Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to develop, conduct and review training plans and programs for companion animals for their owners.
This unit applies to individuals working in the companion animal industry sector where training is required to modify undesirable behaviour traits for a range of breeds and species. This includes training conducted in group or one-on-one sessions with animals and their owners (clients) that takes place in public open spaces, in private residences or at agreed alternative venues. 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 apply to this unit at the time of publication.
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. Determine client’s needs | 1.1 Discuss and determine training needs with client 1.2 Conduct initial assessment of animal 1.3 Set short- and medium-term goals in conjunction with client 1.4 Offer referral to an animal behaviourist or other relevant persons if required |
2. Develop training plans | 2.1 Research behavioural traits and conditioning strategies for a range of breeds 2.2 Determine training strategies to achieve desirable behaviours for a range of breeds 2.3 Develop training plans to achieve desirable behaviours for a range of breeds |
3. Conduct training | 3.1 Select and use appropriate training equipment according to training plan 3.2 Explain initial training to client 3.3 Conduct training according to industry standards, animal welfare and ethics requirements 3.4 Maintain, hygienically clean and store training equipment according to workplace policies and procedures and manufacturers’ guidelines |
4. Conduct ongoing assessments | 4.1 Review progress of animal according to training plan and discuss with client 4.2 Review training plan and modify accordingly 4.3 Maintain training records according to industry standards |
5. Instruct client in ongoing management | 5.1 Discuss strategies to achieve short- and medium-term conditioning objectives 5.2 Provide advice on longer-term objectives to client 5.3 Provide advice to client on training plans, including dietary requirements, behavioural enrichment, exercise and maintenance |
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 concepts to people unfamiliar with those concepts, in terms that they understand Use open-ended questioning, active listening and paraphrases Sequence information logically for easy understanding |
Writing | Write training plans and strategies that can be followed by clients |
Reading | Research behaviours associated with breeds |
Sectors
Companion Animal Sector (CAS)