On Wednesday, December 4, 2019, PCSO Animal Control responded to 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, which was confirmed two days later.
This is the 11th confirmed case of rabies in Polk County.
The dachshund was immediately 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.