ACMCAS406
Manage companion animal breeding


Application

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan for and monitor companion animal mating and breeding programs and evaluating outcomes.

This unit applies to individuals working as senior supervisors or managers in a companion animal facility where animal breeding is conducted. These individuals analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems.

No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.

NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.


Elements and Performance Criteria

Elements

Performance Criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Assess breeding requirements

1.1 Assess and clarify breeding requirements according to organisational objectives

1.2 Identify and obtain resources to support breeding requirements

1.3 Select breeding options to optimise results and consistency

1.4 Formulate breeding programs to meet organisation objectives

1.5 Develop organisational procedures for breeding according to legislative requirements, industry standards, animal welfare and safe workplace and environmentally responsible practices

2. Select animals for breeding

2.1 Select animals for mating according to the requirements of the breeding program, animal welfare regulations and ethical practice principles

2.2 Schedule examinations and tests as required to confirm suitability of selected animals for breeding program

2.3 Select and apply appropriate breeding systems according to the requirements of the breeding program

2.4 Apply appropriate mating methods according to the breeding program

3. Monitor breeding programs

3.1 Communicate breeding program strategies and procedures to staff and provide training as necessary

3.2 Identify potential risks to animals during breeding, birth and early life

3.3 Evaluate the options for managing risks according to WHS, and make preparations in case of emergencies

3.4 Monitor implementation of breeding programs for efficiency and effectiveness according to the requirements of the breeding program

3.5 Prioritise and implement changes necessary to achieve breeding aims

4. Evaluate breeding programs

4.1 Review and evaluate breeding program processes and outcomes against the organisation's objectives, and update breeding plans as required

4.2 Assess and update criteria used to select animals for breeding to meet the requirements of the breeding programs

4.3 Maintain breeding records according to industry standards and breeding program requirements

Foundation Skills

This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.

Skill

Description

Oral communication

Explain breeding strategies and procedures to staff

Get the work done

Carry out breeding risk analysis, problem solving and planning requirements


Sectors

Companion Animal Sector (CAS)