Animal Control Officer

Animal Control Officers Need Compassion, Understanding, and It Wouldn't Hurt to Know About Animal Behavior

"From an early age I was taught to help and respect the animals the Great Sprit has sent to help us in our lives. I want to say being an Animal Care Officer has many ups and downs when dealing with animals who have been neglected and abused. There is also the great feeling and joy of seeing animals who are well taken care of and seeing people taking such great care of their dogs and cats and other animals. We are here to help them help us....animals provide comfort and protection as well as a helping hand. The best part of my job is the look and showing of happiness and appreciation from the animals I help." Shawn D. Clark--Animal Care Officer for Bernalillo County, Albuquerque, New Mexico, and member of the Navajo Nation.

Training Needed
Requirements for becoming an animal control officer may include a high school diploma, courses in criminology and animal science and on-the-job training (may be similar to police training).

Some states require certification. Contact your local animal agency for information on humane law enforcement and animal control officer positions.

Information from ASPCA available at: http://www.aspca.org/about-us/faq/animal-careers

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