Animal Care College - Prospectus
Caring for people caring for animals through quality education since 1980
Animal Care College Index House, Ascot. SL5 7ET 01344 636436 www.animalcarecollege.co.uk info@animalcarecollege.co.uk
Preferred Education Provider Page 1
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Commendations from just three of our many hundreds of successful students
During my Career as a Police Dog Handler I always wanted to improve my knowledge and look at other methods of training. I discovered the courses run by the Animal Care College and began studying, I was very impressed with the professionalism, friendliness and the quality of their material and the expertise and good humour of their tutors especially my first tutor John Fisher who gave me knowledge and confidence and helped provide a foundation upon which I could build a successful career.' Mic Martin Canine Behaviour Counsellor, dog trainer and television personality www.micmartin.co.uk
Having just completed the Advanced Canine Psychology course I must tell you how much I enjoyed both the Advanced and Intermediate Canine Psychology courses. The Diploma has given me confidence and has enhanced my knowledge of canine behaviour. I have worked in animal rescue for many years and I know the knowledge I have gained by undertaking these courses will enable me to assist dogs and owners in rehoming. I would certainly recommend the College knowing that the tutors can be relied upon for speedy and informative feedback. I will always be grateful to you all. Gwen Palmer Animal Rescue Coordinator
This qualification has given me the confidence to extend the range of support that I can offer. Even after ten years experience of voluntary counselling for human loss I found the Diploma in Animal Bereavement Counselling richly rewarding. I am greatly indebted to my tutor for her wonderful support and I can see myself enrolling for further courses with the Animal Care College. Debby Wakeham
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Tutorial Team David Cavill FRSA - Principal/Tutor Heather Briggs MRCVS - Veterinary Advisor/Tutor
Joanne Angus Shelley Aspden Lelly Bond David Cavill Sara John Heather Lee Sharon Johnson Martina Ramage Lesley Rigby Serena Robinson Rachel Wakeman Ruth Bolton (nee Yates) (CVs of our tutors are available on our website at www.animalcarecollege.co.uk Registrar - Christine Fielder Accounts Manager - Sue Venables
KEY
Course accredited through LASER, additional fee payable (see Page 10)
) students Where courses are marked with an asterisk ( should consider taking the short course on Health, Safety, Legal and Associated Issues. A 10% Discount available on the Health and Safety course when taken together with one of these courses.
*
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Our commitment to you The College is dedicated to the highest quality of provision for every student regardless of gender, race, religion or disability and every effort is made to ensure that those who are in any way disabled are given every opportunity to fulfil their potential.
The Animal Care College will: 1.
Ensure that any information given about the choice of a career, the prospects in a particular career or a prospective student's studies shall be accurate to the best of our knowledge, and that any advice given to prospective students and others shall be given in good faith and the best interests of the persons to whom the advice is tendered.
2.
Take every reasonable care to enrol students only for courses that are suited to their individual needs and educational status, or for tuition for examinations for which the students are likely to be eligible.
3.
Inform students in our prospectuses and/or enrolment application forms of the conditions on which they are enrolled and to include in advertisements only statements which accurately reflect such conditions.
4.
Make fair regulations governing our relationship with students, and to treat equitably those who, through circumstances beyond our control, are unable to comply strictly with our regulations.
5.
Provide efficient tutorial service, to maintain adequate and appropriately qualified tutorial and administrative staff and to issue to our students without undue delay adequate and reasonably up to date tutorial literature and instruction suitable to each student's needs.
6.
Encourage students to complete their courses of study and to do everything reasonably possible to enable the students to derive full benefit from them.
7.
Issue only certificates or diplomas that fairly represent the instruction given and not to make any statement or to imply that any such certificates or diplomas are equivalent to a degree or to a certificate awarded by a recognised examining body.
8.
Ensure those courses capable of being formally accredited by an external body will be so accredited.(The awarding body of the College is currently LASER Learning Awards)
9.
Maintain the highest ethical standards in our publicity by making no statement in any advertisement, prospectus or publicity literature, or by correspondence or orally, that is knowingly untrue or wilfully misleading; and in particular by publishing no examination results or statistics or particulars of our tutorial service or staff that are knowingly inaccurate or misleading.
10. Encourage fair, dignified and honourable competition. 11. Ensure that our staff are acquainted with this code, that they are given all facilities for complying with it, and are encouraged to honour it in the spirit as well as the letter. David Cavill FRSA For the Animal Care College Page 4
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Contents Page 3
Tutorial Team
4
Our Commitment to You
6
Introduction to the Animal Care College
8
Frequently Asked Questions
10
Accreditation and LASER
11
Basic Dog Care, Training and Behaviour
15
Canine Psychology and Behaviour
22
Canine Welfare and Dogs in Society
23
Training Trainers and Instructors
26
Feline Courses
28
Equine Courses
32
Working with Animals
34
Animal Bereavement Counselling
35
Veterinary Practice Reception
36
Canine and Feline Anatomy and Physiology
37
Small Pet Animal Care (Rabbits and Other ‘Small & Furries’)
40
Kennel and Cattery Management
42
Dog Walking, Pet Sitting and Home Boarding
44
Grooming
46
Showing, Judging and Breeding Dogs
49
Short courses: H&S & Legal Issues, Nutrition, Care & Management, Healthcare, Re-Homing, Transport & Restraint, First Aid, Breeding, Natural Healing and Complimentary Therapies
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Welcome to the Animal Care College The Animal Care College was established over 35 years ago and was the first to offer distance-learning courses in caring and working with companion animals. We now have over thirty courses and our success is founded on their quality: they are carefully tailored to satisfy the needs of both the vocational and special interests of our students and the animal care sector. Our course writers and tutors comprise some of the leading experts in the world of companion animal care and management so you can be assured that the courses you complete through the College provide a depth of knowledge and understanding which is recognized by both employers and colleagues. The Animal Care College is a member of the prestigious Association of British Correspondence Colleges - no other college in the sector is a member. Many of our courses have been independently accredited through Laser Learning Awards (the successor to the Open College Network South East Region) and this is your guarantee of the quality of the courses we provide. Unlike some other organisations, the Animal Care College publishes its code of practice, its commitment to students, the names of its tutors - and its complaints and appeals procedures. We will be delighted to send you copies and, of course, they can also be accessed on our web site. The college is also a Preferred Educational Provide for the Kennel Club Instructors Scheme and a member of the Pet Education, Training and Behaviour Council which provides independent work based learning accreditation for successful students of the Animal Care College and other providers We offer a wide range of courses, which will help you begin work in animal care. They include courses for veterinary receptionists, pet sitters/dog walkers and home boarders, those working in pet shops as well as Canine/Equine/Feline Psychology, First Aid, Kennel Work and Kennel Management, Nutrition, Re-homing, Grooming and Animal Behaviour among many others. We have excellent contacts through out the animal care sector, and you can be assured that accredited Animal Care College certification is highly regarded among small businesses, the charitable sector and larger commercial organisations.
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
The College also provides ‘bespoke’ courses for many companies (some are household names), franchises and charities who have consistently found our expertise and professionalism has more than fulfilled their expectations and who praised our attention to detail and the individual student support that we provide. We believe that socially and psychologically, everyone benefits from contact with animals and this is not confined to ownership, but includes all those who want to increase their knowledge of animal care. We therefore strongly encourage applications from all members of the community irrespective of age, sex, marital status, religion or ethnic origin. We are also committed to ensuring that anyone with special needs should be given the access to our courses, and over the years many such students have successfully gained qualifications with us.
Principal: The Animal Care College
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is distance learning? All the courses available through the Animal Care College are open learning packages - what used to be called correspondence courses. Learning is hard work anyway, but distance learning, although it has many advantages is not an easy option. The course work is posted to you or emailed as PDF files for overseas students. How long do the courses last? Most students will find that they have to do about 120 hours of work (30 hrs per unit) (inclusive of reading and research) for Levels 1 and 2 and 300 hours (60 hrs per unit) for Levels 3 and 4. Ideally students should be able to complete one unit of work per month, however, in order to allow for any unforeseen circumstances affecting your studying we allow all students two years to complete without incurring any penalties. Do courses lead to recognised qualifications? Some courses support recognised qualifications such as the Kennel Club’s Trainer and Behaviourists Accreditation Scheme and National Vocational Qualifications. Others are awarded by the College itself, which is dedicated to ensuring that all awards may be used to support National Vocational Qualifications while providing a useful and stimulating series of studies for all those involved in caring for animals both professionally and as enthusiasts. Certification is carefully monitored and Awards are highly regarded within the world of small animal care. Most of our courses are externally accredited by LASER Learning Awards - an independent accrediting organisation recognised by the Department of Education’s Office of Qualifications and Examination Regulation. Do I need any previous experience? Many of the courses run by the College demand some experience but others can be successfully completed by anyone who is genuinely interested in the world of small domestic animals. There are no formal qualifications required before an application can be made, although some courses, require candidates to be employed in the animal care industry if they are to fully complete the course. How do I apply? Candidates can apply by post or on line through the website. All candidates for courses are required to write a formal letter of application with their registration form explaining why they would like to take the course and indicating the way in which they would like to see their interests developing. It is the policy of the Registrar only to enrol those students who are likely to benefit from the course so if, as a result of the letter of application, we feel that another course would be more suitable then we will advise you to that effect. It is in our interests that students are successful so we would not want you to try for a qualification for which you are not suited.
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
How much will it cost? The fees vary for each course and the fees listed cover all work books and tuition but excludes the cost of any text books required. There is also a non-refundable Registration Fee of ÂŁ10 per course. Unlike most other distance learning college we allow a 28 day cooling off period during which time any course fees will be refunded if you decide the course is not suitable for you. What marking system is used? Each student is allocated a tutor who is there to mark your work and offer support throughout the course as required. Each piece of work submitted is carefully graded from A to D. Tutors are asked to make an initial grading as to the award and a proportion are monitored and moderated by the College's tutorial team and the Studies Coordinator. What if I am unhappy with any aspect of my course? There is a formal appeals procedure which refers disputes to an advisory board. In the first instance students are asked to supply several marked Units of work which are submitted to another tutor specialising the same field. The grades are brought to the attention of the Principal who will take an initial decision. Occasionally it is suggested that students submit a Unit for a re-mark. In these circumstances a small fee is charged for the assessment. Associates of the College Successful students are invited to become Associate Members of the Animal Care College. Associates receive the College Newsletter and are also eligible for discounts on all future courses whilst membership is up to date. Full details are forwarded with their certificates. What if I change my mind? If you decide the course is not suitable for you a full refund of the course fees is available, but must be applied for within 28 days of your work being sent to you. Refunds are not available after this period. The registration fee is not refundable. Further questions? If you have any further questions please get in touch - we want to help.
Telephone: 01344 636436 or Email: admin@animalcarecollege.co.uk
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Animal Care College courses are accredited by LASER Learning Awards, a nationally recognised and Ofqual-endorsed awarding body. This means students can rest assured that the courses the College offers are good quality. In addition, students can choose to have their individual achievements recognised by LASER awarding body, as well as by the Animal Care College. A certificate from LASER gives students’ achievements national recognition. · · ·
·
· · · ·
LASER is one of the UK's foremost providers of accreditation services for adult learning - see http://www.ocnser.org.uk/Index.asp for more details A credit is a way of measuring and valuing your learning Your tutor will assess each unit of your course work as you go along and no exams are involved. The course work you provide will give your tutor evidence of what you have learnt. The Animal Care College will be responsible for registering you with LASER if requested. The College will notify LASER of students who have successfully completed their course. The LASER certificate will be sent to the student via the Animal Care College. The level of learning you undertake is comparable to the level of study needed for other courses and recognised qualifications. LASER awards credits at different levels The level given on the certificate for each unit you have achieved shows the stage you have reached in your learning. Students must achieve grades of B and above to be considered for LASER awards Level 1—this is comparable to GCSEs D to G Level 2– this is comparable to GCSEs A* to C Level 3– this is comparable to A & AS levels Level 4- this is comparable to undergraduate study
A LASER certificate is an optional award that we are able to offer to students for the courses accredited by LASER for which there is an additional certification fee, but It is not compulsory and upon successfully completing their course students will, of course, receive the Animal Care College’s own certificate. The status of the Animal Care College is such that an ACC certificate is recognised and accepted throughout the animal care sector.
* LASER Learning Awards/certificates retain their validity in terms of National credits awarded despite the change of name.
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Basic Dog Care Training, and Behaviour
There are many different aspects of pet training and behaviour modification. By far the largest sector is in the training of dogs and there are also specialists who train cats and horses as well as other pet animals. Dog trainers range from those who specialise in puppy socialisation and pet dog training for pet owners; those who just want to have a well behaved dog through to the higher levels of training required for obedience, working with gundogs and working dogs, and in flyball and heelwork to music. Those who find they have a particular training talent can specialise in specific areas or concentrate on behaviour modification. You may be surprised to learn that the Animal Care College does not teach dog trainers. We believe that training dogs is as much about the empathy, experience and expertise of the handler and their ability to understand the character and persona of the dog as it is about method and process. Understanding the psychology of dogs and an appreciation and consideration of its owner and its environment provide the clues necessary for successful training. Training dogs is not about ‘ticking boxes’ and prescriptive, authoritarian or dictatorial techniques are neither acceptable or effective. At the same time, a pet is a member of the family and needs to understand its role and status. If you are considering working with dogs on a one to one basis then our Psychology courses are where you need to start. They are founded on the work of John Fisher. He wrote ‘Think Dog!’ and was regarded as one of the most influential and progressive behaviourists of the 1980s and 1990s working closely with John Rogerson and Sarah Whitehead. If you are looking more towards running training classes then the Dog Training Class Instruction and the Puppy Training Class courses may be for you, However, you should have some previous experience of behaviour to be accepted as these Instructors courses are not suitable for beginners (see page 22).
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Good Citizen Dog Scheme - Support Course These Units have been written to complement and enhance the practical skills and theory learned whilst undertaking the Kennel Club Good Citizen Award Scheme. They are Puppy Basics, Bronze Level, Silver Level and Gold Level. The Units can be completed individually or as you progress through the practical course you can complete each Unit as it becomes relevant. A special study will need to be completed for each individual Unit. Course Content:: Unit 1: Puppy Basics Responsibility and Care. Cleanliness and identification. Attentive response to name. Puppy play. Socialisation. Handling and inspection. Puppy recall. Basic puppy positions. Walking in a controlled manner. Stay for approximately 10 seconds. Take article away from the puppy and food manners. Unit 2: Bronze Level Cleanliness and identification. Collar and lead. Walk on lead. Control at door/gate. Controlled walk amongst people and dogs. Stay on lead for one minute. Groom. Present for examination. Return to handler. Responsibility and care. Unit 3: Silver Level Play with the dog. Road walk. Rejoin the handler. Stay in one place. Vehicle control. Come away from distractions. Controlled greeting. Food manners. Examination of the dog. Responsibility and care. Unit 4: Gold Level Road walk. Return to handler's side. Walk free beside handler. Stay down in one place. Send the dog to bed. Stop the dog. Relaxed isolation. Food manners. Examination of the dog. Responsibility and care.
Level - Foundation ÂŁ204 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Understanding the Family Dog Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126841 (2 Credits E3 & 6 credits Level 1)
A Foundation Level course for those who are keen to gain a basic understanding of topics relating to the behaviour and care of the family dog. This course will provide the student with a wide range of basic information which in turn will enable him or her to progress to Introduction to Canine Psychology. Topics covered: Returning to learning, evolution of the dog, the needs of different breeds, how theories change, natural behaviours, the dog's senses, communication, basic training, normal and abnormal behaviour, health, diet and its effects on the dog. There are four units, and the majority of the student's work will be answering multiple choice questions, plus several short Essays.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Returning to learning, evolution of the dog, dominance theory explained.
Unit 2:
Natural behaviours, the dog's sense, communication. Man's use of the dog.
Unit 3:
Basic Training, Training exercises. What a dog needs to be taught and why. A brief explanation of lure and reward, and clicker training.
Unit 4:
Health checks. Promoting good health. Food and a basic understanding of the contents. How diet affects behaviour.
Foundation Level ÂŁ162 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Fit For Life Training, Feeding and Caring for the Family Dog Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref: 126825 (2 credits at Level 1 and 8 credits at Level 2)
This course promotes a happy relationship between dog and owner by encompassing modern training methods and ensuring that owners recognise how to keep their dog in the peak of physical condition. Completion of this course will cover all the material in Unit 2 of the Introduction to Canine Psychology which will give the student 10% discount on this course.
Course Content: Unit 1 (Level 2) - Positive influences on good health The effects of food, play and exercise, recognising common health problems, the pros and cons of neutering, different ways of feeding dogs, diet related problems and how to overcome them. Unit 2 (Level 2) - All about training The effects of socialisation, reward and clicker training explained, the essentials of early training, canine communication. Unit 3 (Level 2) - At Home or in Class Comparing the benefits and the pitfalls between training at home and in the class, playing games and solving problems. Unit 4 (Level 1) - Teaching the basics Different ways to teach recall, sit, down, stand, stay, wait, retrieve, send away, and having fun while training, preventing problem behaviours and putting them right.
Levels - 1 and 2 ÂŁ252 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Introduction to Canine Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 133274 (12 credits at Level 2)
This course is primarily for people who have limited experience with dogs, and who have undertaken no previous study in canine psychology. The Introductory course will provide newcomers to canine psychology with sound basic concepts, and equip the student for entry into the higher level courses. A Special Study is an integral element of this course.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Relationships: Natural behaviours, pack rules - the modern view, early learning, fun and games.
Unit 2:
Food and exercise: What the dog needs, different feeding methods, a little about labels, when and how to make changes in the diet, the value of exercise.
Unit 3:
Building the bond: Early influences, the stages of puppy hood, coping with the juvenile and adolescent dog, training for every day life, the special needs of the rescue dog.
Unit 4: on
Problem behaviour: What is problem behaviour? Health effects behaviour, owner error, the question of punishment, some ways of putting things right.
There is a discount of 10% of the course fee if the student has successfully completed the Certificate in Fit for Life: Training, Feeding & Caring for the Family Dog.
Level - 2 ÂŁ312 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Intermediate Canine Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 133285 (12 credits at Level 3)
This course will build, extend and develop the knowledge gained in the Introduction course, bring in new concepts, and will provide a sound basis from which to progress to Advanced Canine Psychology. A Special Study is an integral element of this course.
Course Content: Unit 5: the
The dog’s brain - The physical and mental development of puppy. How early experiences affect behaviour. How dogs learn.
Unit 6:
Natural behaviours of the dog - What owners expect. Why and how owners seek to change some behaviours. The psychological and physiological effects of neutering.
Unit 7: the
Canine senses - how they compare and differ from those of human. Canine communication - verbal and body language. Learning to read the signals.
Unit 8: dog’s
The intelligent dog - How mental stimulation increases the intelligence and ability to learn. The importance of play.
Level 3 £372 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Advanced Canine Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126822 (15 credits at Level 4)
Successful completion of this course will equip you to work with problem dogs and their owners in a professional capacity. The Advanced course provides the essential theory to enable you to diagnose the cause of problems, and to formulate a range of programmes for their resolution. It also presents you with the practical aspects of this work. Students must have completed the Intermediate Canine Psychology course or a similar level of study before undertaking this course. This course provides a sound basis on which to progress to Canine Behaviour Counselling (Theory) and/or Modifying Cane Aggression. A Special Study is an integral element of this course.
Course Content: Unit 9:
The Modern Dog/Human relationship - The dog as companion, owner attitudes and how lifestyle affects behaviour.
Unit 10:
Training past and present - Early training methods. Modern methods explained, using training aids and the role of the instructor.
Unit 11:
The Psychology of Learning - Normal dog behaviour. The way the dog learns, stress and how it affects behaviour.
Unit 12:
Diet - modern feeding methods, additives and preservatives. Modifying diet and how it may affect behaviour.
Unit 13:
Health and Behaviour - Common Problems. How health affects behaviour. Common behaviour problems. Use of drugs in behaviour modification. Real life Case Histories.
Level 4 ÂŁ516 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Modifying Canine Aggression Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 132763 (30 credit Level 4)
This course has been written for trainers and behaviourists. It summarises the reasons for aggressive behaviour, the backgrounds and current thinking about the treatment of canine aggression and suggests ways in which aggressive behaviour can be modified.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Living with an aggressive dog, the necessity of aggression for survival, normal/abnormal aggression and acceptable and unacceptable aggression. Safety issues and options. The severity of aggression and preventing its development.
Unit 2:
The neuro-biology of aggression including neurotransmitter and endocrine function and effect. Supportive pharmacology and manipulation of neural activity by diet and/or natural supplements. The effect of constant stress/arousal on emotional responses and thresholds for aggression. Medical conditions and veterinary referral.
Unit 3:
Genetics, learning and classifications.
Unit 4:
Dog-dog aggression and dog-human aggression. Treatment, conditioning alternative behaviours and alternative emotional responses.
Unit 5:
Modifying Behaviour in a Dog and Case studies.
Level 4 ÂŁ444 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Canine Behaviour Counselling (Theory & Practice) Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126818 (12 credits at Level 3/4)
This course provides the theory required by those who wish to practise as Behaviour Counsellors, providing remedial advice to owners who are experiencing a wide range of problems with their dogs. This work requires a sound understanding of dog behaviour. It may include the practitioner providing or supervising some remedial training for the dog, and thus experience in dog training is essential. It also covers the organisational aspects of running a counselling business. Students must have satisfactorily completed the Advanced Canine Psychology course, or Diploma in Dog Training Class Instruction (Part Two), or an equivalent level of study.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Unit 2:
Unit 3: Unit 4:
The work of the Behaviour Counsellor. The needs of the owner. Popular owner misconceptions. Dogs and their natural behaviours. What is ‘normal’? Modern Lifestyles and their effects on behaviour. Canine communication methods. Breakdowns in communication between owner and dog. Stress and its effects. How neutering affects behaviour. The nutritional needs of the dog. Does diet affect behaviour? Making changes and monitoring effects. Health and behavioural changes. Modifying Canine Problem Behaviour - their causes, treatments and resolution. Telephone advice.
Level 4 £420 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Behavioural Modification for Professionals Accredited by LASER Learning Awards
Ref. 126832 (12 credits at Level 4)
This course has been written to provide the essential information on behaviour modification for those working with dogs in a professional capacity. It will be of practical use to veterinary nurses and receptionists, dog wardens, rescue centre staff, groomers, instructors and anyone working with dogs who is called upon to provide advice to owners or to cope with dogs that are displaying behavioural problems. It has been specially written for those whose professional commitments do not allow them to engage in the full range of behaviour counselling which requires home visits and extensive hands-on experience of dog Training.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Understanding the Dog - The natural behaviours of dogs, the effects of socialisation, how dogs learn, modern lifestyle and its effects on behaviour, up to date training methods.
Unit 2:
Diet, Health and Behaviour - The dog’s nutritional needs, how diet affects behaviour, different feeding methods, making changes and monitoring effects, health and behavioural changes, neutering and its effects on behaviour.
Unit 3:
Other Influences on Behaviour - Stress and its effects, physiological and temperament changes in dogs in a confined environment, owner misconceptions, breakdowns in communication between owner and dog.
Unit 4:
Behaviour Problems and their Modification - Assessing the problem, common behavioural problems and techniques for modification, monitoring progress, relationships with owners and other professionals, recognising personal limitations.
Level 4 ÂŁ336 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Modern Theories of Canine Behaviour, Psychology and Training Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126829 (6 credits at Level 3)
A two unit Professional Development Course which explores the modern theories and development across three decades in our understanding of how the dog evolved, how it learns, the realities of dominance and why some behaviours develop which are unacceptable to owners. It also considers the effects of diet and health on behaviour and gives an overview of some of the drug therapy now available to support dog and owner through modification of unwanted behaviours. The course will provide evidence for portfolios required by the Kennel Club and other professional bodies concerned with those offering behavioural advice and providing training for dogs and their owners. The course will be of benefit to those already providing behavioural advice to owners and for those training dogs who are finding more and more that they are being asked for assistance with problem behaviours. It is an ideal course for those requiring Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points. Experience in dog training and/or prior study of canine behaviour and training is essential if one is to benefit fully from this advanced level course. Ideally a student should already be working as a behaviourist/trainer.
Level 3 ÂŁ264 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
A few words about our mission The Animal Care College does not train dogs or teach people to train dogs What we do is to provide our students with knowledge and understanding along with opportunities to observe and research which will reflect the specific talents and skills of our students and enable them to develop techniques which will be effective for canine, feline and equine welfare, for their clients and for the dogs, cats and horses into which they come into contact. The College as had 35 years of experience working with some of the foremost authorities in the world of animal care who have provided advice, courses and tutorials skills all of which have created and maintained our enviable reputation. We also work closely with other organisations, particularly the Pet Education, Training and Behaviour Council which in association with a number of Colleges provides a range of work-based learning modules which build on the theoretical knowledge and skills which have been developed through distance learning courses. Working with animals is wonderfully rewarding and it is our objective to help our students follow their vocation effectively by providing them with all the necessary resources to fulfil their role in caring for animals.
Canine Welfare and Dogs in Society This course provides an introduction to the importance of dogs to people and to society and provides a foundation on which a career in animal care depends.. It also fulfils the requirements of Section A1 of the Kennel Club's KCAI Scheme. The course is entirely online and uses live hyperlinks to many helpful and useful websites which have been carefully researched by the College in the creation of the course which is suitable for anyone who wishes to understand the animal care framework which exists in the UK. The course includes: •Social background to dog (and pet) ownership •The importance of dogs to people both as pets and in support roles •The legal implications of dog ownership •The complex framework, structure and work of special interests groups
Begins anytime - £144 Page 22
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Puppy Training Class Instruction Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126848 (12 Credits at Level 3)
Running puppy classes at a veterinary practice, pet shop or locally by a dog walker or pet sitter is an excellent way to retain clients. Whether they are provided free or a charge is made, such classes provide a valuable service to both the dog/puppy and their family by ensuring that their pet is well trained. It also fulfils some essential requirements of the Kennel Club Accreditation Scheme for dog training class instructors. This is not a course for the inexperienced. Students must be confident in and around dogs and have some knowledge of canine care and handling.
Course Content: Unit 1: Responsibilities of the Instructor Experience, qualifications, coping with stress, using time effectively and practical approaches to running classes. Unit 2: Modern Dog Training Methods How the dog learns, traditional and modern training methods, how dogs communicate and fun and games exercises. Unit 3: Care, Behaviour and Diet Owner expectation, handling skills, owner stress and effects on behaviour, neutering and diet. Unit 4: Dog Training and Owners Organising classes, discussion with owners and coping with behaviour problems.
Level 3 Price: ÂŁ372 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Dog Training Class Instruction (Theory) Part 1 Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126835 (15 credits at Level 3)
The course is designed to help those who are planning to become instructors by giving them an insight into what teaching classes actually involves. The course has been written by members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and of the Federation of Dog Trainers and Canine Behaviourists, who have many years experience as instructors and behaviour counsellors. It fulfils many of the requirements of the Kennel Club Accreditation Scheme for dog training class instructors. Those wishing to take this course should have several years dog handling experience and have taken the Intermediate Canine Psychology course, Advanced Canine Psychology course, or equivalent level of study
Course Content: Unit 1:
The responsibilities, gaining experience, The Instructor: qualifications, coping with stress, using time well.
Unit 2:
Understanding the dog: How the dog learns, traditional and modern training methods, how the dog learns, communication, fun and games.
Unit 3:
Looking at owners: Why train? Owner expectation, handling skills, owner stress involving the family and children, neutering and diet.
Unit 4:
Taking the class: Organising classes, discussions with owners, coping with behaviour problems, ways to keep owners coming back.
Unit 5:
The private instructor and the club instructor: Major differences between the club and the private business venture, practical considerations of venue, advertising, assistants, committee management and maintaining good relationships.
Level 3 ÂŁ432 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Dog Training Class Instruction (Theory) Part 2 Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126837 (30 credits at Level 3)
With Part 1 these units fulfil many of the requirements of the Kennel Club Accreditation Scheme for dog training class instructors. Part 2 provides the instructor with insight into the interactions between dogs and their owners as well as considering the dog’s perception of his training and the instructors role as teacher. Students wishing to take this course should have several years dog handling experience and have taken Part 1 or an equivalent level of study
Course Content: Unit 6:
Problem Prevention - Choice of puppy/breeder. Breed related behaviour. Genetic predisposition.
Unit 7:
Problem Definition - Recognition and interruption of problem behaviour. Unrealistic owner expectations. The adolescent dog.
Unit 8:
The Class - Types of classes. Comparisons. Problem prevention in the class. Rehabilitation classes. The dog’s view.
Unit 9:
The Home Environment - The dog in the human environment. Training aids. Problem prevention in the home. The ‘behaviourist’.
Unit 10
People as Owners - Human perceptions and misunderstandings. Reinforcing the dog/owner relationship.
Level 3 £432 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Intermediate Feline Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126846 (12 credits at Level 2)
The behaviour and psychology of cats giving valuable insights into the feline world for professionals in veterinary surgeries, rescue centres, grooming parlours and catteries as well as for pet owners wanting to know more about the cat’s relationship with human society. This course can be successfully completed by anyone who is genuinely interested in feline psychology and provides an excellent basis for further study through the Advanced Feline Psychology course. Successful completion will provide an insight into why cats behave as they do and will enhance your knowledge as well as develop your relationship with them. This course will not make ‘instant experts’, however, its successful completion will mean that the more subtle elements of feline psychology can be discussed constructively.
Course Content: Unit 1:
How mankind perceives the cat’s place in society, evolution, the cat in different cultures.
Unit 2:
The anatomy and physiology of the cat, nutrition, understanding hunting techniques.
Unit 3:
Nature - nurture. Physiological development. Social development. How cats learn, feeding and the effects on behaviour.
Unit 4:
Inter-feline relationships and how to manage some of our pet cats’ common problem behaviour.
Level 2 £372 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Advanced Feline Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126847 (24 credits at Level 3)
This advanced course builds on the foundations laid down in the Intermediate course on the behaviour and psychology of cats and gives further and in depth information for professionals in veterinary surgeries, rescue centres, grooming parlours and catteries as well as for pet owners wanting to know more about the cat’s relationship with human society. It provides an insight into why cats behave as they do and will enhance your knowledge as well as develop your relationship with them. It will also enable you to begin to advise other cat owners about the behaviour of their pets This course will not make ‘instant experts’ but its successful completion will mean that the more subtle elements of feline psychology can be discussed constructively.
Course Content: Unit 5:
How cats communicate - body language, marking, scratching.
Unit 6:
Owners’ expectation of cat behaviour and complex inter-feline Relationships.
Unit 7:
Feline behavioural problems with particular reference to inappropriate elimination.
Unit 8:
Aggression and how to deal with feline aggression.
Level 3 £432 Instalment option available
Page 27
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Introduction to Equine Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126845 (12 credits at Level 1)
This course in elementary equine psychology provides horse owners and would-be owners with essential knowledge that enables them to understand equine behaviour, and includes how horses think, how they learn and how they have developed into the animal that we know today. The course work involves a dynamic and exciting blend of academic study alongside practical fieldwork and observation. It will be of interest to anyone involved with horses and their care from owners to animal sanctuary volunteers and to those wishing to pursue a career in horses. It also provides a solid basis for further study of the subject at Intermediate and Advanced levels.
Course Content: Unit 1: t
Introducing the horse - History, development of types and breeds, the horse as a product of evolution.
Unit 2:
The horse in the wild - The social environment of the herd: Environment and social structure, who is the boss? - Exploring Issues of dominance and hierarchy, foal development, the function of play.
Unit 3:
Horses in the human environment: The fall and rise of the horse, changing attitudes - the role of the horse from industrial machine to leisure and sport, an artificial environment.
Unit 4:
Getting in tune with your horse: Being with horses, reading horse language, effects of human stress on horses, concepts of reductionistic vs holistic approaches.
Level - 1 ÂŁ252 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Intermediate Equine Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126838 (12 credits at Level 2)
This intermediate course in equine psychology builds on the foundations laid down in the Introductory course. As at Level 1, the course work involves a dynamic and exciting blend of academic study alongside practical fieldwork and observation. It will be of interest to anyone involved with horses and their care from owners to animal sanctuary volunteers to those wishing to pursue a career in horses. It also provides a solid basis for further study of the subject at advanced levels.
Course Content: Unit 5:
The horse’s senses - Sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste.
Unit 6:
How intelligent are horses? - What is intelligence, the horses brain, old and new ideas, intelligence testing, relativity of intelligence, looking at human attitudes.
Unit 7:
How horses learn - Classical vs operant conditioning, positive and negative reinforcement, negative reinforcement vs punishment.
Unit 8:
Common behavioural problems - Biting, bolting, bucking, rearing, napping, spooking, difficulty catching, trailer problems, bad behaviour with vet, farrier or dentist.
Level - 2 ÂŁ312 Instalment option available
Page 29
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Advanced Equine Psychology Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126839 (24 credits at Level 3)
This advanced course in equine psychology builds on the foundations laid down in the Introductory and Intermediate courses. As at the Level 1 and 2, the course work involves a dynamic and exciting blend of academic study alongside practical fieldwork and observation. It will be of interest to anyone involved with horses and their care and to all those involved professionally with all aspects of equine care from owners of yards and livery stables to those responsible for animal sanctuaries. In fact, anyone wishing to pursue a career in horses will find that this series of awards provides the key knowledge that is required to thoroughly understand the psychology of the horse.
Course Content: Unit 9:
Horse/human relations and communication - bonding and friendship, r e a d i n g t h e s i g n s , " s p e a k " h o r s e , s u b t l e communication, horse whisperers and animal communicators, how human problems affect horses.
Unit 10:
Abnormal behaviour problems - dealing with depression, stereotypes, stable vices, foal rejection, chronic stress.
Unit 11:
Case taking and procedure - taking the case, dealing with owners, owner counselling, veterinary involvement.
Unit 12: Trust,
The importance of our part in the alliance with the horse choice, concentration, self-control, responsibility and reliability. The listening ear and seeing eye. The importance of low pulse rate and consistent body language. Taking responsibility for our actions. Positive and negative reinforcement.
Level 3 ÂŁ372 Instalment option available
Page 30
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Horse & Pony Management Accredited by LASER Learning Award Ref: 131779 (31 Credits Level 2 & 10 Credits at level 3)
Whether you are thinking about buying or loaning your first horse or pony, wanting to ‘get back into’ horses after a break of some years and are aware that there have been a lot of changes in horse management, the non-horsey parent or a pony-mad child, just wanting to update your knowledge, this new course, written by a British Horse Society Accredited Instructor, will guide you through every aspect of understanding and keeping your horse safe and healthy.
Course Content: Part 1 -
Level 2: 5 units covering: evolutionary process; equine terminology; stabling; grazing; feeding; watering; general care; preventative treatments; parasites; considering financial implications. £312
Part 2 -
Level 2: 5 units covering: foot care, common ailments; feeding and forage; identifying, using and caring for tack; showing and selling; bathing, clipping; breed standards and transporting. £312
Part 3 -
Level 3: 3 units covering: management; conformation; shoeing, teeth; anatomical and physiological structures; stable vices. £312
Instalment options are available
Page 31
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Working With Animals
The special relationship existing between domestic pet animals and people means there are many opportunities to be employed or self employed in the domestic sector of the animal care industry. Pet animals must be looked after properly and, while most of the time they are the responsibility of their owners, thousands of jobs are required in pet shops, grooming parlours, veterinary surgeries, boarding kennels, catteries, training kennels and rescue centres or, on a smaller scale, dog walking, pet sitting, home boarding, bereavement counselling or pet transport. There are also many excellent opportunities in the services, police and in security. Animal Care is a field where interest, aptitude and commitment are often more important than initial entry qualifications. Experience of animal handling or dog training with your own or other people's pets is often expected and is evidence that you are highly motivated and any accredited qualification will be to your advantage. The Animal Care College has an enviable reputation and as it well known in the industry, an Animal Care College Certificate can mean the difference between being interviewed for a job or for acceptance on a college course or further training in the workplace and being rejected. Many now well known people began their career by studying with the Animal Care College - Mic Martin and Vicki Halls to name but two. Employers need people who have good pet animal handling skills and these are only gained through experience. Many of the larger rescue societies have volunteer groups in place who help out with anything from the cleaning and walking to fund raising. Getting voluntary work is an excellent way to discover whether this is the type of work for you. There is much more information and advice, including a contact list, in the College’s publication: Careers in Animal Care which is available through the web site. www.animalcarecollege.co.uk
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Caring for Animals in Kennels & Catteries Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126836 (24 credits at Level 2)
The Caring for Animals Certificate has proved a useful qualification within the animal care sector for those working in the industry. A minimum of 30 hours practical work throughout the course is required working within a commercial or charity kennels/cattery so that the practical elements of the course can be completed even if it is only in a voluntary capacity.
Course Content: Unit 1: Record keeping, law relating to small animals, customer service, hygiene, health & safety, first aid. Unit 2: Anatomy of the dog and cat, skeleton, musculature, growth, skin, coat, senses, blood, lymphatic, nervous, urino-genital and digestive systems. Unit 3: Nutrition, diets, feeding for pregnancy, at weaning and for geriatrics, stock control. Unit 4: Health, basic animal nursing and first aid, use of drugs, diseases, infections, vaccination, parasites, veterinary attention, care of older animals. Unit 5: Kennel routines, grooming, special needs and requirements of: quarantine, rescue, welfare, showing, breeding, veterinary, hunting and other specialist centres. Unit 6: Animal welfare issues, human support dog work and organisations, job applications and conditions of employment.
Level 2 ÂŁ372 Instalment option available
Page 33
Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Diploma in Companion Animal Bereavement Counselling Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126834 (6 Credits at Level 2 & 3 Credits at Level 3 (†)
A course designed to ensure that those whose work brings them into contact with pets that must be euthanased have an understanding of the best ways of relieving the distress of owners. The Diploma is based on extensive research into pet bereavement. Many people within the world of animal care are brought into close contact with those who have loved and lost a pet. They include veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, pet behaviourists, obedience trainers, boarding kennel owners and receptionists and pet shop staff. The course is made up of three Units and a Special Study. The topics covered include:
Course Content: Unit 1: The human/animal relationship, euthanasia, natural death, disposal and euphemisms. Unit 2: The effects of pet loss, the attitudes of others, the special problems associated with elderly owners and with children, displacement, grieving, the importance of ceremony and coping with other animals who may pine. Unit 3: Replacement animals, the need for mementos, the role of veterinary surgeons and other professionals, the role of counsellors.
Levels 2/3 ÂŁ300 Instalment option available
Page 34
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Veterinary Practice Receptionist Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126831 (30 Credits at Level 3)
Veterinary receptionists are vital members of the team at any veterinary practice. They are almost always the first contact a client has with the practice and the impression that they project can cement or destroy the relationship. Veterinary receptionists need to understand the basics of many veterinary conditions as well as being able to cope with the administration in what can be a very busy ‘office’ if they are to carry out their duties effectively. They are the interface between the veterinary surgeons, practice nurses and the client so need to know how best to explain recommended treatments and be able to help in sometimes difficult and complex situations. Candidates should be working in a practice, have some experience of working with animals and some office skills to take this course.
Course Content: Unit 1: Normal and abnormal clinical signs in the dog and cat, emergencies and first aid. Unit 2: Clinical signs of infectious diseases, advising regarding vaccination, worming, flea control and dental care. Unit 3: Advising re choosing a pet, whelping and hand rearing puppies and Kittens. Unit 4: Basic principles of nutrition, basic information about medication, advising regarding identification of pets, transport and handling, advising regarding lost and found animals. Unit 5: Customer care, booking appointments, dealing with difficult clients, payments, office equipment and IT, maintenance of reception area.
Level 3 £372 Instalment option available
Page 35
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Anatomy and Physiology of Cats and Dogs Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126817 (27 Credits at Level 3)
This course is designed for all those who would like to learn more about the structure and metabolism of dogs and cats and will be of particular interests to those who are or would like to be, professionally involved with their care and management. Employees in pet shops, boarding kennels/catteries, groomers, hydro-therapists, assistants/receptionists in veterinary surgeries will be better able to provide the customer service expected by customers and clients if they have successfully completed this course. The course is written and tutored by an experienced veterinary surgeon/teacher and provides much of the essential knowledge evidence required by advanced courses. Students taking this course in conjunction with the Grooming (Theory) or the Veterinary Practice Receptionist course are entitled to a 10% discount on the course fee.
Course Content: Unit 1: Basic structure and digestive system. Unit 2: Cardiovascular lymphatic and endocrine systems. Unit 3: Locomotory, nervous and respiratory systems. Unit 4: Reproductive and excretory systems. Unit 5: Skin, ear and eye.
Level 3 ÂŁ372) Instalment option available
Page 36
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Care and Management of Small Companion Animals LASER accreditation to be advised This course is a general introduction for those who are responsible for the care and welfare of small companion animals housed temporarily in a boarding establishment or prior to sale from pet shops. It would also interest those looking after these small mammals at home. The course can be taken as four or five Units. The fifth unit is specifically designed for those looking after larger numbers of small animals within the retail environment.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Introduction - Why we keep pets, choosing a new pet, suitability of the pet for the environment, compatibility between pet and lifestyle, commitment required, life expectancy, descriptions of each variety.
Unit 2:
Housing and Handling - Suitable enclosures, bedding, safe handling, temperature - indoors vs outdoors, house training rabbits.
Unit 3:
Diet and Exercise - Correct feeding, foods to avoid, poisonous foods, need for exercise, suitable toys to ensure rich environment to prevent boredom and behavioural problems.
Unit 4:
General Health - Individual requirements for each variety, care of teeth, claws, bathing etc. signs of stress and symptoms of ill health.
Unit 5:
(Optional Unit) Customer care and the management of small mammals within the retail environment.
Level 2 Units 1 - 4 ÂŁ312 With Unit 5 ÂŁ372 Instalment options available Page 37
Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Caring for Animals in Pet Shops Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref 133251 (6 credits at Level 3)
This course is designed for pet shop managers and assistants provides evidence acceptable to Local Authority Licensing Officers that they know and understand the complexities of working in the pet retail environment. It includes guidance on working successfully with the public, colleagues and management, health and safety essentials and the special and general legal responsibilities expected of those caring for pet animals. The course is available entirely on-line (although hard copy course notes are available if required) and within its pages are live hyper-links to many web sites which provide further, authoritative information. This research is an important element of ‘proper’ education and supplements the course material. This short course provides a sound foundation for further specialised courses on specific species.
Level 3 - Short Course - £144
*Caring for Animals in Rescue Centres Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref 133251 (6 credits at Level 3)
This course is suitable for all those beginning work in rescue centres. It includes guidance on working successfully with the public, colleagues and management, health and safety essentials and the special and general legal responsibilities expected of those caring for pet animals. The course is available entirely on-line (although hard copy course notes are available if required) and within its pages are live hyper-links to many web sites which provide further, authoritative information. This research is an important element of ‘proper’ education and supplements the course material. This short course provides a sound foundation for further specialised courses on specific species.
Level 3 - Short Course - £144
Page 38
Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Caring for Animals - Rabbits In the process of being accredited as a National Qualification
This course provides you with all the information needed to care for rabbits, whether you are a professional working in a pet shop or an enthusiastic pet owner. It is a ‘Level 3’ which means the work expected is about the standard of an 'A' Level course. It will therefore require a lot of effort for it is ‘proper’ education - and is not just a question of looking at pictures and ticking a few boxes! The course is provided entirely online so within its pages are live hyperlinks to many web sites which will provide you with a great deal of information. This research is an important element of ‘proper’ education and supplements the information provided in the course. You just click on the links within the course work to open the relevant Internet pages which have been carefully selected by the College to provide sound and helpful information. This course is suitable for pet shop managers and assistants who are required to provide evidence to their Local Authority Licensing Officer that they know and understand the complexities of caring for rabbits properly.
Level 3 - Short Course - £144
Animal Care College Diploma in Canine/Feline Care Our three short courses on Advance Nutrition for Dogs and Cats, Advance Care and Management of Dogs and Cats and Advance Health Care for Dogs and Cats may be taken as one course leading to the College's Diploma In Canine/Feline Care. This advanced course comprehensively covers all the theory required by those caring directly for dogs and cats in rescue centres or breeding kennels or who are expected to have a sound knowledge in providing advice to customers in pet shops. Full details of each element can be found on pages 50 and 51
Level 3 - £450 Instalment option available
Page 39
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Kennel and cattery ownership and management
There are currently no formal qualifications required to purchase and run your own kennel or cattery although you will need a licence from the local authority who may ask that you or your employed staff have some animal care qualification. Formally, the license does not require the owner to have any specific qualifications and therefore it is that much more important that anyone taking on this major responsibility is aware of the complexities of caring for people’s pets.
The capital required to purchase your own kennel is substantial as you are usually buying accommodation as well as a business, although more kennels are becoming available for rent.
There is a demand for experienced and well qualified kennel staff to work in the kennels sector and to manage kennels for various commercial and charitable organisations. But to do so you will require considerable experience as well as the Animal Care College’s Diploma of Kennel Management, (page 41 opposite)
The College’s Diploma in
Canine/Feline Care (page 39) or, to work ‘hands on’ in a kennels or cattery, the College’s Caring for Animals in Kennels and Catteries (page 33) Apart from animal handling skills, all the usual small business expertise is required. You will also need people skills, both for dealing with concerned and sometimes highlyemotional customers, to local authority officers and staff who are often young and/or inexperienced.
Page 40
Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Kennel and Cattery Management Accredited by the LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126828 (33 Credits at Level 3)
This course has been designed for persons wishing to own or manage a Boarding Kennel/Cattery. The purpose of this course is to provide a framework of material which can be used to make an extensive study of kennel management methods by the participants and so to set high standards within the world of animal care. As far as we are aware it is the only course available in the UK which focuses on kennel ‘management’ rather than caring for animals. The areas of work are laid down in the work books that accompany the course. The format of the course is similar to that of post graduate tuition at University.
Course Content: Unit 1: Profit and loss, the financial implications involved in running a kennel. Unit 2: Planning and design, systems buildings versus permanent structures, planning permissions, the Animal Welfare Act. Unit 3: Health and welfare, environmental issues, Model Licence Conditions, Working practices. Unit 4: Developing business, managing and training staff, running account and bookkeeping. Unit 5: Working routines and procedures, health and safety, COSHH regulations, Health and Hygiene. Unit 6: Advertising, public relations, associated profitable enterprises.
Level 3 Price ÂŁ432 Instalment option available
Page 41
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Dog Walking, Pet Sitting and Home Boarding
There has been an increasing demand for pet sitting, dog walking and home boarding services as owners have become more aware of the importance of caring for their pets properly and not leaving them too long on their own. Also some owners prefer not to use boarding kennels and catteries as they feel that they are more stressful for their pets. Pet sitting and dog walking are services that are easy to start, require very little capital and are likely to be profitable if they are set up and managed properly. You need to be prepared to be out in all weathers! The requirements of the 2006 Animal Welfare Act demand a high level of care from anyone responsible for animals so an understanding of general care, nutrition, behaviour, training, health and safety, and legal and insurance issues are essential if the demands of clients are to be fulfilled. Home boarding is not to be undertaken lightly. Though it sounds easy, a local authority licence is required and planning permission will need to be sought. To date there is no requirement for anyone offering a pet sitting service to be licensed (unless you are offering home boarding) and no qualifications are required or likely to be demanded in the foreseeable future. However, as with pet sitting , dog walking and home boarding, it is essential to pay strict attention to security. Facing an owner returning from holiday if the dog has been lost, injured or has died is dreadful, even if the service provider is not directly responsible. However, if their lack of care or knowledge contributed to the loss then they are also liable for damages.
Page 42
Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Pet Sitting/Dog Walking & Home Boarding Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126830 (30 Credits at Level 3)
A Pet Sitter/Dog Walker & Home Boarder has a very important role to play in the care of animals. It is really only the type of person who considers that their pet is one of the family that employs one. The Sitter is not only asked to care for a very precious family member but they also have access to and may live in the owner's home. In order to perform their duties it is essential that they have knowledge of a wide range of topics and the purpose of this course to ensure that owners can be assured that their pet sitter/dog walker & home boarder is competent and knowledgeable.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Basic legislation relating to animals, advertising and marketing, records, banking and taxes. laws & regulations relating to pet home boarding.
Unit 2:
Signs of health, basic veterinary terminology, methods of regarding constraint, first aid, caring for geriatric animals, giving medication.
Unit 3:
The Five ‘Freedoms’, nutrition, hygiene, healthcare, breeds, grooming, and normal and abnormal behaviour.
Unit 4
General care and management of small domestic pets, nutrition, health problems, handling small animals, infectious diseases, disinfectants and disinfections.
Level 3 ÂŁ372 Instalment option available
Page 43
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Dog and Cat Grooming
Groomers work from their own homes, in pet-shops, specialist grooming salons, show kennels or within pet shops and veterinary practices. They make dogs look their best by shampooing and scissoring their coats, clipping nails and cleaning ears and teeth. Groomers need to be good at handling dogs (and cats) and calming them if they are nervous. Grooming is a very physical job as there is a lot of lifting and moving involved and the hot, hairy environment of a busy grooming salon may not suit everyone. It takes determination and practice to make a living as a dog groomer and while finding work with an existing grooming room can be difficult, prospects for self-employment are good as you can set up your own business with very little capital. Practical training may be given on the job if you work at a kennels or pet shop which could possibly lead to a range of City and Guilds and NPTC certificates in dog-grooming run in conjunction with the Pet Industry Federation (PIF). Finding practical training can be difficult and it is expensive so do make sure any practical course you take leads to a recognised qualification and the centre is accredited by the Pet Industry Federation. A list of accredited dog grooming training centres is available from the Federation at www.petcare.org.uk, and the Animal Care College has special arrangements with several establishments which we know personally and can recommend (detail underneath the Grooming qualification on our website at www.animalcarecollge.co.uk. The College’s Grooming ‘Craft’ qualification is an excellent stepping stone to full qualification and we can arrange for you to have the practical tuition at approved Grooming Schools around the country. There are full details on our web site under the ‘Grooming’ link. Page 44
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Dog Grooming (Theory) Accredited by LASER Ref. 126820 (33 Credits at Level 3)
This course is designed for those involved in practical grooming training. The course provides the prior knowledge needed to successfully pass the City & Guilds 7750/2 dog grooming written examination and may be useful in fulfilling the knowledge evidence requirements of NVQ courses.
Course Content: Unit 1: Unit 2: Unit 3: Unit 4: Unit 5:
Health & safety, handling, restraint and control. General care and welfare (anal glands, nails, ears, eyes, skin and teeth). Clipping lines, breed knowledge and glossary of terms. Parasites, diseases, injections and conditions of the dog. Running a business, working routines, first aid.
Students should not expect the course to provide an easy qualification. The standards of City & Guilds are demanding so it will be most useful for those involved in extended training. Most of the studies set require considerable research both at home and at the work place so at least five hours each week should be allowed for study. The acquisition of practical grooming skills requires practice under the tuition of someone who has both a high level of skill and teaching experience and this course cannot replace that experience in any sense. However, it can ensure that the relevant and essential background knowledge is thoroughly understood.
Level 3 ÂŁ372 Instalment option available
Page 45
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Showing, breeding and judging
Despite critical, often inaccurate media coverage, the ownership, breeding and showing of pedigree dogs continues to be a hobby that attracts many thousands. The immense crowds at Crufts each year and the continuing demand for pedigree puppies is such that responsible breeders cannot keep up with the demand - one of the reasons why puppy farms and trading kennels continue to do such brisk business. The Animal Care College has three long established courses which are accepted as the best and most comprehensive introductions to Showing, Breeding and Judging, for those who are committed and enthusiastic, The authors and tutors for these courses are experienced and successful in the show ring at the highest levels and many successful exhibitors, breeders and judges began their career by studying with the College. The College is committed to the highest quality in pedigree dogs; all the courses emphasise the importance of health and welfare in every aspect of care from puppyhood to veteran. You may read in the popular press and see programmes on television which imply that it is not possible to breed healthy, happy, long-lived active pedigree dogs. This is most definitely and absolutely not the case as the vast majority of dogs which appear in the show ring attest. This does not mean there are no problems with pedigree breeds but they are not as prevalent as the media would have you believe - and College courses will help students avoid them. Page 46
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Judging Diploma An introduction to the art and science of judging dogs for breed specialists and non-specialists. The Judging Diploma Course teaches the principles of judging and the understanding of structure, movement, conformation and breed type. The successful ownership and exhibition of show dogs over a minimum period of five years is an important pre-requisite for the course. It would also be advantageous to be on a breed club ‘B’ list although any judging experience would be helpful. Fully revised to cover the Conformation and Movement content of the Kennel Club’s Judges’ Training Scheme.
Course Content: Intro:
Ethics, learning, peer, sub-conscious and external pressures, philosophy, methods of study.
Unit 1:
Anatomy, structure, conformation, balance.
Unit 2:
Movement in relation to conformation, speed and balance.
Unit 3:
Analysis of type and breed standards.
Unit 4:
Comparative Analysis - how can you ‘know’ you are ‘right’.
Unit 5:
Quality - what constitutes the ‘extra’ value in top winning dogs.
Unit 6:
Decision making, understanding optical and psychological illusions , record keeping.
Level 4 £474 Instalment option available
Page 47
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Dog Breeding Accredited by the LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126843 (Unit 2 - 6 credits at Level 2†: Complete course 31 Credits at Level 3)
At one time, it was possible to pick up the basics of breeding pedigree dogs as you went along although it was a slow process. It is possible to learn the essentials of breeding good dogs quite quickly using modern educational techniques and the Dog Breeding course has been designed to cover the basic knowledge required for successful breeding and exhibiting. Completion of the course will not, therefore, automatically turn anyone into a successful breeder though it will help avoid many of the pitfalls which waste so much time and cost so much money in the early stages. The principles of health and welfare, genetics, anatomy, movement, conditioning and an appreciation of quality can be learned in exactly the same way as any other body of knowledge.
Course Content: Unit 1:
Introduction, ethics, interpretation of standards, principles of breed type, health and welfare.
Unit 2†: Anatomy, structure, conformation, balance, movement, abnormalities. Unit 3:
Genetics: genes, chromosomes, transmission of genetic material, expression, dominant and recessive genes.
Unit 4:
Genetics: single gene characteristics, characteristics controlled by more than one gene, genetic controls, genetic and environmental influences, heritability.
Unit 5:
Pedigree and parentage, foundation stock, prepotency, line breeding, in-breeding, out-crossing, breeding better dogs.
Unit 6:
Mating, whelping and weaning, rearing, nutrition and conditioning.
Level 3 £474 Instalment option available
Page 48
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Showing Dogs A course in the administration, showing, breeding, judging and understanding the world of show dogs. This course is designed as an introduction to the world of showing and breeding for those who have recently become interested in exhibiting dogs. It provides an excellent basis for further study, helps make the best use of practical experience gained during the initial stages of learning about dogs and also help students make the best of their dogs in the ring. The course will not make ‘instant experts’ but its successful completion will mean that the more subtle aspects of the world of dogs can be discussed constructively and breed type, movement and conformation can be observed intelligently. The course has been fully revised to cover the Rules and Regulations, Conformation and Movement and ‘Points of the Dog' content of the Kennel Club’s Judges’ Training Scheme.
Course Content: Unit 1: Introduction, learning, methods of study, structure of the world of dogs, ethics. Unit 2: Showing, understanding breed type. Unit 3: Physiology, anatomy and conformation. Unit 4: General care, training, grooming, breeding. Unit 5: Stewarding, ring procedures, interpretation of standards, judging. Unit 6: Summing up, responsibilities of show management, responsibilities of the Kennel Club, roads to success.
Level 3 £432 Instalment option available Page 49
Animal Care College - Prospectus
*Health, Safety, Legal and Associated Issues Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126833 (6 credits at Level 2)
This rather clumsy title refers to the essential knowledge and understanding required by anyone working professionally within the animal care sector. The Animal Welfare Bill (2006) with its emphasis on the ‘duty of care’ has created an expectation by Local Authorities and the general public that anyone working professionally with pets will be aware of and understand these important legal requirements. Possession of this certificate, if the student does not already have experience of these issues, will ensure compliance with the requirements of the Bill.
Level 2 - Short Course
£144
Breeding Section 1 covers the practical information required by those responsible for mating and whelping puppies. Soundness and fitness is examined and explained, as is the importance of a suitable environment and socialisation. Section 2 provides a basic knowledge of genetics and introduces the concept of hereditability, dominant, recessive and threshold characteristics, inbreeding, line breeding and out crossing.
Level 2 - Short Course £144
Advanced Nutrition for Dogs & Cats Accredited by LASER Ref. 126816 (6 credits at Level 3)
Section 1 Asks ‘What is Food?’, discusses the digestive system and how it works and investigates the constituents and merits of the various feeding regimes, labelling and packaging. Section 2 investigates the nutritional requirements of dogs and cats from birth to old age. Also considered are feeding the pregnant and lactating bitch and queen, the special needs of the veteran dog or cat, feeding the sick or convalescent animal and special dietary regimes.
Level 3 - Short Course £180 Instalment option available Page 50
Animal Care College - Prospectus
Advanced Care and Management for Dogs & Cats Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126823 (6 credits at Level 3)
Section 1 looks at the physical aspects of kittens and puppies from conception to old age including their growth and development. It also discusses the expressive language used by dogs and cats, grooming needs and essential equipment. Section 2 concentrates on their mental development, how socialisation and play affects them and also considers the dangers that lie within various environments. Boarding and veterinary insurance are also discussed.
Level 3 - Short Course ÂŁ180 Instalment option available
Advanced Health Care for Dogs & Cats Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126824 (6 credits at Level 3)
Section 1 looks at general health care, preventative medicine, the effects of spaying and neutering, poisons and the effects and alleviation of hereditary defects and diseases. It also examines the increasingly popular alternative medicines in the form of natural and flower remedies, osteopathy and chiropractice. Section 2 considers the common ailments of dogs and cats and their treatment as well as first aid and emergencies, including those which may occur during whelping and kittening.
Level 3 - Short Course ÂŁ180 Instalment option available
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Re-homing Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126840 (6 Credits at Level 3)
The re-homing of both dogs and cats has become very sophisticated over the past few years. Section1 discusses the implications of rescued animals in confined environments for relatively long periods of time and the problems they pose for those responsible for their rehabilitation. Section 2 explains the elements of matching homes to animals and ways in which the behaviour of both parties may be analysed and developed to ensure positive results.
Level 3 - Short Course £180
Transport and Restraint Accredited by LASER Learning Awards Ref. 126844 (12 Credits at Level 3)
These two subjects are examined in depth in this two Unit course for professionals which considers all aspects of transport and restraint for dogs, cats and other species. It will be of particular value to veterinary receptionists and anyone employed where animals need to be transported and handled safely. Section 1 explains the animal’s emotions and fear involved in being restrained or moved and the handler’s responsibility to ensure the experience is as stress free as possible. The different ways of restraining an animal are also discussed. Section 2 covers the regulations involved in transporting animals and the comfort and safety of the animal whilst being moved.
Level 3 - Short Course £180
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Canine First Aid Accredited by LASER Ref. 126819 (3 Credits at Level 2)
This course has been written to give owners confidence when coping with the everyday injuries which their dog may suffer. It will also be of value to those running training classes, working in boarding kennels, groomers, pet sitters/dog walkers/home boarders and pet shops where puppies and dogs in their care may suffer injury or illness. In addition to coping with minor injuries, the student will learn to compare the signs of good health with signs of possible problems, to recognise pain signals and administer medication. The course also covers the essential actions necessary when coping with an emergency such as a road accident or the ingestion of poison.
Level 2 - Short Course ÂŁ84
Feline First Aid Accredited by LASER Ref. 126821 (3 Credits at Level 2)
This course has been written to give owners confidence when coping with the everyday injuries which their cat may suffer. It will also be of value to those running training classes, working in catteries, groomers, pet sitters/dog walkers/home boarders and pet shops where kittens and cats in their care may suffer injury or illness. In addition to coping with minor injuries, the student will learn to compare the signs of good health with signs of possible problems, to recognise pain signals and administer medication. The course also covers the essential actions necessary when coping with an emergency such as a road accident or the ingestion of poison.
Level 2 - Short Course ÂŁ84
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Natural Healing for Dogs and Cats This course teaches you how to utilize the natural abilities we all have. Healing helps to speed recovery from illness, accidents and all kinds of surgery. It is also a safe and gentle method for helping pets with behaviour problems. In addition you will be shown how to treat human friends and how to use self-healing to cope with health problems, stress and tiredness. The course will also teach how to practice healing professionally should you wish to do so. The course covers the following topics: what is healing; the benefits of healing; why pets need healing; what the healer may feel; what does the recipient feel; a quiet place to heal; channelling healing energy; the aura; working with chakras; positioning the hands; healing for a dying pet; what healing cannot do; owner support; taking a case history; keeping records; insurance and self-healing. The course takes two months to complete and you will be required to carry out some case studies in order to achieve your certificate
Level 2 - Short Course - £84
Complementary Therapies for Pets This Level 2 course introduces pet owners to natural therapies in the treatment of minor and acute ailments in their pets for recent research has indicated that some ‘natural’ remedies can play an important role in healing. The authors of this course emphasise that your veterinary surgeon should be the first ‘port of call’ but that general health and recovery can be greatly supported and improved by an understanding of alternative therapies. Designed and written by two specialists in the field, the course covers the principles behind the main branches of complementary therapy. Each unit has an appendix giving sources of remedies, material and where to obtain further information. The course is an Introduction- it does not provide a practitioner qualification. Course Content Unit 1: Introduction and overview Unit 2: Herbal remedies Unit 3: Aromatherapy Unit 4: Homeopathy Unit 5: Crystal healing Unit 6:Flower essence therapy
Level 2 - £300 - Instalment option available Page 54
Animal Care College - Prospectus
What to look for when choosing a College Your check list and questions should include: √
Are courses Accredited by a recognised external body? Check our web site - www.animalcarecollege.co.uk - for a link to the Department of Education’s ‘Ofqual’ site which lists all recognised accreditation bodies.
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Has the College been established for many years?
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How long have the courses you are interested been established?
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Does the College offer a flexible payments scheme or are you expected to pay all the fees ‘up front’ or pay with no ‘grace’ period to change your mind ?
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Can you change courses if the one you have chosen is not suitable - without an additional fee?
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Does the College provide useful careers advice?
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Can you study at your own place to enable you to fit your work around your life style?
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Does it have named tutors who are experienced in their field of study?
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Is there extensive tutorial help and support?
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Is advice given on what courses would suit your requirements?
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Does the College have many hundreds of satisfied students? The Animal Care College ticks all these boxes
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Animal Care College - Prospectus
Animal Care College Index House, Ascot. SL5 7ET 01344 636436 www.animalcarecollege.co.uk info@animalcarecollege.co.uk
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