Top Criminal Justice Schools
- Ashford University Click for Recommended Degree Program
- Liberty University Online Click for Recommended Degree Program
- Colorado Technical University Click for Recommended Degree Program
Animal Cruelty Investigator
An important, but often overlooked, option for those who are interested in a law enforcement career is that of an animal cruelty investigator. Mistreatment and neglect of animals is a major focus of law enforcement agencies and humane societies. Those who choose this profession investigate and follow up on reports of animal abuse and neglect, remove animals from harmful situations, collect evidence, and aid in prosecution of the owners in trials. In many states, this field is included under animal control but others place it under a separate area of law enforcement. If you love animals and want to do your part to make sure that they are well cared for, consider going back to college and starting your career training in animal cruelty investigation.
Requirements to become an animal cruelty investigator
In order to become an animal cruelty investigator, you need a valid driver’s license and an excellent driving record. It will also greatly help you to take college courses in psychology and sociology as well as other related courses. Depending on your preferences and personal needs, you may take these through either a traditional or an online college. Many students find that distance education is preferable because of the convenience it offers. Further, you will need a deep knowledge of the animal abuse laws of your state as well as an understanding of law enforcement procedures and practices.
If you love animals, this can be an extremely rewarding career but you have to maintain a thick skin to deal with the harsh realities of animal cruelty. It takes a great deal of emotional strength to come to terms with the fact that not all animals can be saved. You must also be able to remain professional even in cases of extreme animal suffering. You will be required to use tact and patience when dealing with people who do not take responsibility for the damage they cause or do not understand the severity of their crimes.
Education and training to become an animal cruelty investigator
In many states, you must complete basic law enforcement training and become certified as a peace officer before you can become an animal cruelty investigator. Others require you to be in a related field such as military, security, or law enforcement, where you have at least one year of field experience. Because of the increasing demands for skilled workers, increasing numbers of colleges are offering courses that deal specifically with animal abuse and related investigations. When you get your training, you will be trained in abuse laws, ways of dealing with people, interviewing cruelty witnesses, documentation, photography of wounds and problems, and maintaining a chain of evidence custody.
When you become an animal cruelty investigator, you are committing yourself to protecting animals and to improving the lives of those who are being mistreated. This job can be extremely stressful but also provides amazing opportunities to make a true difference in the world. Depending on the area in which you work, the amount of experience you have, and your particular job description, you can easily earn $31,000 a year or more in this great career field.
