New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Companion Animals) (Level 3)

Farming

Gain entry-level skills in companion animal care, preparing for roles such as animal care attendant, pet shop assistant, or kennel/cattery carer. Includes blended learning and practicum.

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Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 3 Certification (70 Credits)

Study Level

Entry

1
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10

Blended study

This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions

Unknown, Unknown

It will take a total of 1 year

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Assist with care of companion animals

Demonstrate ability to assist with the daily care, health, welfare, and husbandry of companion animals such as cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, and birds in a variety of settings.

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Apply professional and ethical responsibility

Understand and apply principles of professional conduct, health, and safety when working with animals and colleagues.

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Communicate effectively in animal care setting

Develop interpersonal skills for workplace communication and animal interaction.

What You're Signing Up For

This certificate programme equips students with knowledge and practical skills in caring for companion animals, including cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, and birds. It offers a foundation for animal care careers in pet stores, animal rescue centres, grooming, kennels, and catteries. Learning is delivered through both face-to-face and online sessions, with a requirement for two campus days per week and at least 40 hours of practicum experience. Graduates are ready to assist in various companion animal environments under limited supervision.

Course Content

  • Introduction to Professional Skills when working with companion animals
  • Behaviour, handling, and transportation for companion animals
  • Introduction to form, function, and preventative health for companion animals
  • Introduction to Husbandry for companion animals
  • Companion Animals Practicum
  • At least 40 hours of practicum in relevant animal care setting

What you need to know first

Open Entry, at discretion of delegated authority to confirm ability to complete

Health and criminal declaration form required

International applicants: IELTS score of 5.0 (no band lower than 5) or equivalent

Fitness to practice declaration required

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Animal Care

  • Pet Industry

  • Veterinary Services

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Animal care attendant

  • Kennel/cattery assistant

  • Pet shop assistant

  • Pet grooming assistant

  • Animal rescue centre worker