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Animal Control Workers

Handle animals for the purpose of investigations of mistreatment, or control of abandoned, dangerous, or unattended animals.

Other names for Animal Control Workers: Animal Attendant, Animal Control Officer, Animal Cop, Animal Cruelty Investigation Supervisor, Animal Cruelty Investigator, Animal Park Code Enforcement Officer, Animal Treatment Investigator, Animal Warden, Canine Service Instructor-Trainer, Community Service Officer, Dog Catcher, Dog Control Officer, Dog Pound Attendant, Dog Warden, Humane Agent, Humane Officer, Police Officer,

What do Animal Control Workers do?

  • Investigate reports of animal attacks or animal cruelty, interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and writing reports.
  • Capture and remove stray, uncontrolled, or abused animals from undesirable conditions, using nets, nooses, or tranquilizer darts as necessary.
  • Examine animals for injuries or malnutrition, and arrange for any necessary medical treatment.
  • Remove captured animals from animal-control service vehicles and place animals in shelter cages or other enclosures.
  • Euthanize rabid, unclaimed, or severely injured animals.
  • Supply animals with food, water, and personal care.
  • Clean facilities and equipment such as dog pens and animal control trucks.
  • Prepare for prosecutions related to animal treatment, and give evidence in court.
  • Educate the public about animal welfare, and animal control laws and regulations.
  • Contact animal owners to inform them that their pets are at animal holding facilities.
  • Write reports of activities, and maintain files of impoundments and dispositions of animals.
  • Issue warnings or citations in connection with animal-related offenses, or contact police to report violations and request arrests.
  • Answer inquiries from the public concerning animal control operations.
  • Examine animal licenses, and inspect establishments housing animals for compliance with laws.
  • Organize the adoption of unclaimed animals.
  • Train police officers in dog handling and training techniques for tracking, crowd control, and narcotics and bomb detection.