Animal Control Officer

State of Florida

Course Description

This training program is for students seeking certification as a Florida animal control officer.

It is a 40-hour training program that is only offered in an instructor-led, face-to-face, classroom environment. This course involves classroom presentations, student presentations, homework, assignments, and scenario-based training exercises that prepare the student for field work.

This course meets the mandatory training requirements prescribed by Chapter 828.27(4)(a)(1) Florida Statutes for all Florida animal control officers.

Training Topics

Fundamental ACO Knowledge

- History and Evolution of Animal Control
- Professional Public Service
- Animal Control Ethics and Values
- Courtroom Preparation

Legal Environment

- Constitutional Law
- U.S. Justice System
- Search and Seizure
- Florida Animal Laws

Animal Knowledge

- Fundamental Canine Knowledge
- Fundamental Feline Knowledge
- Fundamental Equine and Livestock Knowledge
- Exotics, reptiles, and pocket pets.

Field Operations

- Officer Fitness for Duty
- Animal Control Equipment
- Responding to Calls for Service
- Disaster Planning and Response

Investigations

- Fundamentals of Interviews
- Investigative Report Writing
- Crime Scene Analysis
- Chain of Custody

Veterinary Knowledge

- Internal and External Parasites
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Rabies Awareness and Prevention
- Biosecurity

Completion Standards

Training Hours

This is a 40-hour training program. Students must attend all in-class training presentations.

Assignments

Must complete all in-class and homework assignments. Students will research animal case law and Florida animal laws and present their findings to the class.

Assessment

Students must pass a written examination with a passing score of 80 percent or higher. Students will also conduct a scenario-based training exercise involving an animal welfare assessment.

Course Tuition

Early Registration

$550

General Registration

$600

Late Registration

$650

Certification Received

Students who successfully complete this training program will be presented with a certificate of training with the designation of Animal Control Officer – State of Florida. 

Per Chapter 828.27(4), animal control officers must complete 4 hours of continuing education training every two years.