Polk County Animal Control provides a variety of services to our community. Animal Control Officers investigate bite cases and dangerous dog cases, pick up sick or injured dogs or cats, and quarantine animals. The Polk County Animal Shelter also provides pet adoptions for healthy pets including dogs and cats, and welcomes donations.
ANIMAL SHELTER + LOST PETS: Some lost/found pets are taken to the Polk County Animal Shelter. You can check for your lost pet by visiting the Polk Pets website or visiting the shelter during their business hours.
PET ADOPTION: The Polk County Animal Shelter has dogs and cats of many sizes and breeds available for adoption! You can visit the Polk animal adoption website to view the animals currently available for adoption, or visit and look for yourself, animals change daily and adoptions are on a first come, first served basis. Discounts on adoption fees are available at special events throughout the year. (They do not spay and neuter existing pets- visit our Pets Guide for local vets)
RABIES TAGS: Polk County Ordinance requires all dogs or cats four (4) months and older to have a rabies vaccination and a valid license tag – these can be obtained on the Animal Control website or at the administration office.
ANIMAL BITES + NUISANCE WILDLIFE: Polk County Animal Control officers respond to dangerous dogs, animal attacks, and other animal calls involving a bite or attack to a human or an animal, particularly those dealing with raccoons, bats, foxes, and other possible rabies carriers. Visit the Animal Control Polk County website or call for more information on dangerous dog statutes.
DONATIONS: The Polk County Animal Shelter gratefully accepts any and all material and monetary donations intended for the health and comfort of the animals housed in our shelter. Material donations can be any household items such as: old towels and linens, dog and cat beds, pet toys, old dog and cat transport crates, bird and small animal cages, newspapers, etc. The veterinary staff is always in need of workable gently-loved medical equipment, bandages, and other medical supplies. You’d be surprised at what can be adapted to help the animals in our care.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office provides animal control in Lakeland and across Polk County. Visit the website for a full list of FAQ’s regarding Polk County Animal Services.
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