The Frederick County Health Department is urging the public to assist in locating the owner of a dog involved in a biting incident that occurred on Saturday, September 12, 2026. The incident took place around 2:00 p.m. on Lambert Drive in Ballenger Creek, Frederick, when a woman was bitten while walking in her neighborhood.

The dog in question is described as a Shiba Inu with caramel coloring. The owner, a young woman believed to be in her 20s, was reportedly wearing lounge wear at the time of the incident. The Health Department is keen to make contact with the owner to ensure the dog’s health and safety, as well as to provide guidance to the victim of the bite.

Residents who may have information regarding the dog or its owner are encouraged to reach out to Frederick County Animal Control at 301-600-1544. Prompt reporting is crucial, as it allows Animal Control to verify the dog’s health within 10 days following the incident, potentially preventing the need for costly rabies treatments for the victim.

In the event of an animal bite or scratch, residents are reminded to gather the owner’s contact information and report the incident to Animal Control. For wildlife-related encounters, contacting Environmental Health Services is recommended. For any concerns regarding rabies exposure, Community Health Services can be reached at 301-600-3342. For more information, visit Health.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Rabies.