Animal control officers protect and rescue domesticated animals, investigating cases of abuse and neglect, reuniting lost pets with their owners, and educating the public on animal care. Physical fitness, compassion, and knowledge of animal care and law enforcement are important for success in this field. High school diploma or equivalent is required, and on-the-job training is often provided.
An animal control officer protects and rescues domesticated animals. He might work for a government-funded agency or a non-profit group dedicated to protecting animals. Much of his work is usually done alone, although he may enlist the help of a co-worker if asked to investigate an escalating situation or one involving multiple animals.
If animal abuse is reported, normally an animal control officer is dispatched to the alleged crime scene to inspect the scene. He usually investigates the physical condition of the animals and interviews the animal owners. Animals are removed from the premises if the officer finds evidence of neglect, inhumane treatment, malnutrition or illness.
Animals that get separated from their owners are often rescued by an animal control officer. If they are domestic animals, such as dogs or cats, he usually takes them to his agency to protect them while attempts are made to reunite them with their owners. Unclaimed pets are typically put up for adoption if they are not claimed within a prescribed time period.
In some cases, a police officer may be alerted to a situation where too many neglected animals are found in one location. Pets often suffer from various diseases, live in squalor and are poorly fed. Pet owners in these circumstances are usually prosecuted, fined and sometimes jailed. Abused animals often receive health care and good homes are often found for them.
To promote the care and protection of animals in their community, an animal control officer often talks with groups of school children about pet care and feeding. Cats and dogs usually accompany the officer to these presentations to allow children to pet them while learning about animal care and maintenance. The officer may also give presentations to groups of adults to educate them on the benefits of pet population control.
Having compassion and appreciation for animals is a general requirement for success in this work. Patience is considered a valuable asset in dealing effectively with pets and often with sensitive and emotional owners. As animals sometimes need to be restrained by force, being in good physical shape is a general requirement.
Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is required to apply for this position. On-the-job training is often offered for animal control jobs. Experience in animal care or law enforcement is highly recommended. Knowledge of common animal diseases and treatments is also considered helpful for applicants for this job.
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