A rabies alert has been issued for Venice and North Port by the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County after the discovery of a rabid bobcat.
Officials say two bobcat attacks occurred within four miles of one another in east Venice.
ABC Action News has obtained wild video showing a Florida Fish and Wildlife officer trying to capture a bobcat in the back patio of a home in Venice. You can see it lunge at the officer.
WATCH:
The DOH says all residents, especially those in that area, should be aware that rabies is present in the wild animal population and domestic animals are at risk if not vaccinated.
The public is asked to maintain a heightened awareness that rabies is active in Sarasota County.
People are encouraged not to keep pet food outside, secure garbage containers, and keep pets under supervision.
