Dog Control Officer

Job Description

This is routine work performed to enforce dog control laws and ordinances as prescribed by Article 7 of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law. Incumbents have peace officer status and are responsible for instituting court actions for violations of the applicable laws and ordinances. The work is performed under general supervision and requires skill and the exercise of independent judgment in handling and controlling dogs. The work is sometimes physically demanding or hazardous when it is performed during inclement weather or involves vicious dogs. Supervision is not performed in this class; does related work as required.

Typical Work Activities

• Patrols in a specially equipped vehicle to observe and take corrective action in cases of unlicensed or unleashed dogs.
• Receives and investigates complaints from the public or a police agency regarding dogs at large, barking or vicious dogs, or injured dogs.
• Seizes or impounds unlicensed dogs or unleashed dogs at large.
• In case of licensed dogs, informs owners of complaints concerning their dogs and violations of state laws or local ordinances; issues appearance tickets or other process related to violations.
• Maintains records relating to patrol activities, complaints received, investigations and disposition of cases.
• Transports injured or sick dogs to a veterinarian or to a proper official or agency.
• Depending on the area of assignment, may maintain an animal shelter and collect fees for the sale of impounded stray dogs.
• May take appropriate action regarding sick or injured domestic animals other than dogs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Good knowledge of the provisions of local ordinances and applicable state laws pertaining to the licensing of dogs.
• Skill in the handling of dogs.
• Ability to deal courteously, tactfully and firmly with the public.
• Ability to understand and carry out written or oral directions.
• Ability to maintain records.
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Minimum Qualifications

There are no minimum qualifications for this classification.

Benefits

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance
• Retirement plan