What Florida’s Pam Rock Act Means for Dog Owners & Dog Bite Victims

The Pam Rock Act has been officially signed into law, and it is changing how Florida handles dangerous dogs. The new dog bite law was created due to an unnecessary tragedy with the hopes of saving lives and giving victims and their families a clearer path to justice after an attack.

So, what does the Pam Rock Act mean for dog bite victims, dog owners, and our Florida communities? Let’s discuss.

Did the Pam Rock Act Pass in Florida?

On May 21, 2025, the Pam Rock Act (CS/HB 593) officially became law in Florida. It takes effect July 1, 2025. The bill passed both chambers of the Legislature with overwhelming support and was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis.

Though there have been efforts to pass dangerous dog laws in the past, this marks a positive step forward and a sigh of relief for the family of Pam Rock. Her 13 siblings pushed lawmakers to make decisive change and prevent other victims and families from having to suffer the same horror and heartbreak.

Who Was Pam Rock?

In 2022, Pam Rock was working as a U.S. postal worker when her mail truck broke down on a dirt road in Putnam County. Five dogs that had escaped from a nearby property attacked and fatally injured her.

Pam was 61 years old. Her attack was brutal. And it should never have happened.

Pam had 13 siblings who loved her fiercely. After her death, they chose to fight to help prevent future victims from suffering the same fate their beloved sister endured. They rallied lawmakers, told Pam’s story again and again, and refused to let her name be forgotten. Their advocacy is the reason the Pam Rock Act moved forward.

We need to keep in mind that dog attacks aren’t isolated incidents. They are preventable tragedies that can shatter families and shake entire communities. Just this year, 8-year-old Michael Millet lost his precious life in a dog attack in Volusia County. Full of potential, his time here was cut short to the heartbreak of his parents and everyone who knew him.

Dog bite laws like the Pam Rock Act are the appropriate answer to the grief and fury of countless victims and families. Florida is finally saying: we see you, we hear you, and we’re doing something to protect you.

What Is the Pam Rock Act?

The Pam Rock Act is an incredibly important update to Florida dog bite laws. It targets dogs that exhibit aggressive or dangerous behavior, regardless of breed. The new law requires any dog that seriously injures or kills someone to be confiscated immediately, quarantined if necessary, and impounded while an investigation is conducted.

Dogs that bite and leave marks classified as level 5 or 6 on the Dunbar Bite Scale (see below) must be removed from the owner’s custody. The law allows for humane destruction if the attack is fatal or extremely severe, and the dog is voluntarily surrendered.

Under this new law, owners of dogs classified as dangerous must do the following:

• Microchip the dog (removal is now a third-degree felony)
• Securely confine the dog to a proper enclosure
• Spay or neuter the dog
• Register the dog annually with animal control
• Obtain and maintain a liability insurance policy of at least $100,000

Animal shelters and adoption agencies are now required to disclose if a dog has been previously classified as dangerous. This level of transparency in the adoption process could save a great deal of pain and heartache moving forward.

One of the many positive aspects of the Pam Rock Act is that it moves the focus away from targeting specific dog breeds. Instead, it protects the public from specific dogs that have proven dangerous or aggressive. This is about public safety, responsible dog ownership, and support for victims and their families.

What Is the Dunbar Bite Scale?

Dr. Ian Dunbar’s Dog Bite Scale is a standardized system that ranks the severity of dog bites from 1 to 6.

• 1–2: Warning or minor contact with little to no skin puncture
• 3: One to four shallow puncture wounds
• 4: One deep puncture wound
• 5–6: Multiple deep wounds or fatal injuries

Under the Pam Rock Act, dog bites at a level 5 or 6 result in the offending dog being impounded immediately and an investigation.

What Does This Mean for Dog Owners?

If you’re a dog owner in Florida, you do need to be aware of the new law. No one is coming for your pup, but if your dog has hurt someone or acted aggressively, the law is very clear on what needs to happen next.

Should your dog be classified as dangerous, you will need to do the following:

• Make sure your dog is confined to a secure enclosure
• Have your dog microchipped
• Have them spayed or neutered if they have not been already
• Purchase and maintain a $100,000 liability insurance policy
• Register your dog annually with your local animal control authority

Failure to follow these laws could lead to fines of up to $1,000 or even jail time. And as mentioned, removing your dog’s microchip is now considered a third-degree felony.

Remember, dog bite laws are not meant to punish good dogs and good owners. They are designed to prevent the tragedies that took Pam Rock, Michael Millet, and too many others from their families.

What Can We Do To Help Prevent Dog Attacks?

The law alone cannot stop dog attacks. We must all stay observant and vigilant to protect our families and neighbors. Here are some things you can do to help:

• Report aggressive behavior to animal control
• Secure your yard and supervise your pets closely
• Use a leash in public places
• Train your dog consistently

Don’t be afraid to say something. If you see something or feel like something is off, report it. Many tragedies could have been prevented with a phone call.

Steps To Take After a Dog Bite

If a dog has bitten you or someone you love, your next steps are vitally important.

1. Seek medical attention immediately!
2. Report the attack to local animal control.
3. Document everything you can, including photos, witness statements, and medical records.
4. Refrain from speaking with the dog owner’s insurance company until you have consulted with legal representation.
5. Contact a trusted dog bite lawyer who can help you go over your options and advocate for your best interests.

Get Real Justice with Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers!

The Pam Rock Act is a hopeful turning point in how Florida handles dangerous dogs. The law may have originated in loss, but now, it will protect our friends, family, and neighbors. Whether you are a dog bite victim, a dog owner, or a concerned community member, this law sets a standard for safety, accountability, and support.

Our team at Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers has seen too many families devastated after a dog attack. We’re here to support you through some of the hardest moments you’ll ever face. That means helping coordinate medical treatment and transportation if you need it, making sure you understand every step of the legal process, and always being within reach so you never feel left in the dark. Our focus stays where it belongs: on you and on fighting for the Real Justice you deserve.

If you’re struggling to figure things out after a dog bite injury, let’s talk. We’ll make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Call out Fort Lauderdale dog bite lawyers today at 954-866-1111 or contact us online to schedule a FREE case evaluation.