FL S1738

Authorizes veterinarians to report suspected criminal violations to law enforcement officers, certified animal control officers, or designated agents without client notice or authorization, except for commercial food-producing animal operations where advance notice to the client is required.

Prohibits written medical records from being included in veterinary reports to law enforcement unless ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Makes it a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to $5,000 in fines to leave a dog outside and unattended using a restraint during a natural disaster (hurricane, tropical storm, tornado warning, or evacuation order) or manmade disaster.

Authorizes horse sale contracts to include covenants for continuing care that bind all future purchasers; covenants must provide written notice and acknowledgment by subsequent purchasers and may include liquidated damages for non-compliance.

Directs the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to adopt rules for third-party horse care providers including adoption of American Association of Equine Practitioners guidelines, hotline availability, diet and medical care standards, prior owner notification rights, and actuarial reserve requirements.