Animal Cops, also called Animal Control Officers, typically help the healthy/injured stray animals. They also investigate reports on animal abuse or cruelty. In addition to that, they are sometimes tasked with removing undesired animals from peoples’ homes or neighborhoods.

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Should I Become an Animal Cop in Michigan?

Animal Cops are trained to take preventive measures against getting attacked, bitten or scratched while rescuing or dealing with animals. Their line of work involves such occupational hazards therefore, they are required to stay cautious and alert. In addition to going out in the field and rescuing or handling animals, they are also required to write detailed reports of every case they handle. Moreover, they must maintain a proper record of all the cases they get involved in.

  • Education Required
  • Major Requirement
  • License/Certification
  • Experience/Training
  • Key Skills
  • Annual Mean Salary (2022)-Michigan
  • Annual Mean Salary (2022)-National
  • Job Outlook(2021-2031)
  • At least a high school diploma or GED
  • Animal Science, Law Enforcement or another relevant subject
  • A certification in Animal Control
  • Experience in the field is preferred by employers
  • Agility, Communication, Decision making, Patience and so on.
  • $43,070 (Animal Control Workers)
  • $43,780 (Animal Control Workers)
  • 29% (Animal Care and Service Workers)

Sources: O*NET OnLine and US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Outlook

In 2022, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 11,490 Animal Control Workers had been employed all over the US in various states. While, the state of Michigan had 240 Animal Control Workers employed in its boundaries. Moreover, the BLS reported State Government as the highest paying industry for this career with an annual mean salary of $51,890.

Steps to Become an Animal Cop in Michigan

If you love working with animals and want to serve as an Animal Cop in Michigan then this guide can help you achieve your dream! Here are 3 simple steps to becoming an Animal Cop.

Completing the Necessary Education

As mentioned earlier, you can enter this line of work with just a high school diploma or a GED. However to improve your job prospects in the long run, an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Animal Control, Law enforcement or a related subject would be very useful.

Certification in Animal Control

Many states, including the state of Michigan, require Animal Cops to be certified. The National Animal Control Association (NACA) offers numerous relevant certifications in this area and its certifications are accepted all over the US.

Gaining Field Experience

Although many employers provide on the job training to candidates, it is advantageous for all aspiring Animal Cops to gather some field experience by volunteering or getting an internship before applying to a specific job opening.

How Long Does It Take to Become an Animal Cop in Michigan?

It may take you approximately 2 to 4 years to become an Animal Cop depending upon whether or not you choose to complete a college degree. It also depends on the type of certification you complete and where and how much field experience you gather.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming an Animal Cop in Michigan?

If you want to be employed as an Animal Cop in the state of Michigan, you must:

  • Be a legal US citizen
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Complete at least 100 hours of training in Animal Control
  • Earn a certification in Animal Control from a state approved institution

How Much Can I Make as an Animal Cop in Michigan?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that Animal Control Workers employed in the state of Michigan earned an annual mean salary of $43,070 in 2022. On the other hand, New York was listed as the highest paying state for this career with an annual mean salary of $64,110.

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