How To Become An Animal Control Officer
|
|
An animal control officer answers calls of possible animal abuse, rescues strays and even works to find animals homes. They are also called humane law enforcement officers or animal services officer. This job doesn't necessary require any criminal justice degree, but the minimum of an associate's degree is preferred.
Unfortunately, there are too many cases of animal abuse, injury and neglect, so there needs to be advocates who protect the rights of these animals and fight to keep them from harm. An animal control officer can ensure the safety of both people and animals and make sure that animal abusers don't get let off the hook. If you want to have a job that empowers you to fight injustice and protect animals who can't protect themselves, look into the requirements of this career.
Job Description
There are many aspects to a job as an animal control officer, also known as a humane officer or animal services officer. The main role is to protect hurt or stray animals, but it also involves protecting people from vicious strays or pets. On a daily basis, a humane officer could receive calls to pick up stray animals, arrange for their adoption or in some cases disposal, answer calls of suspected animal abuse, puppy mills or dog fights or even manage an animal shelter. Although this job is usually controlled by the city, an animal control officer can also work for the local police department or health offices about animal issues. The tasks vary greatly, so you need to be able to handle a diverse workload and some occasionally tough situations.
Educational Requirements
There are different ways for you to get into this field, so it depends on the area you live in and the specific job requirements. In some cases, you may still gain access to an entry level position having only a high school diploma since they will train you on the job, but it's more common these days that positions will demand at least a minimum amount of post-secondary education in a related subject to be eligible.
You have a better chance at getting an entry level position by completing a 2 year associate's degree, and more offers will be available to you if you complete a 4 year bachelor's degree. The subject you study can also vary and includes related fields like criminology, veterinary technology, criminal justice or law enforcement.
Online options are also available at schools like AIU Online or the Universty of Phoenix. All majors will go over anti-cruelty and animal control laws, animal diseases and criminal procedures. This knowledge matched with your diligence and love of animals will make you suitable for this career.
Career Outlook
People are becoming more aware of animal abuse and more interested in making sure it is stopped, which is one of the reasons why the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an increase in the field of about 21% until 2018. They have also established that an average annual salary for an animal control officer is about $30,000, but it depends on the location and level of experience. Although it may not be the highest paying position among careers in criminal justice, working as an animal control officer empowers you to help poor, defenseless animals and make sure that people who violate animal rights laws are judged.
Criminal Justice Degree |
|
