Animal Control Workers
Animal control workers respond to calls involving stray, abandoned, injured, or dangerous animals. They investigate animal mistreatment complaints, capture and safely contain animals, and transport them to shelters or facilities. This work takes place across cities, counties, and rural areas, with animal control officers working from vehicles and in the field.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against animal control workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves responding to calls about loose dogs, cats, or wildlife in neighborhoods and businesses. Workers use nets, traps, and protective equipment to safely capture animals, document incidents, and complete paperwork. Duties include transporting animals to shelters, testifying in court about cruelty cases, and educating the public about animal safety and local ordinances.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be practical and detail-oriented, preferring hands-on work with clear procedures and rules to follow. You're comfortable working with animals and can stay calm in unpredictable situations while following established protocols and regulations.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $52,400 | $66,440 | $78,750 | 180 |
| Oregon | $60,800 | $66,130 | $72,500 | 40 |
| Alaska | $46,820 | $63,340 | $70,050 | 30 |
| California | $54,940 | $62,630 | $72,020 | 1,210 |
| Massachusetts | $50,130 | $60,930 | $73,010 | 280 |
| Nevada | $47,900 | $58,810 | $67,870 | 100 |
| Colorado | $49,330 | $58,470 | $64,000 | 170 |
| Connecticut | $44,460 | $57,130 | $73,070 | 220 |
| Rhode Island | $49,650 | $55,060 | $59,720 | 70 |
| Iowa | $46,990 | $54,190 | $58,250 | 80 |
| Wyoming | $46,270 | $53,870 | $57,860 | 40 |
| Maryland | $47,050 | $53,330 | $63,500 | 140 |
All 44 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- NACA ACO I (ACO) — National Animal Care and Control Association
- NACA ACO II (ACO) — National Animal Care and Control Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against animal control workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-9011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.