and Contact County Animal Control

  • Provide details: location, dog description, time, and behavior

  • Be prepare to complete a sworn written affidavit to the investigation authorities.  

• Your report can help prevent tragedy and save lives.

 

Speak Up. Stay Alert. Stay Safe.