Humane Agent

The Humane Agent investigates reports of animal cruelty, neglect, abuse, abandonment, and other violations of Ohio animal welfare laws within Delaware County. The role combines field investigation, evidence collection, public education, legal support, and community collaboration while balancing enforcement with education and resource referral. The Humane Agent must exercise sound judgment, maintain objective and legally defensible documentation, protect confidential information, and remain professional in difficult or confrontational situations.

Investigate reports of cruelty, neglect, abuse, abandonment, and improper care; conduct field inspections and assess animal health, welfare, housing conditions, and legal compliance.

• Interview complainants, witnesses, owners, and other involved parties; respond to emergency animal welfare situations and coordinate with law enforcement, veterinarians, prosecutors, and partner agencies.
• Issue compliance notifications and educate owners on corrective actions when appropriate; promote voluntary compliance through education and resource referrals.
• Assist with search warrants, seizure orders, animal seizures, rescue operations, criminal complaints, case preparation, and courtroom or administrative testimony.
• Gather, preserve, and document evidence through photographs, video, veterinary records, witness statements, and other appropriate means; maintain chain of custody, complete case files, and timely investigative reports.
• Maintain working knowledge of Ohio animal cruelty laws and other laws applicable to humane investigations.
• Safely handle and transport case animals; recognize illness, injury, distress, fear, and potentially dangerous behavior; use humane handling, approved restraint techniques, and safety equipment.
• Work with HSDC Animal Care staff and community partners to support animals entering protective custody and improve outcomes for animals and people, including multidisciplinary responses involving domestic violence, elder abuse, or animal hoarding.
• Represent HSDC professionally at community events, outreach programs, and educational presentations.

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, animal science, veterinary technology, law enforcement, or a related field preferred.
• Valid Ohio driver’s license and insurable driving record; ability to obtain and maintain all required Ohio Humane Agent appointments, certifications, and training.
• Experience in animal welfare, law enforcement, investigations, animal control, veterinary medicine, or a related field preferred.
• Strong communication, interviewing, documentation, de-escalation, and problem-solving skills; ability to work independently, manage multiple investigations, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive information.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks; proficiency with Microsoft Office and case-management software; ability to complete at least 24 hours of continuing education each calendar year.

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and enter homes, farms, barns, and other investigation environments.
• Ability to safely handle and restrain animals of varying sizes, species, temperaments, and medical conditions; lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation; walk, bend, climb, kneel, and stand for extended periods.
• Comfort working around animal waste, odors, parasites, zoonotic disease, deceased animals, and other field hazards.
• Ability to work approximately 20-24 hours per week with flexibility for evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency responses; ability to work independently throughout Delaware County and, when necessary, use a personal vehicle for case response with mileage reimbursement in accordance with HSDC policy.

Compassion and commitment to animal welfare; integrity and accountability; professionalism and ethical decision-making; strong interpersonal skills; attention to detail; adaptability and resilience; teamwork; and sound judgment under pressure. The Humane Agent supports HSDC’s mission by protecting animal welfare, preventing cruelty, promoting education and compliance, and treating all members of the community with dignity, fairness, and respect.