In 1983, pursuant to section 4 of P.L. 1983, c. 525, and in accordance with the “Administrative Procedure Act” 1968, the Commissioner of Health and Senior Services was required to adopt rules and regulations concerning the training and educational qualifications of Animal Control Officers. Two of the most important aspects of this statute were that Animal Control Officers were required to be State certified, and, all New Jersey municipalities were now required to appoint an Animal Control Officer. Today, there are over 1,500 Animal Control Officers who have been State Certified.
Although members may become certified, it is the position of the New Jersey Certified Animal Control Officers Association that individuals must continue education, training, and professional development.
