Animal Control Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly urbanized world, the need for Animal Control Officers is more prevalent than ever.

As human habitats expand, the necessity for professionals who can manage, protect and handle our interactions with animals heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Animal Control Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of animal control,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Animal Control Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Animal Control Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Control Officers ensure the safety of the community and the welfare of animals through enforcement of animal control laws and humane education.

They often work for city or county governments and may be a part of the local police department.

Their responsibilities and duties include:

• Responding to calls concerning stray, injured, abused or dangerous animals
• Patrolling public areas to monitor animal behavior and secure loose animals
• Investigating reports of animal cruelty or neglect
• Transporting captured animals to shelters or veterinary offices for treatment and care
• Issuing citations and warnings to individuals violating animal control laws
• Inspecting facilities where animals are kept to ensure they meet legal standards
• Educating the public about animal control safety and laws
• Preparing reports on animal control activities
• Euthanizing seriously ill or dangerous animals in a humane manner if necessary
• Conducting animal adoption processes, including application review and home visits

 

Animal Control Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a dedicated Animal Control Officer to ensure the well-being of animals and the community.

You will be responsible for responding to calls concerning stray, injured, or neglected animals, enforcing local and regional animal control regulations, and educating the community about animal safety and welfare.

An excellent candidate is a compassionate individual with a strong understanding of animals and relevant laws, and is skilled in handling and caring for different animal species.

 

Responsibilities

• Responding to and investigating reports of stray, injured, or neglected animals
• Patrolling assigned areas to enforce local and regional animal control regulations
• Capturing and impounding dangerous or stray animals
• Investigating animal cruelty cases and collecting evidence for legal actions
• Educating the community about animal safety and welfare
• Preparing and maintaining a variety of records, including incident and activity reports
• Providing emergency first aid to injured animals
• Coordinating with veterinary professionals for further treatment or euthanasia
• Assisting in the adoption and rehabilitation of animals

 

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Proven work experience as an Animal Control Officer or similar role
• Knowledge of animal breeds, behavior, and handling
• Understanding of animal welfare laws and regulations
• Ability to handle potentially dangerous animals safely
• Physical fitness to capture and restrain animals
• Excellent communication and public relation skills
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• First aid certification for animals is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• On-the-job training

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal Control Officer
• Work Environment: Outdoor field work with exposure to potentially dangerous animals and conditions. On-call and emergency response may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Animal Control Supervisor or Public Safety Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Animal Control Officer Do?

Animal Control Officers typically work for government departments, animal shelters, or non-profit organizations that deal with animal welfare.

Their primary role involves investigating cases of animal mistreatment, responding to nuisance complaints about animals, and capturing stray, uncontrolled, or abused animals from the streets or abusive homes.

They may conduct investigations on reports of animal attacks or animal cruelty, and are responsible for enforcing local and regional laws related to animal control.

In some cases, they may be required to educate the public about pet vaccination laws, leash laws, or ways to properly care for pets.

Animal Control Officers also have to prepare reports on their activities, maintain records of animal control activities, and keep track of the number of animals handled.

In addition, they may assist veterinarians in euthanizing severely injured, sick, or unadoptable animals.

They play a critical role in ensuring the safety of animals and people in the community.

 

Animal Control Officer Qualifications and Skills

An Animal Control Officer should have the necessary qualifications and skills that are in line with your job description, which could include:

• Comprehensive knowledge of local, state, and federal animal control regulations and laws to ensure all activities are compliant.
• Strong ability to handle and control animals of varying sizes and species to protect the public and the animals themselves.
• Excellent observational skills to identify signs of animal distress, disease, or injury.
• Communication skills to interact with the public, explain control laws, and potentially educate them on proper animal care.
• Physical stamina and strength to capture and restrain animals, sometimes under challenging circumstances.
• Ability to make difficult decisions in high-stress situations, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills.
• Experience or training in veterinary science or animal care to provide appropriate care to animals in custody.
• Strong empathy and understanding towards animals, ensuring their humane treatment at all times.

 

Animal Control Officer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Animal Control Officers generally require a high school diploma or equivalent, and it is beneficial if candidates have some prior experience working with animals.

This could be through volunteering at animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or even pet sitting.

Most Animal Control Officer roles require a minimum of 1-2 years of experience in animal care or control.

This experience can be gained through full-time or part-time roles at animal shelters, zoos, veterinary clinics, or pet adoption centers.

For candidates with more than 3 years of experience, they would have typically enhanced their skills in animal behavior, handling of various animal species, and knowledge of state and local animal control regulations.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership or supervisory experience.

These individuals are usually capable of managing an animal control facility, training new animal control officers, or supervising animal control operations.

Additionally, they may have experience dealing with complex animal control issues such as wildlife management or animal cruelty investigations.

 

Animal Control Officer Education and Training Requirements

Animal Control Officers typically need a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

However, some employers may prefer candidates who have completed some postsecondary education in animal science, law enforcement or a related field.

In addition to educational qualifications, Animal Control Officers need to complete a state-approved animal control certification course.

This training provides officers with a fundamental understanding of animal behavior, safe animal handling techniques, disease control, and local animal laws.

Work experience with animals, such as in a veterinary office or animal rescue center, can be beneficial and in some cases, may be substituted for educational requirements.

Some states require Animal Control Officers to be licensed.

The requirements for licensing often include being at least 18 years old, having a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a background check, and completing state-approved training.

Many Animal Control Officers also choose to earn additional certification in areas like animal cruelty investigation or wildlife management to further their careers and improve their skills.

A driving license is typically required as Animal Control Officers often need to respond to calls and transport animals.

 

Animal Control Officer Salary Expectations

An Animal Control Officer can expect to earn an average salary of $37,580 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary significantly depending on factors such as years of experience, level of education, location, and the specific employing organization.

 

Animal Control Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal Control Officer need?

Animal Control Officers should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills as they often interact with the public and other professionals.

They should also have good problem-solving skills to make quick and effective decisions in potentially dangerous situations.

Physical fitness is also crucial due to the nature of the work, as is empathy for animals.

Knowledge of local laws related to animal control is another important skill.

 

Do Animal Control Officers need any specific qualifications?

Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, although some employers may prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, animal science or a related field.

Animal Control Officers must also complete a training program and obtain certification in animal control and humane law enforcement.

Some states may require officers to be certified in euthanasia as well.

 

What should you look for in an Animal Control Officer’s resume?

First and foremost, you should check if the candidate has the required training and certifications.

Experience in handling animals, knowledge of local animal laws, and first aid skills are also beneficial.

You should also look for evidence of physical fitness, experience working with the public, and problem-solving skills.

 

What qualities make a good Animal Control Officer?

A good Animal Control Officer should be compassionate and have a genuine love for animals, as they often deal with distressed animals.

They need to be physically fit as the job can be physically demanding, and they should be able to handle stressful situations calmly.

Strong interpersonal skills are also necessary as they often interact with the public and other professionals.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Animal Control Officer?

Finding the right candidate for an Animal Control Officer can be a challenge.

This role requires a unique blend of skills, including physical fitness, empathy for animals, and a comprehensive understanding of local animal laws.

Potential candidates need to be prepared for both the rewarding and challenging aspects of the job, including dealing with distressed animals and potentially upset owners.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on what it truly entails to be an Animal Control Officer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about retrieving stray animals.

It’s about ensuring the safety and well-being of both the animals and the public, one case at a time.

With our reliable Animal Control Officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re well equipped to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every animal case handled is a step towards a safer and more harmonious community.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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