by naca-web | May 9, 2024 | Announcements
Upon completion of the MHFA certification course, you will be nationally certified in MHFA! Qualifies for 10 NACA CEU
Upcoming Live Sessions on: May 29, 2024 | June 12, 2024 | June 26, 2024
NACA-offered MHFA certification course consists of:
- 2 hours of virtual self-paced content to be completed BEFORE the Live Session.
- 6 hours of LIVE virtual instructor-led training, via Zoom (includes a 30 min lunch and two 15 min breaks)
- 1 hour of post-Zoom self-paced content to be completed for CERTIFICATION.
- $170 per student
by naca-web | Apr 29, 2024 | Announcements
The virtual May 2024 board meeting will be canceled because the board will all be in San Antonio for a strategic planning session.
![Let the celebration begin! ACO Week]()
by naca-web | Apr 15, 2024 | Announcements, Blog
Happy ACO Appreciation Week, everyone! 
Today marks the start of a week-long celebration dedicated to honoring the incredible Animal Control Officers who work tirelessly to protect and serve both the pets and people in their communities.
To all the brave and compassionate officers out there, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your dedication and commitment.
Your tireless efforts make a world of difference, and we couldn’t be prouder to stand alongside you in support of animal welfare.
by naca-web | Apr 6, 2024 | Announcements, Community Outreach
April: Advocating for Animal Welfare – How Animal Control Officers Lead the Charge
April marks a significant month in the realm of animal welfare – it’s National Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month. This observance serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to protect and care for the animals that share our world. As we delve into this month, it’s crucial to recognize the pivotal role that animal control officers and agencies play in safeguarding the well-being of our furry companions.
Animal control officers are on the front lines, tirelessly working to ensure the safety and welfare of animals within their communities. Here are some impactful actions they can take to prevent animal cruelty and promote a culture of compassion:
Connect with your community!
- Educational Outreach: One of the most effective ways to prevent animal cruelty is through education. Animal control officers can organize workshops, seminars, and school programs to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare laws, and the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect. Start a campaign for spay/neuter!
- Community Engagement: Building strong relationships with the community is essential for effective animal control. Officers can engage with residents through neighborhood meetings, social media platforms, and community events to address concerns, provide resources, and encourage reporting of suspected animal cruelty or neglect.
Collaboration is Key!
- Collaboration with Other Agencies: Collaboration between animal control agencies, law enforcement, veterinary professionals, and animal welfare organizations is key to addressing complex issues related to animal cruelty. By working together, these stakeholders can share resources, expertise, and information to better protect animals and prosecute offenders.
Help a Horse!
- April 26th is Help a Horse Day! Partner with a local horse rescue for an educational day within your community or host your own Help a Horse Day!
As we reflect on the significance of National Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month, let us commend the dedication and commitment of animal control officers who work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable members of our society. Together, let’s strive to create a world where animals are valued, respected, and cherished, not only in April but every day of the year.
![Let the celebration begin! ACO Week]()
by naca-web | 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!
![Let the celebration begin! ACO Week]()
by naca-web | 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.
