Wellesley’s Animal Control Officer Jenny Smith recently completed the Commonwealth of Massachusetts 35th Animal Control Officer Certification Course. This 96-hour course was held at the Municipal Police Training Academy in Boylston, Massachusetts from September 1st through October 13th. The certification course covered a wide array of animal related topics such as techniques to capture dogs, cats and wildlife, animal bite prevention, pets in disaster preparedness, investigating animal cruelty and complaints of animal hoarding.
ACO Smith came on board with the Town of Wellesley earlier this year as the Animal Control Officer following the retirement of Sue Webb. ACO Smith was initially trained by Sue Webb, who still remains a valuable resource and reference for animal control matters in Wellesley, even in retirement.
ACO Smith along with the 28 other Animal Control Officers from across the Commonwealth that attended the certification course were recognized at the Animal Control Officers Association of Massachusetts Annual Meeting, Banquet and Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 29th.
ACO Smith has rescued a multitude of animals, ranging from raccoons to baby ducks, in her short time with Wellesley. ACO Smith is also frequently spotted at the Hardy School, where she assists with the school crossing duties.