The minimum requirements for becoming an animal control officer may differ by region and jurisdiction. Some jobs have no educational requirements, while others require candidates to have a bachelor’s degree. In most cases, however, a person must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or an equivalent credential to be considered for this position.
A person who wants to become an animal control officer can apply for the job and receive on-the-job training in places where only a high school diploma is required. Before applying for this job, it may be beneficial to gain some experience as a worker or volunteer in an animal shelter, hospital, or kennel. One can gain valuable firsthand knowledge of animal care and treatment by doing so. When compared to other job candidates who lack this experience, someone with this background may have an easier time getting hired.
A bachelor’s degree in animal science, law enforcement, or criminal justice may be pursued in jurisdictions where a college diploma is required. In order to become an animal control officer, a person could major in veterinary technology. Earning a bachelor’s or even an associate’s degree in one of these fields may make a person more attractive as a job candidate even in places where such degrees are not required.
Even if the individual does not pursue a degree, there are certain courses of study that are particularly beneficial for anyone who wants to become an animal control officer. They include research into animal control laws and regulations that pertain to animal cruelty. It’s also beneficial if an aspiring animal control officer has a basic understanding of common animal diseases and how to administer first aid to animals. Learning basic criminal laws and procedures could also be beneficial.
A person who wants to become an animal control officer should have a genuine love for animals in addition to education and training. Prospective animal control officers must also have excellent communication skills in order to communicate with other members of the animal control team and to write reports when necessary. An animal control officer may have to deal with police or other law enforcement officers who aren’t used to working with animals on occasion. In these situations, good communication skills are also important.