(1) The Department of Health shall establish a voluntary certification program for animal control officers, animal shelters, and other humane society counterparts.
(2) The certification shall be based upon courses recommended by the National Animal Care and Control Association or its equivalent.
(3) Certification of animal shelters shall be based upon compliance with shelter standards published by the Humane Society of the United States.
(4) Training shall be administered by the Arkansas State Animal Control Association in cooperation with the department and utilizing qualified experts, including, but not limited to, licensed veterinarians and persons holding professional registrations or certifications in the appropriate areas of expertise.