Law Enforcement Training
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Michigan Humane Law Enforcement Training
As companion animals become a more integral part of American culture, laws are evolving to better protect them. Law enforcement officers are on the front lines, and their interactions with animals have a significant impact on how animal protection laws are enforced. With more animals in communities, officers increasingly encounter animal-related situations
Michigan Humane’s Animals in the Field: Law Enforcement Training program helps officers respond effectively, understand animal behavior, and navigate the legal issues related to animal welfare.
🔗 More information on animal control officer (ACO) training in Michigan: MDARD
Course Overview
Michigan Humane has developed a one-day training program for law enforcement officers, academy trainees, and other first responders. Key topics include:
Animal Behavior & Handling in the Field – Understanding animals in real-life encounters
Bloodsport Awareness – Recognizing dogfighting and other illegal activities
Michigan Animal Law – How state laws apply to animals
Animals as Evidence – Proper handling of animals in investigations
Human Violence & Animal Cruelty – Understanding links between animal abuse and other crimes
Summary: Training is MCOLES-approved and can be delivered as a full day or “a la carte”, tailored to a department’s needs.
Meet Our Instructors
Michigan Humane instructors have extensive field and legal experience:
Dr. Shirene Cece, DVM
Director of Shelter Medicine
With Michigan Humane since 1984
Expert witness in cruelty and dogfighting cases
Lecturer for law enforcement and veterinary audiences
Special training in euthanasia and veterinary forensic science
Ann Griffin, Esq.
Director of Advocacy and Law Enforcement Training Administrator
Licensed attorney with 16+ years of experience
Chair of the State Bar of Michigan Animal Law Section Council
Focuses on legislative advocacy and law enforcement education
Matthew Pepper
CEO of Michigan Humane since 2014
15+ years of experience in animal welfare management
Studied with NACA, FEMA Emergency Management Institute, and Code 3 Associates
Holds a B.S. in Wildlife Biology
Summary: Instructors combine practical field experience, legal expertise, and veterinary knowledge to provide officers with the skills needed to protect animals effectively.
Schedule a Training
If your department or academy would like to schedule training:
Contact: Ann Griffin
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (248) 283-5651
Summary: Michigan Humane provides law enforcement training to ensure officers are prepared, knowledgeable, and confident when handling animal-related cases in the field.