How to Become an Animal Cruelty Cop in Minnesota

If you are a lover of animals, a career as a humane officer may be the right path for you.

If you are passionate about animals, becoming an animal cruelty cop might be the job for you. In Minnesota alone, there are several opportunities for someone pursuing a career in animal control; these include jobs available at nonprofit organizations such as the Minnesota Animal Control Association and the Minnesota Humane Society. Depending on where you are employed, your job duties will vary. However, no matter where you are, as a Minnesota humane officer you can be sure you will make a difference.

Instructions

1. Volunteer at animal shelters, veterinarian offices or kennels. Experience working with animals is a must when exploring a career in animal control. Many organizations, such as the Minnesota Humane Society, have online forms you can fill out for volunteer work. The Carver-Scott Humane Society in Chaska, Minnesota, has online job registration for those interested in more opportunities.

2. Get your high school diploma or GED equivalent while volunteering. A high school education or background in animal science is a good way to get noticed in the field. Students studying criminal justice can also consider a career as a humane officer. Community colleges typically offer post-secondary courses on animal behavior, emergency medical and criminal justice.

3. Enroll in a mentor program that allows you to observe a professional humane officer performing his regular daily duties. These programs will give you an idea of what to expect when you become an animal cruelty cop, as well as provide you with vital information and experience.

4. Get certified and trained in euthanasia, animal CPR, behavioral evaluation, animal first aid and methods of immobilizing animals through the use of chemicals. These advanced certifications will give you the extra push you need to get into the field. The Minnesota Animal Control Association is one organization that provides training for animal control personnel.

5. Keep yourself physically fit and understand that you must have good stamina and strength to become an animal cruelty cop. This job requires you to track and contain animals that may be injured or aggressive.

References

• Dog Channel; How to Become an Animal Control Officer; Denise Flaim
• Degree Directory: What Type of Schooling Do I Need to Become an Animal Cop?

Resources

• Minnesota Humane Society
• Carver-Scott Humane Society
• Minnesota Animal Control Association