About Animal Control Officers: Welcome to the Jungle

On this episode, Stacy and David speak with Ray Connors, Retired Chief, State of Connecticut Animal Control Unit about what Animal Control Officers actually do, how they are genuinely first responders, some looks behind the scenes at real cases of animal abuse, animal attacks, traumatic calls, and the incredible connection between animal abuse and serial killers.

Ray explains how he got into this specialized profession, what his background was, and what got him interested in animal control. We learn what an Animal Control Officer does, and what some hurdles of the profession are. We find out what kind of initial and ongoing training animal control officers receive.

Ray explains what the public does not understand about the following: abuse of animals, animal attacks on humans, human hoarding / inhumane living conditions.

Other topics we cover:

—How common is animal abuse? What are some warning signs?

—Behind the scenes details no one really appreciates.

—How are Animal Control Officers first responders?  

—Why is Animal Control not necessarily considered a part of Public Safety (First Responders)?

—Why do people hurt animals in the first place?

—Is there a link between child, domestic, and animal abuse?

—Is there a link with serial killers and inmates torturing animals?

Ray had a 34-Year Career with the CT Dept of Agriculture State Animal Control Unit

He's the Former President - New England Federation of Humane Societies

He's also Former President - CT Municipal Animal Control Association

And he's Former Board Member, National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergency Programs

Ray was a Certified Instructor, Connecticut Police Academy 1988-2018

Ray was Co-founder and Instructor of the Connecticut Animal Control Officers Academy

He is a Former Member of Connecticut Hoarding Response Working Group

Ray is featured in the documentary film "His Name Is Midnight", a story about a horse left for dead that was rescued by his Department. The horse was adopted by a documentary filmmaker, rehabilitated and led a quality life. Film is available on Tubi and Amazon Prime videos.