Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to provide assistance to experienced staff in the capture, restraint and assessment of animals and the preparation, application and documentation of treatments.
This unit applies to new entrants to the animal care and management industry. Animal care may occur in a wide variety of workplaces, including retail pet stores, kennels and catteries, shelters, veterinary practices, zoos, animal research facilities and others. In this context, individuals work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare to work with animals | 1.1 Confirm the task to be undertaken with supervisor, including identifying potential hazards, risks and welfare needs of the animal 1.2 Take steps to control risks and hazards as directed 1.3 Prepare equipment appropriate to the task 1.4 Select appropriate personal protective equipment and ensure correct fit |
2. Capture animal under supervision | 2.1 Identify animals to be treated and confirm with supervisor 2.2 Observe and note animal behaviour prior to capture 2.3 Confirm methods to be used to capture animals with supervisor 2.4 Confirm role of self and others in capture process 2.5 Approach cage appropriately and capture animal using appropriate method 2.6 Assist to move animal to inspection or treatment area |
3. Assist in assessment of animals | 3.1 Restrain animal appropriately 3.2 Determine external features and vital signs of animal health 3.3 Inspect animal’s general health and wellbeing, under supervision 3.4 Record observations of patient made by supervisor |
4. Assist in treatment of animals | 4.1 Determine treatment protocols for common health maintenance issues 4.2 Prepare equipment and supplies according to instructions 4.3 Provide assistance in the application of treatments 4.4 Document treatment on animal file 4.5 Complete post-treatment routines |
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 |
Navigate the world of work | Knowing industry codes and regulations relevant to the role |
Get the work done | Problem-solve issues that arise with capture and restraint |
Sectors
General Animal Studies (GAS)