New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Level 3) (Companion Animals)
Biology
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
An entry-level certificate providing foundational knowledge and skills in companion animal care, including health, welfare, anatomy, physiology, husbandry, and practical handling techniques, with online delivery and a mandatory 40-hour workplace practicum.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online
It will take a total of 19 weeks
This course requires 30 hours per week
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Professional skills in companion animal care
Understand and apply professional skills necessary for working with companion animals.
Animal behaviour, handling and transportation
Develop skills in low-stress handling, behaviour observation, and safe transportation of companion animals.
Anatomy, physiology and preventative health
Gain knowledge of the form, function and health maintenance of common companion animals.
What You're Signing Up For
This programme is ideal for those interested in animal care professions such as SPCA, pet shop work, or kennel and cattery care. It offers a comprehensive introduction to companion animal health, welfare, anatomy, physiology, husbandry, and low-stress handling techniques. The course includes structured online learning combined with practical work placement experience. Completing this certificate prepares students for further qualifications in animal healthcare assisting or veterinary nursing. The course consists of companion animal-focused courses and requires students to manage their own 40-hour work placement in animal-related facilities. Entry is open with some health and legal declarations required, and English language proficiency is mandated. Tuition fees apply, with options for part-time study, student loans, and potential access to Fees Free funding for eligible domestic students.
Course Content
- Introduction To Professional Skills When Working With Companion Animals (15 credits)
- Introduction To Behaviour, Handling, And Transportation For Companion Animals (15 credits)
- Introduction To Form, Function And Preventative Health For Companion Animals (15 credits)
- Introduction To Husbandry For Companion Animals (15 credits)
- Companion Animals Practicum (10 credits)
- 40-hour Work Placement at animal-related facilities
What you need to know first
Open entry
Completion of health declaration and criminal conviction declaration
English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 with no band below 5.0
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal Care
Veterinary Services
Companion Animal Services
Future employment opportunities might be
SPCA worker
Pet shop worker
Kennel and cattery animal care assistant
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