Salary Data

Animal Control Workers: What They Do and How to Become One

Animal control workers are responsible for preventing, controlling, and managing various animal-related issues, such as stray animals, dangerous animals, and animal cruelty. They work for government agencies, animal shelters, humane societies, and private organizations, and are required to have certain levels of education, training, and certifications.

Some examples of what animal control workers do include:

– Capturing and removing stray, lost, or abandoned animals from public places, such as roads, parks, and buildings.
– Responding to calls and complaints about nuisance animals, such as dogs barking or running loose, or wildlife damaging property.
– Investigating reports of animal cruelty or neglect, and taking action to protect the animals and prosecute the offenders.
– Educating the public about responsible pet ownership, such as spaying/neutering, licensing, vaccinations, and proper fencing.
– Providing humane treatment and care for animals that are impounded or surrendered, such as feeding, sheltering, and medical attention.
– Euthanizing animals that are sick, injured, dangerous, or unadoptable, according to the laws and policies of the agency.

To become an animal control worker, one usually needs to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete specialized training and certifications in animal handling, public safety, and law enforcement. The amount and type of education and training vary depending on the agency and the location, but some common requirements include:

– Basic animal behavior and anatomy courses, which cover topics such as breed identification, aggression, health issues, and first aid.
– Animal control officer certification programs, which are offered by several national and state organizations, and cover areas such as capture and confinement techniques, animal law and regulations, and public relations.
– Law enforcement training, which may be required for animal control officers who have law enforcement powers, such as arresting or citing violators, carrying firearms, or testifying in court. This training includes topics such as criminal justice, use of force, and civil rights.
– Continuing education and professional development, which are necessary to keep up with the changing laws, technologies, and practices in the field, and to advance to higher positions.

Animal control workers can progress in their career by gaining experience, skills, and certifications, and by moving up to supervisory, managerial, or administrative roles. Some examples of career paths in animal control include:

– Animal control officer/technician: The entry-level position that involves responding to calls, capturing and impounding animals, and performing animal care tasks.
– Animal cruelty investigator/enforcement officer: The position that involves investigating and pursuing animal abuse or neglect cases, and working with law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and animal welfare organizations.
– Animal shelter manager/director: The position that involves overseeing the daily operations of an animal shelter or humane society, including managing staff, volunteers, budgets, and programs, and promoting adoptions and community outreach.
– Animal control director/supervisor: The position that involves managing and directing the overall animal control services of a municipality, county, or state, including policy development, budgeting, planning, and interagency coordination.

To get into the field of animal control, especially if you’re new, there are several steps you can take:

– Volunteer or intern at an animal shelter or rescue organization to gain hands-on experience in animal handling, care, and behavior, and to network with professionals in the field.
– Take online or in-person courses, workshops, or seminars in animal welfare, protection, or advocacy, to have a broader understanding of the issues and challenges in the field, and to enhance your resume.
– Research and apply for job openings at local, state, or national animal control agencies, and be prepared to demonstrate your passion, skills, and qualifications in your application and interview.
– Join or support animal advocacy groups, such as the Humane Society of the United States, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or local organizations that promote animal rights, welfare, and protection, to stay informed and connected with the community.

In conclusion, animal control workers play a vital role in protecting and promoting the welfare of animals, and ensuring the safety and health of humans. The job requires a blend of knowledge, skills, and empathy, and provides opportunities for growth and advancement. If you’re interested in becoming an animal control worker, start by learning all you can about the field, and taking concrete steps to gain experience and education.