JOB TITLE: DOG LAW ENFORCEMENT WARDEN

JOB CODE: 74520

DEFINITION: This is technical work enforcing Pennsylvania dog and rabies laws in an assigned region for the Department of Agriculture.

An employee in this job conducts investigative, inspection, and licensing work to enforce Pennsylvania laws related to dog control and rabies prevention and control. Work involves conducting dangerous dog investigations, conducting inspections of kennels and owner documentation, and investigating reported activities and incidents related to illegal kennel operations, dog bite reports, and livestock damage claims. Work includes filing charges and other related court documents for violations of applicable laws and regulations, presenting evidence, and testifying at hearings and court proceedings. Work also includes ensuring dogs are properly licensed and vaccinated; retrieving and transporting stray dogs; and conducting educational presentations to stakeholder groups and the public. Work is performed independently and reviewed by a Dog Law Warden Supervisor for completion, accuracy, and adherence to laws and regulations.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Inspects state-licensed dog kennels for proper kennel maintenance, sanitation, and animal well-being.

• Investigates non-licensed dog kennels and files court charges for illegal operation.

• Investigates and determines disposition of claims regarding damaged livestock caused by dogs and coyotes.

• Investigates dog bites and alleged dangerous dog complaints, notifies victims of quarantine results, and cites dog owners in applicable cases.

• Follows up on dangerous dog charges to ensure dogs deemed dangerous are properly registered and monitored under the dangerous dog registry.

• Conducts online and media research to aid in investigations of public complaints and unlicensed kennel reports.

• Quarantines dogs for bites involving human contact and infectious and contagious disease exposure.

• Retrieves and transports stray dogs to shelters.

• Audits stray dog disposition claims to approve or deny claim payment in accordance with state dog laws and attendant regulations.

• Participates in legal actions for dog law violations, including obtaining and executing search warrants with state and local police, filing summary and misdemeanor charges, preparing documents and witnesses for court, presenting evidence before judges, and testifying in criminal and administrative court cases.

• Maintains daily records, such as inspection reports, incidents reports, and citations.

• Inspects owner documentation to ensure compliance with dog law licensure and vaccination provisions.

• Assists in mentoring new employees being trained in field operations.

• Conducts educational presentations for kennel owners, local associations, schools, and the public.

• Operates motor vehicles to conduct investigations and inspections.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of basic animal husbandry.

• Knowledge of effective research and investigative techniques, including the use of technology and social media.

• Knowledge of the use and functionality of Microsoft Office Suite software.

• Ability to identify physical and environmental signs of dog negligence and abuse, such as physical illnesses and injuries and unsanitary kennel and shelter conditions.

• Ability to interpret and convey statutes, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures.

• Ability to apply conflict resolution techniques when interacting with dog owners, kennel owners, and the public.

• Ability to interpret and convey written materials, reports, and forms.

• Ability to operate motor vehicles.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities)

• Two years of experience in dog law enforcement, animal control, animal welfare, or animal science work;

or

• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• All positions require possession of an active motor vehicle license.