NY A00369

Department of Agriculture and Markets shall develop a training, examination, and certification program for dog control officers, police officers, and peace officers dealing with animal control or animal abuse issues.

Dog control officers must complete department-approved training and pass an examination before appointment or within one year thereafter; currently employed officers must complete both by December 1, 2011.

Training program must cover officer responsibilities, humane animal handling, dog licensing laws, crisis intervention, animal housing resources, report writing, disposal of deceased animals, owner identification, and other relevant laws.

Licensed veterinarians are exempt from training requirements; police and peace officers may participate in training and certification but are not required to.

Political subdivisions must terminate appointments of dog control officers who fail to obtain certification within the required timeframe; the act takes effect July 1, 2013.