On Wednesday, December 4, 2019, PCSO Animal Control responded Towering Pines Drive in Lakeland, in reference to a fight between a dog and a raccoon. 

The owner of the dachshund separated the two animals and confined the raccoon until Animal Control responded and took it into custody.

The raccoon was sent to the state laboratory in Tampa to be tested for rabies, and was confirmed two days later. 

The dachshund is vaccinated and will remain at home under a 45-day quarantine. 

“Here's a great example of responsible pet ownership and why it's so important to keep your pets vaccinated against rabies. If you see a wild animal in distress, or if one of your pets interacts with a wild animal, contact Polk County Animal Control immediately.” -Grady Judd, Sheriff. 

So far this year, the 11 rabies cases in Polk County have consisted of five bats and six raccoons. 

In 2018, there were only three cases of rabies confirmed in Polk County.