Animal control
officers must often rescue animals from abusive conditions.
Gone are the days when animal control officers were basically dog catchers. Animal control officers perform a wide range services ranging from catching stray animals to investigating reports of animal cruelty. Animal control officers are highly trained and skilled law enforcement officials who enforce local and state animal control and safety laws. Most work for local and state governments. A career in this field requires a combination of education, training and hands-on work experience. And, of course, a love for animals doesn't hurt, either.
Instructions
1. Get a high school diploma or GED. Make sure you have a valid Idaho driver's license.
2. Apply for a volunteer position with the Idaho Humane Society (IDS). Performing volunteer work with the IDS gives you hands-on experience working with animals. Applications are available on the IDS website.
3. Enroll in an accredited Idaho college, university or vocational school. Get an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree in animal science, criminal justice or a related field. For example, the University of Idaho offers a degree in animal science and Idaho State University offers a degree in criminal justice.
4. Attend the National Animal Control Association (NACA) training academy. Check the NASA training schedule for training programs nearest you. Once you complete the training you'll earn your certification as an animal control officer.
5. Seek employment with your local or state government. Check with your local police departments and the county sheriff's office as well. Also, review the job listings posted on the NACA website.
Filed operations work includes tradtional animal control duties as well as cruelty investigations, bite investigations and rabies investigations.
Tags: control officers, Animal control officers, local state, Animal control, animal control