Animal Health & Welfare, Health and Safety
This course is designed for dog owners, animal care professionals, veterinary support staff, dog walkers, groomers, trainers, boarding kennel staff, rescue organisations and anyone responsible for the care and welfare of dogs who may be required to respond to a canine medical emergency.
Learners will develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to recognise common medical emergencies, undertake an effective assessment of an injured or unwell dog, and provide immediate first aid until appropriate veterinary treatment can be obtained. The programme combines underpinning theory with practical, scenario-based learning to develop safe, effective and proportionate emergency response skills that place animal welfare at the centre of decision making.
The course develops competence in recognising life-threatening conditions, carrying out primary and secondary assessments, maintaining a safe environment for both handler and animal, performing canine cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), managing choking, controlling haemorrhage, responding to common injuries and illnesses, and safely handling, restraining and transporting dogs where appropriate. Learners will also understand the importance of recognising the limits of first aid, maintaining accurate records and ensuring continuity of care through prompt referral to a veterinary surgeon.
Successful completion of this course supports safer working practices across the canine sector by improving emergency preparedness, reducing the risk of avoidable deterioration in an animal's condition and promoting appropriate decision making during emergency situations. The course emphasises that canine first aid is intended to preserve life, prevent further injury and support recovery until professional veterinary treatment is available, and does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment.
Delivery and assessment should reflect current industry best practice and relevant legislation, including: -
1. Animal Welfare Act 2006
2. Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966,
3. Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013
4. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
5. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
6. Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended)
7. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (as amended)
8. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013
9. Other relevant animal health, welfare and workplace safety requirements.
National Occupational Standards (NOS) may include, but are not limited to, occupational functions relating to maintaining animal health and welfare, recognising signs of illness or injury, handling and restraining animals safely, responding to emergencies, maintaining biosecurity, communicating effectively with veterinary professionals and owners, and applying safe working practices within animal care environments.
Select a county from the drop down box to find your nearest UKRS accredited training provider delivering this course.
