FREE CACO Humane Capture and Handling Questions and Answers

Question 1

An ACO is using a catch pole to handle a potentially aggressive dog. To ensure the most humane and safe application of this tool, where should the loop be placed?

Accepted Answer

Around the neck and under one of the front legs.

Answer

Placing the catch pole loop over the animal's head and one front leg ('bandolier-style') prevents the loop from tightening solely on the neck, which can cause choking, tracheal damage, or other serious injuries, especially if the animal thrashes or rolls. This method distributes the pressure more safely while still allowing control of the animal's head.

Question 2

When transporting a captured animal, which of the following is a critical step to minimize stress and ensure safety?

Accepted Answer

Covering the transport container to create a dark, quiet environment.

Answer

Covering a transport container, such as a carrier or trap, reduces visual stimuli and creates a dark, quiet space. This helps to calm the animal, lower its stress level, and reduce the likelihood of it injuring itself by thrashing around during transport.

Question 3

An ACO encounters a dog exhibiting the following behaviors: yawning when not tired, frequent lip licking, and showing the whites of its eyes ('whale eye'). These are most likely indicators of:

Accepted Answer

Stress and anxiety

Answer

Yawning (out of context), lip licking, and 'whale eye' are all recognized as subtle canine stress signals or calming signals. Dogs display these behaviors when they are feeling anxious, uncertain, or uncomfortable in a situation. Recognizing these early signs allows an officer to adjust their approach to be less threatening.

Question 4

Which of the following pieces of equipment is specifically designed to safely move a fractious or feral cat to the back of a trap for sedation without direct handling?

Accepted Answer

A trap divider or isolator

Answer

A trap divider, also known as an isolator, is a tool that looks like a large comb or fork. It is inserted through the bars of a trap to gently but firmly push a feral or fractious cat into a smaller portion of the trap, allowing for a safe injection for sedation without having to handle the cat directly.

Question 5

An ACO has successfully captured a wild animal in a live trap and is preparing it for transport. Which of the following actions is NOT a recommended practice for humane handling?

Accepted Answer

Providing a small amount of food and water in the trap for the journey.

Answer

It is generally not recommended to provide food or water to a wild animal immediately after capture and during short transport. A stressed or injured animal may not eat or could aspirate on water. The primary focus should be on getting the animal to a secure, appropriate facility quickly and with minimal stress.

CACO - Certified Animal Control Officer Practice Test

CACO - Certified Animal Control Officer Practice Test

FREE CACO Humane Capture and Handling Questions and Answers