Animal control requirements vary widely, based on local, state and federal law. Most agencies require only good driving skills and a clean background check. Some might also look for animal-handling experience, good communication or computer skills and exceptional physical and emotional stability.
Driving Skills
A clean driving record is a must for a prospective animal control officer. About half of an officer's day will be spent driving from call to call, and she has to be able to handle a vehicle safely while listening and responding to radio traffic, even in rough terrain or bad weather.
Background Check
Many agencies require new hires to pass the same background check a police officer would, and will not hire those with criminal convictions, significant debt issues or psychological impairments.
Animal Experience
Animal control officers handle frightened, sick, injured and aggressive animals, and not just dogs and cats. Livestock and wildlife might also need help. Any experience in handling or caring for different kinds of animals will be useful.
Communication Skills
An animal control officer has four times as much contact with the public than a police officer does, according to the National Animal Control Association. As he educates callers, helps victims understand their rights and writes reports for court, an animal control officer must be able to communicate quickly and clearly.
Judgment/Character
Being an animal control officer can be a hard, dirty, exhausting job, and the "bad" calls will outnumber the "good" ones on many days. Animal control agencies want to hire officers who are strong and stable, both emotionally and physically.
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