Four Days, A New Format, A Stronger Impact
This in-person session brought together a full class of twenty-five animal control professionals, many of whom have been working in the field for years. Their experience, combined with a willingness to engage in thoughtful discussion and skill-building, set the tone for what in-person ACO I training looks like today.
- The first three days focused on NACA’s updated ACO I curriculum, emphasizing:
- Professionalism, ethics, and accountability
- Community engagement and communication
- Investigations, documentation, and decision-making
- Animal behavior and humane handling fundamentals
These days were intentionally rigorous and interactive, designed not just to teach concepts but to build confidence, critical thinking, and consistency across the field.
The fourth day was dedicated to Oklahoma-specific training, integrating state laws, regulations, and enforcement considerations so participants could directly apply national standards within their local legal framework.
- Designed for Today’s Officers
- Our updated approach blends:
- National best practices with state-specific application
- Facilitated discussion and peer learning
- Real-world scenarios grounded in modern animal control challenges
The result is a training experience that respects where the profession has been, while intentionally preparing officers for where it is going.
Expanding Access Through Partnership
Thanks to the generous support of Maddie’s Fund, NACA can bring this modernized, in-person training directly to agencies and regions, reducing travel barriers and expanding access to high-quality education. Because of this support, we look forward to more in 2026!
Interested in Hosting an In-Person ACO I Training?
Agencies, state associations, and organizations interested in hosting a future in-person NACA ACO I training are encouraged to get involved. These sessions are intentionally designed to look different, combining updated curriculum, interactive learning, and peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities.
ACO I Host Interest Form
Please complete our ACO I Host Interest Form to start the conversation. NACA In-Person Training – National Animal Care & Control Association.
Congratulations to our Oklahoma cohort for leading the way into this next chapter of in-person NACA training. Your commitment to growth, professionalism, and continuous improvement is helping shape the future of animal care and control.
We are proud to celebrate an important milestone for the National Animal Care & Control Association with the return of in-person NACA ACO Level 1 training, reimagined for today’s animal care and control profession.
After many years without in-person ACO I offerings, NACA brought this foundational certification back to the classroom in Norman, Oklahoma, with a refreshed approach that reflects the realities, expectations, and challenges officers face today. This four-day training marked the first in-person ACO I under this modernized model.
