Chapter 829 of the Texas Health and Safety Code mandates that 30 hours of required continuing education (CE) training for Animal Control Officers (ACOs) approved by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) be completed every 3 years. Of these, DSHS policy has been that a maximum of 10 hours per 3-year period can be obtained via satisfactory completion of DSHS-approved online training.  However, due to the number of course cancellations and the limitations on travel created by the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a temporary exception to this limit has been implemented.  For ACOs whose 3-year period ends between March 15, 2020, and March 15, 2021 (inclusive), up to 30 of the required CE hours can be earned via satisfactory completion of DSHS-approved online training.  Please note that certificates of completion from online sponsors may still include the statement about the 10-hour limit; that does not mean that this temporary exception does not apply.  
Reminder:  currently there is still a requirement in Chapter 829 that the 30 hours of CE be completed within the 3-year period following the completion date of the ACO Basic Training course. However, in light of recent COVID-related events, there is a possibility that the requirement may be waived. We will update you if there is any change.  

Please be advised that the outbreak of COVID-19 has resulted in cancellation of many Animal Control Officer Basic Training and continuing education courses.  Contact the course sponsor to determine if a course you plan to attend will still be conducted.

Pamela J. Wilson, DrCH, MEd, LVT, MCHES
Zoonosis Control Branch; MC 1956
P.O. Box 149347
Austin, TX   78714-9347