How do i become an animal control officer?

Question

like the people on animal cops(on animal planet) haha. i want to arrest people, serve justice for all those abused animals :D so what college courses should i take? i think criminal justice is involved? and is there a good school that would specialize in things like that in california?

Answer 1

Usually Animal Control Officers are a specific branch of a city or county department.  Departments don't always have the same requirements, application process, etc.  

First, talk to the department you would like to work with.  Asking them questions will help you get a better feel for the department itself, and show the department that you are enthusiatic and eager to learn about and become an officer.

Second, do a ride along or two with the AC officers in that department.  This shows you what a typical day would be like...keep in mind that TV shows do not accurately portray real life...(a lot of people get what is reffered to as the "CSI Effect".  They see something on TV that excites/interests them, so they want to do this for a living.  They end up getting the job, only to realize its boring or not what they want to do, and either quit, or hate their job which leads to poor preformance...in other words, BE CAUTIOUS when considering any job because of a TV show.  The ride alongs should help you to decide if this IS or ISN'T what you want to do!)

3-look around at colleges, and ask their criminal justice board what other students in you position have done to be an AC officer.  They might be able to help you figure out a course plan, and decide what college may be best for you.  

I would imagine to be an AC officer you would need medical education.  Any old schmoe off the streets can become a police officer with a high school diploma or GED, so you don't really need to look primarily at criminal justice...

4-get a mentor!  most people are happy to help you along the way!  I'm sure the AC officers in your area aren't any different!

Good luck!