A Critical Need for Animal Welfare

A beloved companion named Iluka died from preventable veterinary negligence, representing countless other animals across Florida. "Iluka Law" would establish the criminal accountability framework our state currently lacks.

While Florida has strengthened animal cruelty penalties through Dexter's Law and Trooper's Law, we lack criminal accountability for preventable veterinary negligence. This gap leaves animals vulnerable and responsible veterinarians without clear professional standards.

🐾⚖️

Why it Matters:

The Numbers Tell the Story:

Based on current data, Florida has approximately 4.5 million households that own dogs or cats—representing 56% of Florida's 8.1 million total households, with 39.8% owning dogs and 24.2% owning cats. Research suggests that approximately 2-3% of veterinarians engage in negligent practices, which means up to 135,000 Florida families annually could potentially experience what happened to Iluka—preventable harm to their beloved companions due to substandard veterinary care.

This represents more than just statistics. These are families—mothers, fathers, children—who place their complete trust in veterinary professionals, only to lose their cherished family members to preventable negligence.

  • Why It Matters:

    Protects ethical veterinarians who are our strongest supporters.

    Targets only bad actors engaging in negligent practices.

    Establishes clear standards with appropriate emergency defenses.

    Provides consumer protection through meaningful legal recourse

    Enhances animal welfare without criminalizing the profession.

  • With ~ 135,000 Florida households potentially affected by veterinary negligence

    Protect the human-animal bond that millions of families cherish.

    Ensure accountability without hampering ethical veterinary practice.

    Provide legal recourse for families devastated by preventable losses

  • Support Creates Legislative Impact

    We're building a broad coalition before the 2026 Florida Legislative Session. Your endorsement strengthens our presentation to key legislators and demonstrates professional/public support.

  • The Evidence is Clear

    The literature demonstrates that veterinary errors are well-documented in professional journals, with recent studies indicating most veterinary complaints involve negligence rather than communication issues.

    Next Steps:

    1. Review the materials

    2. Complete support statement below or submit letter of support (see the support template tab). 

    3. Share with your network to amplify impact