New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Companion Animals) (Level 3)

Waikato Institute of Technology

This programme is a starting point for those interested in caring for animals in environments such as pet stores, animal rescue centres, and boarding or day-care facilities.This is a practical programme including 80 hours of work placement at Wintec Animal House. Work placement during the semester assists students in gaining confidence, and builds their industry networks for future employment.Alongside the practical elements of the programme, students will also attend classes where they will learn animal care theory. Students will be in class four days a week from 8am-5pm, and will also be required to undertake self-directed study.Study topics include:Animal biologyAnimal hygiene and healthRoutine animal careAnimal welfare and ethicsStudents will get daily opportunities for care and experience in the handling of companion animals at the Wintec Animal House, a purpose-built facility that houses commonly kept companion animals in New Zealand.