News

The shelter  can be a busy, loud place for a dog.  This can be especially true for dogs who have been rescued from living in a backyard on a chain.   These dogs have often lived in virtual isolation their entire lives.  They then come to the Shelter and can be overwhelmed by new sites, sounds, smells and other stimuli.   It is important that these dogs have a place where they can go where it is quiet and they can get used to the feeling of being inside a home.  Friends of Oakland Animal Services recently purchased a trailer that BAD RAP had brought to the Shelter for this purpose.  FOAS has made it possible for us to continue to make this space available for volunteers to have quiet time with Shelter dogs.  Thank you to all of the volunteers who helped clean and decorate this space!  

http://oaklandanimalservices.org/2009/10/woman-charged-with-two-counts-of-felony-15-cats-injured/

To keep our dogs happy, we give them kongs each day. The kongs are filled with a mixture of dry and wet food, then frozen. The dogs love them, and it keeps their minds active as they try to extract the delicious frozen contents.

We have a lot of dogs at the Shelter – usually over 150 a day who would like one!  If you’d like to help out with the program, consider donating a kong or maybe even more to the Shelter.  The dogs prefer the biggest/toughest ones!   Thank you for helping!

Oakland Animal Services was called out to 73rd and International Ave today to help a dog in distress.  When Animal Control Officers arrived, they found a dog, now named “Ravine”,  trapped on the side of the canal.  Ravine appeared to have been there for a long time.  She was shivering in the cold and was trying to hold onto the side to avoid falling into the frigid water below. 

She was not only cold but tired!  She would nod off frequently and then shake herself awake.  Its impossible to know how long she had been sitting there trying not to fall in.  Animal Control Officers knew they had to act quickly.  They called Oakland Fire Department to help with their rescue equipment.

As soon as Ravine saw the ladder lowered down she became frightened and gathered enough strength to climb off of her perch and down closer to the water. 

Exhausted…Ravine allowed herself to be rescued.

 Ravine has now been examined by Oakland Animal Services veterinarian and is doing well.  We warmed her up, fed her and she’s now resting comfortably after her adventure.

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER SUPERVISOR

The City of Oakland is currently recruiting to fill one Animal Control Supervisor vacancy in the Police Department of Animal Services Division. Under supervision of the Animal Services Director, the incumbent will plans, directs and evaluates the activities of the Oakland Animal Shelter in accordance with State and local codes, laws and ordinances; and develop and implement educational programs on responsible animal care and ownership.

Typical duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Plan, direct and evaluate activities of the Oakland Animal Shelter including licensing, impounding, keeping, adopting and treating animals in a humane manner

• Enforce state and local animal control and care laws and ordinances

• Develop and teach educational programs for the public regarding proper animal care and animal control

• Interface with other agencies regarding animal control issues

• Oversee and participate in the operation of clinics for injections and the evaluation and treatment of injuries

• Maintain fiscal control of incoming revenue

• Promote and enforce safe work practices

• Assist in the preparation of the section budget

• Monitor a section budget

• Prepare reports of a complex or technical nature

• Maintain records regarding animal control

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICATION

Any combination of education and experience that is equivalent to the following minimum qualifications is acceptable.Education:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

Experience:

Three (3) years of progressively responsible work experience comparable to an Animal Control Officer in the City of Oakland. ANIMAL CONTROL SUPERVISOR 2

License:

Successful incumbents in this position are expected to operate automotive vehicles in the performance of assigned duties. Due to the nature of the assignment and the hours worked, public transportation may not be a cost effective or efficient method for traveling to the various locations required. Individuals who are appointed to this position will be required to maintain a valid California Driver’s License throughout the tenure of employment.

Other Requirements:

Must be twenty-one (21) years of age or older.

Additional Qualifications:

Bilingual skills in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin and Vietnamese are desirable.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

physical and behavioral characteristics of common breeds of dogs and cats; methods and practices involved in animal control and care; state and local codes and regulations regarding animal control and care; principles and practices of management, supervision and training; safety principles, practices and procedures; procedures of animal euthanasia; public speaking principles and practices; public contact and community relations; budget preparation and control; and basic bookkeeping/accounting.

Ability to:

plan, direct and evaluate an animal control program; promote and enforce safe work practices; interpret state and local codes and regulations pertaining to animal control and care; handle stressful or sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy; communicate effectively in both oral and written form; prepare and maintain fiscal records including revenue control; monitor a section budget; prepare and analyze reports of a general or technical nature; and establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

Stage I:

The first stage in the selection process will consist of a review of each applicant employment application, signed supplemental questionnaire and a signed Declaration of Intent to Reside Within the Residency Zone form for minimum qualifications (weighted pass/fail). Applications submitted without all required materials will not be given further consideration. The second stage will consist of subject matter experts evaluating and rating the completed supplemental questionnaires. Applicant responses to the supplemental questions must demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities listed in the qualifications section of this announcement. The evaluation of supplemental questions may be weighted 100% of an applicant score (before residency and/or veteran points) and may determine rank on the eligible list. If a sufficient number of quality application packets are received, the supplemental screening may be followed by a third stage and the most qualified applicants will be invited to the next stage. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee advancement to Stage III.

Stage III:

The ranked eligible list may be developed directly from the supplemental screening

The City of Oakland reserves the right to modify the selection process as necessary to conform to administrative or business necessity.

The third stage may consist of an oral examination that may be preceded by a brief written exercise (weighted 100%) and that will test the knowledge, skills and abilities listed in the qualifications section. OR the results of Stage III. Candidates must earn a scale score of 70 in this examination process to be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration. ANIMAL CONTROL SUPERVISOR 3

ADVISORIES

Immigration and Reform Control Act:

In compliance with the Immigration and Reform Control Act of 1986 the City of Oakland will only hire individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States.

Legal:

In compliance with local, state and federal laws and regulations, the City of Oakland will employ and promote qualified individuals without regard to disability. The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must do so no later than five working days after the final filing date for receipt of applications, otherwise it may not be possible to arrange accommodations for the selection process. Such requests should be addressed to P.Ha, Office of Personnel, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2^{nd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612-2019 or call (510) 238-3112 or TDD (510) 238-6930.}

Background Checks and Drug Testing:

The City of Oakland is a drug-free workplace. Job offers for certain positions may also be contingent upon passing a drug test.

The City may conduct a criminal background check, credit check, and/or qualifications check for applicants depending on the position sought. Final applicants will be required to sign an informed consent authorization form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history, credit report, and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent authorization form will not be considered further for the position.

HOW TO APPLY

City of Oakland application documents may be obtained in person or by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope and request to the Office of Personnel, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612-2019. You may also call (510) 238-3112 for information.

You may access a copy of the City’s announcement and a Microsoft Word or PDF version of the employment application at the following Internet address: www.oaklandnet.com. Click on City Jobs to view current openings or access the employment application.

Stage II:

•

• Must meet California Peace Officer Standards and Training based on California Penal Code 832 within the probationary period.

• Must pass a thorough background investigation.

The eligibility list established from this examination may be used to fill other vacancies that may occur and permanent full-time and permanent part-time positions in this classification.

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

The City of Oakland is currently recruiting to fill one vacancy for the position of Veterinary Technician in the Animal Services Division of the Oakland Police Department. Under general supervision from the Director of Animal Services, the incumbent will assists in providing paraprofessional medical care and treatment to all impounded animals housed at the shelter animals; monitors the general health of the animal population; administers emergency first aid treatment; assists with surgery and follow-up care to animals in need; and performs related duties as assigned. Incumbents in this classification receive direct supervision from the Veterinarian.

Typical duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Monitors the health of all animals; follows up on health observations reported by staff and volunteers, advises the Veterinarian regarding animals that need further medical care

• Ensures that all shelter animals are medicated following the strict instructions

• Maintains inventory of all medications, vaccines, medical supplies; reorder supplies as necessary

• Assists with and performs euthanasia of animals

• Ensures all animals in adoption are properly vaccinated and receives their pre-adoption examination

• Assists Veterinarian with surgery and prepares autoclave and surgery packs

• Follows-up on all animals sent for emergency medical treatment

• Ensures surgery, vet and grooming rooms are clean and organized

• Assists in the identification of possible disease outbreaks and works with the veterinarian and other staff to take appropriate preventive action

• Coordinates all veterinary care of foster animals

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICATION

Any combination of experience and education that is equivalent to the following minimum requirements is acceptable:

Education:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

Experience:

Two (2) years experience working in an animal shelter, clinic or kennel under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian

Certificate:

Current registered Veterinary Technician license through the state is desirable.

License:

Successful incumbents in this position are expected to operate automotive vehicles in the performance of assigned duties. Due to the nature of the assignment and the hours worked, public transportation may not be a cost effective or efficient method for traveling to the various locations required. Individuals who are appointed to this position will be required to maintain a valid California Driver’s License throughout the tenure of employment OR demonstrate the ability to travel to various locations in a timely manner as required in the performance of duties.

Other Requirements:

Must be twenty-one (21) years of age or older; must complete a Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) and pass a job related background investigation; may be required to participate in criminal prosecution which may include testifying in court; must successfully complete an eight hour course in euthanasia within one year of employment; and incumbents in this classification will be required to receive all appropriate inoculations and vaccinations..

Additional Qualifications:

Bilingual skills in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin and Vietnamese are desirable.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

veterinary medicine and disease; medical treatment for a wide range of animals including domestic, livestock, wildlife and under aged animals; and safe work practices.

Ability to:

care for domestic and wild animals; physically handle and examine a wide range of animals including aggressive, wild and under aged animal; learn laws and ordinances pertaining to animal care; follow oral and written instructions; communicate effectively orally and in writing; communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds; train staff and citizens on the proper care of animal; work in an environment with exposure to infectious animal diseases, animal waste, animal bite, aggressive animals, allergens and various industrial cleaning and disinfecting chemical; assist with the euthanasia of animals; to work nights, weekends, holidays and on-call schedules; and lift over 50 pounds.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

Stage I:

The first stage in the selection process will consist of a review of each applicant employment application, and signed supplemental questionnaire for minimum qualifications (weighted pass/fail).

Stage III:

The ranked eligible list may be developed directly from the supplemental screening

The City of Oakland reserves the right to modify the selection process as necessary to conform to administrative or business necessity.

The third stage may consist of an oral examination and/or performance test that may be preceded by a brief written exercise (weighted 100%) and that will test the knowledge, skills and abilities listed in the qualifications section.

ADVISORIES

Immigration and Reform Control Act:

In compliance with the Immigration and Reform Control Act of 1986 the City of Oakland will only hire individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States.

Legal:

In compliance with local, state and federal laws and regulations, the City of Oakland will employ and promote qualified individuals without regard to disability. The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations in the examination process and in the work environment. Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations in the examination process must do so no later than five working days after the final filing date for receipt of applications, otherwise it may not be possible to arrange accommodations for the selection process. Such requests should be addressed to

The City of Oakland is a drug-free workplace. Job offers for certain positions may also be contingent upon passing a drug test.

The City may conduct a criminal background check, credit check, and/or qualifications check for applicants depending on the position sought. Final applicants will be required to sign an informed consent authorization form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history, credit report, and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent authorization form will not be considered further for the position.

HOW TO APPLY

City of Oakland application documents may be obtained in person or by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope and request to the Office of Personnel, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612-2019. You may also call (510) 238-3112 for information.

You may access a copy of the City’s announcement and a Microsoft Word or PDF version of the employment application at the following Internet address: www.oaklandnet.com. Click on City Jobs to view current openings or access the employment application.

ABC Nightline News Segment – “Home Sweet Home”

On January 7, 2010, OAS flew 34 little dogs to Dumb Friend’s League in Denver Colorado. This flight has was made possible by the Friends of Oakland Animal Services and local pilots.  To donate to “FOAS’ Transportation Fund” to help transport more dogs to other Shelters, click here.

VIDEO OF OAS DOGS FLYING TO DENVER!

The number of stray, abandoned and surrendered chihuahuas and small dogs coming to OAS has been steadily increasing over the last few years.   The percentage of dogs that were chihuahuas before 2000 was about 1.0%, chihuahuas now make up over 15% of the dogs that need Shelter at OAS!  Over 30% of our dogs are now small dogs! 

OAS can shelter approximately 75 small dogs at a time.  However, these spots fill up quickly – making it essential that OAS finds places for these little dogs to make room for the many more that will be coming in each day.  Chihuahuas, especially brown and tan chihuahuas, can sit in adoption for months waiting for a home.  This is not only difficult for the chihuahuas to live in a Shelter  for such a long time but they are also filling up a spot for the homeless chihuahuas that come into the Shelter each day. 

To address this problem, OAS has began working with animal shelters outside the state to help find adopters for these dogs.   These states do not have the influx of chihuahuas that we have seen and can quickly adopt them.  This makes room for more little ones at OAS and fills the need for chihuahuas in these states with spayed/neutered dogs in need rather than having people go to breeders for these dogs.

In the last few months, OAS has sent more than 140 dogs out of California, including to Shelters in Washington, Oregon, Arizona and now Colorado.  

Donate to FOAS’ Transportation Fund.

List of Chihuahuas for adoption in animal shelters in Northern CA .