Animal Care

Course details

This course is designed for those who wish to pursue a career working with animals. The course covers a range of subjects which will encourage the student to develop the knowledge and skills to competently handle a range of small animals in a work environment.

Award

Successful completion of this course will result in a FETAC/QQI Level 5 Certificate in Animal Care, 5M2768.

Modules

• Animal Anatomy and Physiology
• Animal Welfare
• Communications
• Work Experience
• Animal Behaviour
• Small Animal Husbandry and Housing
• Veterinary Assisting Skills
• Biology

Animal Anatomy & Physiology

This programme module aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to enable them to develop an understanding of the structures and functions of the animal body and therefore provide optimum care for a variety of species.

Animal Welfare

This programme module aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to develop an understanding of the process of domestication of animals and the provisions needed to promote physical and mental wellbeing in domestic and captive animals.

Communications

Students will learn a variety of communication skills including oral presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint, discussion & negotiation skills, internet & e-mail skills as well as structured report writing, document preparation and non-verbal communication techniques.

Work Experience

Students will be trained in CV preparation and interview skills, and will be required to research employment legislation as part of their assessments. They will also be required to undertake a career investigation in their vocational award area. Students are also required to complete a work placement in a veterinary practice or pet shop where they will gain valuable experience in animal care.

Animal Behaviour

This programme module aims to provide the learner with the knowledge, skills and competence to understand the behavioural strategies of a variety of domestic and wild animal species and to care for and handle domestic and pet animals appropriately.

Small Animal Husbandry and Housing

This programme module aims to provide the learner with the knowledge, skills and competences required to care for a variety of pet animals in both domestic and commercial set ups including the provision of food, provision specialised housing, an understanding of behaviour strategies and the requirements for breeding.

Veterinary Assisting Skills

This programme module aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to care and manage a variety of animals under supervision in a veterinary care environment, understanding the use of preventative medical care and management in a variety of domestic and commercial animal care contexts.

Biology

This programme module aims to provide the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to independently apply concepts and principals of biology in a laboratory and in the field in a managed environment.

Entry Requirements

A Leaving Certificate or equivalent is required, although exceptions are given to mature students who are over 23 years of age. Acceptance to the course is also based on an interview which takes place a few weeks after applications have been submitted.

Careers and Further Progression

There are a range of opportunities in the areas of Veterinary Clinics, Catteries, Dog Kennels, Animal Sanctuaries, Self-Employment, Dog Grooming, Education and work in Petshops. Candidates may also be eligible to progress to higher education courses both in Ireland through the Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS).