THLN Files Animal Control Officer Designation Upgrade Bill For Texas

SPRING 2025: How To Help Animals In the State of Texas... Reach Out To Your State Representative About HB3049!

‍

NOTE: The link to find your district and representative is near the end of this article (scroll down)!

‍

The Texas Humane Legislation Network has successfully filed Bill HB3049, for Texas Legislature consideration, to designate Animal Control Officers in the State of Texas as First Responders.

‍

Often the first on an emergency scene when animals are present, Texas Animal Control Officers (ACOs) face the same emergency situations as officers we commonly associate with emergency response such as police, fire, and EMT department staff. Also, please note that 911 operators and tow truck drivers are classified as first responders in Texas. ACOs certainly deserve their place in the first responder ranks!

‍

ACOs bravely head into dangerous, trepidatious, and unknown situations to help and/or remove animals from a scene - many times before additional emergency response teams will enter (such as removing a dog from a space where a human needs life-saving medical care).

‍

Why Do ACOs Need A Designation of First Responder?

‍

A First Responder designation for Animal Control Officers will mean more respect for and value of this position, higher wages, and expansion of this vital role for human and animal safety in our communities.

‍

No strangers to specialized training - Texas Animal Control Officers deserve a First Responder designation for recognition of their rapid actions, public-safety responsibilities, and emergency preparedness.

‍

While we seek refuge in our homes during weather emergencies, natural disasters, and other catastrophic events - ACOs are out in the community providing emergency response.

‍

Handling common issues such as loose pets, aggressive dogs, or hoarded cats - Animal Control Officers also respond to wildlife issues, rabies situations, and exotic animal incidences (think a boa constrictor in a park, cock fighting, or an owned tiger on the loose).

‍

ACOs seek justice for abuse, bring animals in need to safety, write lengthy reports, face abusers in court, protect people from dangerous animals and animals from dangerous people.

‍

They educate the public and teach people how to care for their animals better.

‍

Texas needs Animal Control Officers to get the credit and clout they deserve and earn, every day!

‍

Want to Help Animals in The State of Texas?

‍

Please reach out to your Texas State Representative in support of Texas House Bill HB3049.

‍

"I am your constituent in District XYZ and wholeheartedly support HB3049, the "Animal Control Officers Defined as First Responders" bill. I hope I can count on your support of this bill as well."

‍

How To Find Your Texas State District and House Representative: Who Represents Me?