NZ Certificate in Animal Care (Companion Animals) (Level 3)
Biology
A course by
EIT
This programme equips students with hands-on skills and knowledge to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of companion animals, preparing them for entry-level employment and further study in veterinary nursing and animal care.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Hawke's Bay Campus, Hawke's Bay
It will take a total of 19 weeks


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Regulatory and Industry Compliance
Comply with all regulatory requirements and relevant industry codes of practice for animal care and welfare.

Ethical Behaviour and Interpersonal Skills
Maintain positive interpersonal relationships and ethical behaviour in the provision of animal care.

Anatomy and Physiology Knowledge
Apply knowledge of companion animal form and function to identify and respond to variations in health and behaviour.
What You're Signing Up For
Turn your passion for animals into a career with the hands-on NZ Certificate in Animal Care (Companion Animals) Level 3. This programme provides skills and knowledge for animal care ensuring health, safety, and welfare in care facilities. Students train at EIT’s specialised animal facility with practical experience. Career opportunities include roles in veterinary practices, animal welfare agencies, research groups, and grooming. The programme prepares students to comply with regulatory and welfare standards, maintain ethical behaviour, and apply knowledge of companion animal anatomy, physiology, health, and husbandry. Entry requires physical ability to perform practical tasks and good character clearance.
Course Content
- Professional skills when working with animals
- Safe handling and transportation of companion animals
- Anatomy and physiology of animals
- Care for companion animals
What you need to know first
Minimum age 16 years
Physically able to undertake practical requirements
Good character including a clear Ministry of Justice Criminal Convictions Record
English language competency

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal Care
Veterinary Nursing
Animal Welfare

Future employment opportunities might be
Animal Care Assistant in veterinary practices, animal laboratories, pet shops, kennels or catteries
Roles in animal welfare agencies such as SPCA
Employment with animal science research groups
Breeding establishments
Grooming and pet sitting


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Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details