Animal control workers perform a variety of tasks associated with animals in relation to the community. As ambassadors for animal welfare and public safety, animal control workers need to have good animal and interpersonal skills. The work is rewarding for people who enjoy helping animals and the community, but can be dangerous when unruly animals or owners are involved. The total employment for this field continues to grow but wages remain relatively low.
Types of Jobs
Animal control workers can perform a variety of tasks. Typically, animal control jobs involve working with domestic animals like dogs and cats. Capturing strays and removing abused or neglected animals from unsuitable conditions are the primary focuses of most animal control officers. But there are also animal control jobs working with wildlife. Wildlife management officers can also assist in removal of violent dogs and cats when necessary, so the two fields often work together to keep animals and communities safe.
Training
Most animal control workers complete their training on the job. Although an educational background in animal science or criminal justice is helpful, many entry-level positions only require a high school diploma. The National Animal Control Association also offers advanced training, certifications and workshops for continuing education.
Dangers
Animal control workers face a variety of dangers in the field. Scratches and bites from unruly animals are among the most common dangers. In severe instances where an animal has to be removed for welfare reasons, animal control workers are at risk of being assaulted by the owner. Animal control officers can be faced with verbal or physical attacks, which is why legal training is so important for this job. The physical nature of the job also puts animal control workers at risk for minor physical injuries not caused by animals.
Wages
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the average annual salary of an animal control worker was just over $26,000. The wages for this job varied geographically, with Nevada having the highest median annual salary of $42,000.
Outlook
In 2004, there were 15,000 animal control workers in the U.S., according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The number of workers in this field by 2014 is estimated to be 17,000, meaning this field is growing at an average rate.
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