Animal Control Officer

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Enforcement and administrative work enforcing all relevant state statutes, inclusive of the duties imposed by M.G.L. Chap. 140 on “dog officers”, and local ordinances as they relate to animals. Performs responsible tasks which require the exercise of judgment and initiative, occasionally under emergency conditions. Other related work as required.

Works under the general supervision of the Westfield Police Commission as appointing authority, as delegated there by the Mayor, and under the direct supervision of the Police Chief and the Police Captain. May supervise one other person in the performance of these duties.

• Operates a light truck or van; may operate power tools, hand tools, telephones, radios and such standard office equipment as a desktop computer. Keeps assigned vehicle, tools and equipment in neat and clean condition.
• Makes frequent contact, requiring courtesy, patience and tact, with concerned animal owners as well as other members of the public; coordinates activities with other city departments, county andjx State officers, veterinarians, animal shelters and humane societies.
• Explains applicable laws and ordinances which relate to animals within the City; informs individuals of specific legal
  745 requirements, criminal justice procedures and health issues as they relate to animals; assists individuals with problems associated with domesticated or wild animals; issues warnings or citations to violators. Must attend courses/seminars as directed by the Chief.
• Maintains working relationships with City departments and outside public and private agencies; assists in developing and is responsible for following established protocols with respect thereto.
• Patrols streets; responds to Health Department requests, responds to calls from dispatch; investigates animal complaints and dog bites and maintains a daily log of all activity.
• Prepares and maintains documents, including police incident reports, relating to animal control issues and situations; advances the City’s interests; testifies in court as required
  
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• Picks up injured animals and obtains medical treatment as required; responsible to pick up and dispose of dead animals in conformance with state and local laws.
• Works with humane societies, veterinarians and the general public to care for injured animals and to place abandoned animals. Prepares articles regarding the proper way to raise and treat domesticated animals and how to deal with wild animals.
• Makes and refers complaints against owners of dogs not properly licensed, collared and confined.
• Keeps records of the number of stray dogs captured and their disposition, owners, number of complaints and all other information with respect thereto required by law. Submits monthly reports to the Chief, annual report to the Mayor.
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• Tracks events intimidated under State Law, ensures proper reporting of such events, assures proper preparation and submission of animal samples for testing as required by State Law, and maintains records thereof. Working in conjunction with the Health Department prepares newspaper notices concerning health issues (rabies, West Nile, Bird Flu).
• Conducts inspections as directed by the Health Department and coordinates with police officers in animal control situations.
• May be assigned any other duties as related to assist department function.

Must be available 24 hrs per day or make arrangements in his/her absence to handle emergencies as directed by the Chief. Must carry a personal identification card issued by the Chief of Police identifying the holder as the Animal Control Officer for the City of Westfield. Must wear a uniform and carry a sidearm and/or rifle as required by the Chief.

High School graduate or equivalent with two years higher education in veterinary medicine, veterinary technology or related field. Two years of full-time animal control or full-time veterinary medicine experience or…