The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively complete tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage tasks and manage contingencies in the context of the work role. This includes knowledge of:
legal and organisation requirements relating to dog health and population needs, including:
national, State/Territory and local health policies, goals, targets and priorities relevant to identifying health needs
scope of own role and responsibilities
key people or agency responsibilities
points of contact to assist with the implementation of strategies which are outside own area of responsibility
common dog diseases, including:
flea infestation
tick infestation
worm infestation
infected sores or wounds
mange
eye and ear infections
ringworm infection
hydatid tapeworm infection
hookworm infection
factors that can lead or contribute to dogs becoming unhealthy, including:
hungry dogs
too many dogs
dogs whose nutritional requirements are not met
dogs that are not properly groomed and checked regularly for conditions such as fleas, ticks, ringworms, sores and wounds
dogs that are not treated for conditions that may cause infection and affect their health
dogs without access to clean and/or dry shelter
dogs that are not wormed and immunised
potential health issues in relation to dogs and population health, including:
secondary injury as a result of bites from aggressive dogs
potential disease risks and infections from dog bites, including tetanus
community members giving food to dogs and going without themselves
dogs as vectors or carriers of disease, including when dog plays in sewage waste and then play or lick children
allergies due to dog mange causing or contributing to skin disease
gastrointestinal infections
roundworm and hookworm larval migration
the roles and responsibilities of community, dog owner, organisations and other key people or specialists in the implementation of the plan
strategies to monitor dog health and dog population in the community and to develop the necessary plans to address issues of concern, including:
dog owners and community education about various strategies in relation to caring for dogs, nutritional food sources, the provision of clean and dry shelter, checking dogs for fleas, ticks, wounds, sores, mange, eye and ear infections, immunising and worming dogs, washing dogs, and seeking help and support for sick dogs
reducing the number of internal and external parasites
dog sterilisation and contraception
euthanasia
cultural issues which may impact on strategies
culturally appropriate information provision
traditional and non-traditional responsibilities and benefits of owning a dog.