Pet Project: Hi-Tech Dog Mannequin Enhances Training for TAFE NSW Kingscliff Students

By Jeff Gibbs

A cutting-edge and eerily lifelike canine mannequin is providing aspiring veterinary nurses at TAFE NSW Kingscliff with invaluable hands-on experience. The newly arrived mannequin, imported from the US and affectionately named Barbara, is helping animal studies and veterinary nursing students practice essential clinical skills such as intubation, intravenous catheterization, venipuncture, CPR, bandaging, and ear cleaning.

Gemma Holland, an animal studies teacher at TAFE NSW Kingscliff and a local veterinarian, highlighted the benefts of using the mannequin in training. “Veterinary simulation mannequins like Barbara allow students to practice and refne their skills without the pressure and risk of working on live animals.

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This is especially useful in TAFE NSW Animal Care courses, including the Certifcate IV in Veterinary Nursing, where students must demonstrate practical skills,” Ms. Holland said. “Simulators provide a realistic model for students to familiarize themselves with processes and procedures before they undertake these tasks on real animals during work placements.”

Barbara is equipped with features such as veins, imitation blood, earwax, and feedback monitors that indicate proper technique. For example, a green light signals that students are performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) correctly. “Students are rarely involved in emergencies during work placements, so this training allows them to practice frst aid and CPR in a controlled environment before facing real-life emergencies,” Ms. Holland added.

The arrival of the mannequin comes at a crucial time for veterinary nursing students. With more pets than people in Australia and a growing demand for veterinary services, Jobs and Skills Australia predicts that the number of vet nursing jobs will surge to 17,800 by 2026.

Phoebe Viscardi, a 38-year-old student at TAFE NSW Kingscliff, recently transitioned from a career in aged care to veterinary nursing. She balances her studies in the Certifcate IV in Veterinary Nursing with working as a veterinary nurse. Phoebe emphasized the value of the practical training she has received, saying, “Practicing on a canine mannequin closely mimics working on a real animal. You simply can’t gain the same skills working on a stuffed animal. Barbara is lifelike and even has joints that anatomically resemble a real dog. I enjoy how hands-on the course is, and the equipment at TAFE NSW Kingscliff is world-class.”

This innovative training tool is helping to prepare students for the demands of the veterinary profession, ensuring they are confdent and capable in their newfound careers.

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