The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) invites those seeking appointment as humane officers and certified law officers seeking training in handling animal welfare complaints to join DATCP for the 2025 Humane Officer Training Program. Registration is now open for Annual Humane Officer Training, scheduled for September 22-26, 2025 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Madison.
This intensive 40-hour course, hosted in partnership with the University of Missouri-Extension Law Enforcement Training Institute, provides humane officers with the knowledge and skills they need to investigate animal abuse, enforce animal welfare laws, and support public health initiatives.
Course participants will learn:
- Laws and legal authority
- Search and seizure procedures
- Investigating animal crimes
- Recognizing animal abuse and neglect
- The link between domestic violence and animal abuse
- Evidence collection and forensic documentation
Led by experienced veterinarians, attorneys, and law enforcement professionals, the training is mandatory for all humane officers in Wisconsin within their first year of appointment.
