Announcing NACA ACO III

Announcing NACA ACO III

by | Jun 5, 2024 | Announcements, Blog, News, Training

Join Waitlist For Next ACO III Session
ACO III In-Person Agenda

January 13-15, 2025 Session is Full!
Click Here to Join the Waitlist.

We will let you know when the next class dates are open for registration. Any questions contact dhawks@nacanet.org

 

PLEASE NOTE THE ONLINE PRE-REQUISITE:
You must complete the online portion of the course prior to attending the in-person training in Gainsville, Florida. 

Course Description

The wait is over! Join the NACA ACO III Advanced Training Program focused on animal crime forensics with an emphasis on compassionate animal control work. Elevate your skills in investigating and addressing animal cruelty cases while promoting humane treatment and care to people and pets.

This is a two-part course that includes 10 hours online, and 3 days in person @ University of Florida!
  • Cost: $495 (excludes food, lodging, travel, or transportation)
  • Download ACO III Course Outline
  • Certificate of Completion for Online course (worth 10 contact hours)
    Required for registration or admission to In-Person portion – bring the certificate with you!
  • Instructor Led (3 days @ University of Florida)Over the course of a three-day in-person training, participants will engage in a comprehensive exploration of various forensic techniques and practices relevant to animal control officers. The first day begins with sessions on animal crime scene processing, followed by forensic photography, including hands-on exercises to enhance practical skills. The day concludes with discussions on live animal evidence and veterinary forensic pathology. The second day delves into forensic entomology, the investigation of clandestine grave sites, and DNA analysis, with multiple hands-on exercises to solidify understanding. The final day is dedicated to mock crime scene processing, where participants apply their learned skills in real-life scenarios, culminating in group presentations that demonstrate their analytical and forensic capabilities.

In-Person Training (limit of 40 students):
  • Dates: January 13-15, 2025
  • 8-5 everyday with 2 breaks and a lunch break 12-1:15
  • Location: UF TREOO Center, 3900 SW 63rd Blvd, Gainesville, FL

Course Highlights:

Online Modules:

  • Community-Based Response to Non-Criminal Cases
  • Understanding Probable Cause in Animal Crime Investigations
  • Utilizing Data for Effective Field Services
  • Leadership in Animal Control
  • Best Practices for Investigating Animal Crimes

In-Person Training:

(Please Bring Certificate of Completion for Online course)
  • Crime Scene Documentation: Scene Flow and Processing (including Mock Crime Scene)
  • Complaint Investigation (hands-on training with BCS Scoring and Mock Scenes)
  • 8-5 everyday with 2 breaks and a lunch break 12-1:15
Register For ACO III

Enrollment Details:

  • Exclusive Offer: NACA members have the first opportunity to enroll in this highly sought-after course. Log into NACANET.ORG for membership discount code.
  • Limited Availability: Only 40 spots are available, ensuring a focused and personalized learning environment.
  • Online Pre-requisite: You must complete the online portion of the course prior to attending the in-person training. 

Cancellation Policy:

  • Before January 1, 2025: Cancellations will be processed with a $35 cancellation fee.
  • After January 1, 2025: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this date
Register For ACO III
Questions?
Please contact the Maples Center Administrative Team
Phone: (352) 265-9940
Website to Access Course After Enrolled:

Gainsville Airport:
https://gra-gnv.com/flygainesville.com/

Gainsville Hotels near the University of Florida:

Trip Advisor – Gainsville Hotels Near University of Florida:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/HotelsNear-g34242-d2346306-University_of_Florida-Gainesville_Florida.html

Announcing NACA ACO III

Introducing the groundbreaking Animal Welfare Dispatcher Certification from NACA!

by | Mar 8, 2024 | Announcements, Training

Elevate your skills and expertise with over 5 hours of specialized training tailored specifically to the unique demands of animal welfare dispatching. Our comprehensive program is designed to empower you to provide top-notch service to your community while prioritizing officer safety.

With a focus on animal welfare protocols and best practices, this certification ensures that you’re equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to handle any situation effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned dispatcher or new to the field, this certification will enhance your capabilities and make a lasting impact.

Join us in championing the welfare of animals and the safety of responders. Enroll today and take the first step towards becoming a certified Animal Welfare Dispatcher with NACA!

Announcing NACA ACO III

Strengthening Communities: Recap

by | Feb 7, 2024 | Announcements, Blog, Training

Strengthening Communities: Recap of Our In-Person Event for Animal Control Professionals

On February 1st, 2024, a remarkable gathering took place in the heart of California’s Central Valley. The event, hosted at the City of Fresno brought together 33 dedicated animal control professionals representing 20 agencies from across the region. With a shared commitment to animal welfare and community well-being, attendees convened to explore innovative solutions and forge lasting connections. The event is the result of a vision from NACA with grant-funded support from Maddie’s Fund.

The primary focus of the event was on community-driven approaches to animal control. Throughout the day, attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions and interactive sessions aimed at identifying and addressing the unique challenges faced by their communities. From urban centers to rural areas, participants shared insights, best practices, and success stories, laying the groundwork for collaborative action.

One of the many highlights of the event was the announcement of grant recipients from California for All Animals. Five deserving agencies were selected to receive thousands of dollars in funding to support their vital work in animal control and community outreach. These grants will enable these agencies to implement innovative programs and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of both animals and people in their communities.

Beyond the tangible benefits of grant funding, the event also provided a platform for networking and relationship-building. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering new friendships and strengthening existing partnerships. These connections are invaluable in the field of animal control, where collaboration and cooperation are essential for success.

In addition to external initiatives, the event also included moments of self-reflection and personal growth for attendees. Through guided exercises and discussions, participants had the opportunity to reflect on their strengths and areas for development as animal control professionals. This process of self-assessment is crucial for maintaining resilience and effectiveness in a challenging and demanding field.

As the event drew to a close, attendees left feeling inspired, empowered, and reinvigorated in their commitment to their communities and the animals they serve. The connections made and knowledge shared during the event will continue to reverberate throughout the Central Valley, contributing to positive change and progress in the field of animal control.

Looking ahead, NACA remains committed to supporting and empowering animal control professionals across the nation. Through events like these and ongoing initiatives, we will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen our communities and create a better future for animals and people alike.

Together, we can make a difference.

 

Announcing NACA ACO III

Unlocking Success: The Power of Professional Certification

by | Jun 23, 2023 | Blog, Field Services, Training

Unlocking Success: The Power of Professional Certification 

By National Animal Care and Control Association  

Obtaining a national animal control officer certification from NACA offers several important benefits for individuals working in the field. Here are some reasons why obtaining the certification is valuable: 

Professional Recognition 

National certification in Animal Control demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and expertise in the field of animal control. It serves as an acknowledgment of your knowledge, skills, and experience, setting you apart from others in the industry. 

Enhanced Job Opportunities 

Certification can give you a competitive edge and increase your chances of landing desirable job opportunities. Many employers, including government agencies, animal shelters, and law enforcement departments, prioritize certified animal control officers when hiring.  

Legal Compliance 

Animal control officers often have the authority to enforce animal-related laws and regulations. By obtaining national certification, you demonstrate that you have the necessary training and understanding of legal requirements, ensuring you can perform your duties in a lawful and effective manner. 

Professional Development 

NACA Certification requires continuing education and training, ensuring that you stay up to date with the latest industry practices, advancements, and legal changes. This commitment to continuous learning helps you enhance your skills, stay current in your field, and provide the best possible service to the community. 

Public Trust and Confidence 

National certification instills confidence in the public you serve. It assures them that you possess the necessary knowledge and expertise to handle animal-related issues with compassion, professionalism, and adherence to ethical standards. Obtaining a NACA certification helps establish trust and credibility, fostering positive relationships between animal control officers and the communities in which they serve. 

Personal and Organizational Growth 

Possessing a NACA certification not only benefits individual animal control officers but also contributes to the overall growth of the organizations they represent. Certified officers bring valuable skills, knowledge, and best practices to their roles, promoting efficient operations and improved outcomes for both animals and the community. 

By obtaining a national animal control officer certification from NACA, you invest in your professional growth, demonstrate your expertise, and contribute to the welfare and safety of the animals and communities you serve. 

Get Started
Download ACO I Brochure
Download ACO II Brochure
Announcing NACA ACO III

Mental Health First Aid For ACO’s

by | Jun 8, 2023 | Announcements, Blog, Training

NACA BRINGS MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID (MHFA) NATIONAL CERTIFICATION TRAINING OPPORTUNITY TO ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICERS (ACOs) AND ANIMAL WELFARE PROFESSIONALS

To help equip ACOs to confidently and effectively respond when encountering human mental health challenges, the National Animal Control Association (NACA) is launching a Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) national certification course initiative.

Mental health and substance use issues remain elevated in the United States three years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 90% of U.S. adults believing that the country is facing a mental health crisisi. As first responders for animal-related concerns in our communities, Animal Control Officers (ACOs) and other animal welfare professionals routinely work in situations in which people are experiencing high levels of stress; high levels of stress are a known contributor to and exacerbator of human mental health challenges. While responding to animal-related issues, ACOs and other animal welfare professionals hence find themselves in de facto first responder role for emergent human mental health challenges.

Just as those certified in CPR enables those without clinical training to assist an individual having a heart attack, Mental Health First Aid certification prepares participants to interact with and effectively support a person experiencing a mental health crisis. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) certification training entails a groundbreaking skills-based course that gives the tools to identify, understand and respond to someone who might be struggling with a mental health or substance use challenge — and connect them with appropriate support and resources when necessary.

Through the certification training, Mental Health First Aiders learn about: basic mental health signs and symptoms; the skills need to identify, assess, and provide appropriate support during a mental health crisis; how to link people to needed resources; and the necessity of self-care as a Mental Health First Aider. A five step skills action plan is taught to enable Mental Health First Aiders to easily retain and implement the appropriate skills as needed; the action plan is called ALGEEii:

“Never has it been more important for our communities to talk about mental health and substance use,” says Chuck Ingoglia, President and CEO of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, which helped bring Mental Health First Aid to the U.S. from Australia in 2008. “This program is breaking down barriers and stigma so that together we can learn how to better support one another. Without mental health, there is no health.” Mental Health First Aid has become a full-blown movement in the United States — more than 2.5 million people — including first responders, educators, and members of the general public – are certified Mental Health First Aiders, and that number is growing every day.

The Mental Health First Aid national certification courses offered through NACA will be taught by certified Mental Health First Aid instructor Dr. Janet Hoy-Gerlach. Dr. Hoy-Gerlach is a licensed clinical social worker and human-animal interaction researcher with extensive practice experience in community-based crisis intervention work and suicide risk assessment. She is the lead author of Human-Animal Interaction: A Social Work Guide, published by the National Association of Social Work (the largest professional social work organization in the United States), and helps develop programs and policies that support the human-animal bond for mutual wellbeing through her social work consulting practice, OneHealth People-Animal Wellness Services (OHPAWs).

“I am thrilled to be able to partner with NACA to help support ACOs and animal welfare professionals in the critically important work they do for animals and people,” says Dr. Hoy-Gerlach. “Mental Health First Aid certification offers an effective tool to help address the human needs encountered in their life-saving work with animals.”

For more information or to participate in a Mental Health First Aid training through NACA, see: Mental Health First Aid Certification

Mental Health First Aid Training for ACO Professionals

by | Apr 17, 2023 | Announcements, Blog, Training

“Attention animal care and control professionals!

Do you want to gain easy-to-use evidence-based tools and increase your confidence in and ability to deal with mental health situations in your work as an animal care and control professional? Do you want to be able to better support your co-workers and volunteers when they are experiencing mental health challenges, and/or more effectively handle mental health crisis situations you encounter on your field service calls? If so, national MHFA certification is for you and NACA in Partnership with the National Council for Mental Wellbeing is forming a first of its kind to be offered strickly to animal care and control professionals!

What is Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)?

  • MHFA is a nationally recognized set of go-to key skills – called an “action plan” – used to provide effective early intervention and help to someone developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.
  • MHFA is a research-based strategy, listed on the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices.

How does one become nationally certified in MHFA?

To become a nationally certified MHFA provider, you must complete an MHFA certification course in accordance with national standards and content from the National Council for Wellbeing. The MHFA certification course offered through NACA is in full compliance with all national standards and content.

The NACA-offered MHFA certification course consists of:

  • 2 hours of virtual self-paced content.
  • 6 hours of virtual instructor*-led training via Zoom (includes a 30 min lunch and two 15 min breaks)
    (TBD)
  • 1 hour of post-Zoom self-paced content.
  • $170

Upon completion of the MHFA certification course, you will be nationally certified in MHFA!

ACOs and other animal welfare professionals from anywhere in the United States are welcome to register! You must be 18 years of age or older to attend this course.

View Upcoming MHFA Certification Courses

The instructor for the MHFA certification course through NACA is certified MHFA instructor Dr. Janet Hoy-Gerlach, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of OneHealth People-Animal Wellness Services (OHPAWS). Dr. Hoy-Gerlach has extensive experience in community-based crisis intervention and suicide/lethality risk assessment and has worked with and trained animal welfare and veterinary professionals nationally and internationally. She is the lead author of Human-Animal Interaction: A Social Work Guide, a book published by the National Association of Social Workers and serves as a subject matter expert on mental health benefits of the human-animal bond for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. Dr. Hoy-Gerlach lives in Northwest Ohio with her family, which includes three dogs and three cats.