Animal Control Basic Course

The Southwest Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy will be conducting an Animal Control Basic Course on June 7^th – 25^th, 2027. This entry-level certification course equips participants with the essential knowledge, legal authority, and practical skills necessary to perform the duties of an Animal Control Officer professionally, safely, and effectively.

Note: This is a 15-day (120-hour) school. Certified Law Enforcement Officers will be exempt from the third week of the course but will need to successfully complete the first two weeks for certification.

Course Information

• Completion of this course satisfies the 120-hour entry level training requirements for the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for entry level animal control officers
• The Animal Control Basic School will provide instruction in:
  • Virginia animal control laws and local ordinance enforcement
  • Animal handling and restraint techniques
  • Investigations of cruelty, neglect, and abuse cases
  • Animal sciences to include first aid and provision of veterinary care
  • Rabies control and public health considerations
  • Dangerous dog procedures and liability issues
  • Officer safety and field operations
  • Shelter operations and animal welfare standards

Tuition: Free to member agencies

                $1,200.00 for non-members

Dress: Business Casual

Registration: Register on TRACER