A Lakeland woman is facing serious charges after investigators say she performed surgical procedures on dogs without a license and kept several animals in unsanitary living conditions.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrested 35-year-old Ashley Wimbrow following an investigation that began with a suspicious international shipment.

Suspicious Package Sparks Probe

According to deputies, U.S. Customs officials in New York intercepted a package sent from India and addressed to a home on North Socrum Loop Road in Lakeland. Inside were eight boxes containing liquid Xylazine — a powerful veterinary sedative often referred to as “tranq.”

Xylazine is legally used by veterinarians to sedate animals, but it has also gained attention nationwide because of its presence in illicit drug mixtures. Authorities say, in this case, there was no evidence the drug was being distributed for street use.

Instead, detectives allege it was being used inside the home for unauthorized animal procedures.

Alleged Unlicensed Surgeries

When deputies searched the property, they questioned Wimbrow, who reportedly told investigators she breeds dogs and used the sedative while performing procedures such as ear cropping and tail docking.

According to authorities, she admitted charging between $10 and $100 per dog, depending on the size of the animal and the type of procedure. Deputies say Wimbrow acknowledged she did not hold a veterinary license in Florida and claimed she did not realize one was required.

The sheriff’s office confirmed she is not licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the state.

Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized that medical procedures on animals should only be performed by trained, licensed professionals.

“No one should be performing medical procedures on animals without proper training or licensing,” Judd said.

Dogs Found in Unsanitary Conditions

Investigators also reported troubling conditions inside the home. Five dogs — described as “pocket bullies,” a smaller pit bull-type breed — were found confined in crates covered in fresh and dried feces, with puddles of urine nearby. Deputies said the room carried a strong odor of ammonia.

Authorities noted there were no signs the animals had been used for dogfighting. Wimbrow signed paperwork relinquishing custody of the dogs, which were transferred to Polk County Animal Control for evaluation and care.

Officials say the dogs are expected to be placed with a rescue organization and eventually made available for adoption.

Multiple Charges Filed

Wimbrow was booked on charges including possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, animal neglect and practicing veterinary medicine without a license.

While investigators say they found no evidence of Xylazine being tied to fentanyl trafficking, they described the alleged surgeries and living conditions as unsafe and unacceptable.

The case has sparked concern among animal advocates and local residents, highlighting the risks of unlicensed procedures and improper care in private breeding operations.