Officers in the field are often faced with complicated and potentially dangerous situations. By understanding how to read and understand the language of canines, many situations can be avoided or mitigated prior to them becoming unsafe. The better the officer is at pairing the behavior of the animal with the most appropriate and least aversive tool, the safer the situation for the officer, the community and the animal. This foundational course first focuses on understanding what a dog may be communicating through facial expressions and body language, as well as how dogs may interpret our body language and tone of voice. Then the course covers decision making, situational awareness and de-escalation techniques. Finally, a series of videos allow the opportunity to evaluate real-life situations in the field. 

This course was authored by Fernando Diaz, CDBC, CSBS, CPDT-KA, FFCP, Behavior Center Academy Manager, San Diego Humane Society, Amanda Kowalski, M.S., CPDT-KA, CAWA, UW-AAB, Vice President of Animal Welfare, San Diego Humane Society, and Jerrica Owen, Executive Director, National Animal Care & Control Association. 

Officers in the field are often faced with difficult and highly emotionally charged situations. These situations can often easily be diffused with appropriate language, and communication is the most important tool in your belt. As an officer, you are in the people business as much as you are in the animal business. Your communication tools directly impact the success or failure of the cases, individuals and communities in which you work. This course has a strong foundation of communication in general as well as going into deeper details about verbal and nonverbal communication. Approved for 1.5 hours of CAWA and NACA CE. 

NOTE: This course will also be useful for staff members and volunteers who are not field officers. 

keywords: animal control, ACO

This course focuses on innovative programming that will inspire and engage officers to evolve with the changing landscape of the industry. It offers an eye-opening look into the future of a more equitable approach to field services and practical strategies for engaging with community members. After successfully completing this course students will be able to:

*Explain the need for support-based enforcement and the benefits for people and their pets, as well as for officers and agencies charged with public safety

*Explain the need for community engagement strategies and the benefits for people and their pets, as well as for officers and agencies charged with public safety

*Collect and analyze critical data to drive programming and measure success

*Demonstrate the importance of community-centered field services programming to agency leadership and staff and to external partners

*Implement a community-centered field services model that maintains public safety

keywords: animal control, ACO, lost pets 

This course covers safe, effective and humane use of standard-issue field services equipment. Videos present humane concepts and safe handling techniques. Use of tools and equipment is demonstrated by Animal Capture and Handling Instructor John Peaveler.

keywords: animal control, animal protection, dog handling, cat handling