Animal Control Workers: Career & Application Guide

What do animal control workers do?

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

This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.

O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.

Write reports of activities, and maintain files of impoundments and dispositions of animals.
Investigate reports of animal attacks or animal cruelty, interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and writing reports.
Examine animals for injuries or malnutrition, and arrange for any necessary medical treatment.
Contact animal owners to inform them that their pets are at animal holding facilities.
Educate the public about animal welfare, and animal control laws and regulations.
Remove captured animals from animal-control service vehicles and place animals in shelter cages or other enclosures.
Answer inquiries from the public concerning animal control operations.
Capture and remove stray, uncontrolled, or abused animals from undesirable conditions, using nets, nooses, or tranquilizer darts as necessary.
Prepare for prosecutions related to animal treatment, and give evidence in court.
Supply animals with food, water, and personal care.

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Build a resume evidence worksheet using the skills and software relevant to that employer.
Practice explaining your contribution, decisions and results before an interview.

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