New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Level 3) - Companion Animals
Farming
A course by
NorthTec
Learn how to care for companion animals in this entry-level qualification and gain skills for work in rescue centres, pet shops, groomers, kennels, catteries, and more.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
NorthTec, Whangārei
It will take a total of 6 months
Core skills this course teaches
Develop foundational skills in companion animal care
Gain basic knowledge and hands-on skills for caring for a range of companion animals, including health, hygiene, and behaviour.
Apply safe handling and animal management techniques
Learn how to safely approach, manage, and handle various species in a work or home environment.
Prepare for further animal-related study or employment
What You're Signing Up For
This entry-level programme provides foundational knowledge and skills in caring for companion animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, reptiles, and birds. The course covers animal health, hygiene, behaviour, and handling, and includes both online learning, block courses, and workplace experience. It provides a pathway to roles such as animal care attendant, dog groomer, or further study in fields such as veterinary nursing or zookeeping.
Course Content
- Care standards and health of companion animals
- Hygiene and animal facility practices
- Animal behaviour and safe handling
- Work experience in an approved external animal care facility
- Block courses for hands-on learning
- Responsibility in pet and animal ownership
What you need to know first
Must be at least 16 years old by programme start date
Able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal care
Veterinary
Companion animal services
Future employment opportunities might be
Animal Care Attendant
Pet Groomer
Dog Groomer