Florida has laws against animal cruelty — and it has taken steps toward creating a statewide Animal Abuser Registry. But protecting animals requires strong implementation, enforcement, and long-term commitment.

Without a fully supported and consistently enforced registry, shelters and rescues may not have reliable tools to verify whether someone seeking to adopt an animal has a prior conviction for abuse. Any gaps in oversight put vulnerable animals at risk.

A statewide registry only works if it is accessible, properly maintained, and clearly enforced. Animal shelters, pet stores, and rescue organizations must be able to depend on it when making placement decisions.

Florida should lead the nation in protecting animals — not just by passing laws, but by ensuring they are effective.

We are calling on the Florida Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis to fully support, fund, and strengthen Florida’s statewide Animal Abuser Registry by:

• Ensuring individuals convicted of felony animal cruelty are required to register for a defined period;
• Prohibiting registrants from adopting, purchasing, or harboring animals during that time;
• Making registry information easily accessible to shelters and humane organizations;
• Directing fines toward animal welfare and prevention programs.

This proposal is about prevention and responsible placement — not politics. It is about giving animal welfare professionals the tools they need to protect pets from repeat harm.

Floridians care deeply about their animals. Dogs, cats, and other pets are family. They deserve protection that works in every community across our state.

Sign this petition to urge Florida lawmakers to strengthen and fully enforce the statewide Animal Abuser Registry and keep animals safe.