National Certificate in Animal Care

This qualification recognises the core knowledge and skills required by people working in various sectors of the animal care and handling industry. Sectors might include veterinary practices, animal laboratories, pet shops, kennels and catteries, animal welfare agencies such as the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), zoological and wildlife parks, and search and rescue services. Holders of the qualification are able to:
. demonstrate knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology, behaviour, and husbandry
. recognise signs of health, ill-health, and problem behaviour in specific animal groups
. handle, transport, and provide emergency first aid to companion animals
. demonstrate and apply knowledge of safe working practices and animal facility environment hygiene
. demonstrate knowledge of standards for ethical behaviour in relation to animals
. demonstrate a range of other knowledge and skills related to a specific animal care and/or handling role.

The flexible structure of the qualification allows a high degree of portability between sectors of the animal care and handling industry. People with a special area of interest such as boarding kennels or pet shops can select elective standards that are relevant to their sector.

The rules in Elective A are set with the intention that candidates will choose 'monitoring health and providing husbandry' standards for both cats and dogs and for at least one other group of animals; or choose one of cats or dogs, and at least two other groups of animals. To allow this to occur, standards 5148 and 7337 have been included in Set A as well as Set B of Elective A.

This qualification may lead to other animal care and handling qualifications, including the National Certificate in Veterinary Nursing [Ref: 0221], which is at Level 5. All the standards listed in the National Certificate in Animal Care [Ref: 0241] are also listed in the National Certificate in Veterinary Nursing.

This qualification may also lead on to the proposed National Certificate in Animal Care (Rural Animal Technician) with strands in Production Animals, and Equine.

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

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