POSITION: Animal Control Officer
DEPARTMENT: Sheriff

FUNCTION

Enforces the animal control laws as adopted by Bland County as well as those of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Responsible for keeping accurate written records of animal control activities for possible enforcement action through the court system.

JOB CONTENT

Administers all state and county laws pertaining to animal control activities under the supervision of the Sheriff.

Enforces the Comprehensive Animal Laws, Title 3.1 of the Code of Virginia and Chapter 6 of the Bland County Code.

Abides by the Animal Control Law Handbook of Virginia.

Patrols the county checking for unlicensed dogs; captures and holds stray dogs without licenses or identification while determining ownership; transports sick, vicious and stray dogs whose owners cannot be identified to the Wythe County Animal Shelter.

Responds to emergency calls at night and/or on weekends, as needed, when there is a likelihood of immediate harm to people and/or other animals.

Writes summonses for violations of animal control laws.

Handles complaints and investigates claims made by citizens regarding destruction of property by stray dogs and other loose animals.

Maintains accurate records of all stray dogs found and of all dog licenses purchased in the county.

Prepares a monthly report of animal control activities for review by the Board of Supervisors.

Responsible for the safe and sanitary upkeep of the County issued vehicle and all animal control equipment/supplies.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Requires graduation from an accredited high school and at least one year of experience working with the public.

Experience in animal control or law enforcement field preferred.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS

Good social interaction skills; courteous yet firm with the public; ability to use discretion and judgment; ability to understand and carry out all oral or written instructions; ability to operate a light truck; skill in the use of firearms; interest in dogs and understanding of their proper treatment; willingness to develop an understanding of dog care through formal training; ability to pursue and bring into custody stray dogs; good physical condition.

Must complete the basic animal control course and subsequently, continuing education courses as approved by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, the State Veterinarian’s Office and/or Bland County that is deemed necessary for the position.

LAST REVISED: January 6, 2003

Phone: 276.688.4622

Mail:
P.O. Box 177
Bland, VA 24315