There are many misconceptions about Animal Control in California. Animal Planet broadcasts TV shows that depict Humane Officers in other states across the nation, and people believe that these shows are an accurate depiction of Animal Control in California. This leads to the general public being unaware of how Animal Control actually works in California. Below are five facts about Animal Control that you did not know:
Animal Control Officers are not the bad guys
Animal Control Officers are often viewed as evil dog catchers. A dog catcher’s only goal in life is to lure a dog off its property, and then to steal it. This is simply not true. Animal Control Officers are the good guys. Their goal is to promote public safety and animal welfare. The last thing they want is to take another dog to the dog pound.
Animal Control Officers are Law Enforcement Officers
The role of an Animal Control Officer is no longer a dog catcher with a net. These individuals are recognized as Law Enforcement Officers by the California Penal Code. They have all the same powers of a Police Officer. This means that they can issue citations, make arrests, and execute warrants. Animal Control Officers must complete California Penal Code 832 Arrest and Firearms training to exercise these powers.
Animal Control Officers risk their safety
Animal Control Officers are often required to put themselves in harms way for public safety and animal welfare. When there is an aggressive dog around, Animal Control Officers are responsible for capturing it. There are tools available to help an Animal Control Officer remain safe, but it is not a guarantee of safety. Animal Control Officers also execute search warrants, and force entry into properties to investigate felony crimes. The individuals being investigated sometimes become violent, further putting an Animal Control Officer’s safety at risk. Some departments have issued bullet proof vests because of the situations Animal Control Officers are required to put themselves in.
Animal Control Officers do not work for the Humane Society or SPCA
One of the largest misconceptions surrounding Animal Control Officers is that they work for the Humane Society or the SPCA. Animal Control Officers work directly for the local government. This may be at the County or City level of government. The Humane Society or SPCA may employ Humane Officers, who require different training, different appointment methods, and are governed by a different section of law. Humane Officers are only present when a local government contracts out the Animal Control Services for their area.
Animal Control offers many careers
There are many positions within an Animal Control Department. These positions include Shelter Workers, Administrators, Office Staff, and Veterinary Staff. Each of these positions is equally fulfilling and helpful to an Animal Control Department. Regardless what skills someone has, they can find a place within an Animal Control Department, and if they are unable to find anything there are always volunteer opprotunites.
Animal Control Agencies in California are always evolving, and the facts surrounding them can be hard to find by the general public. These five facts are true now, but in ten years may become misconceptions of the general public as these agencies evolve.