Farming
A course by
UCOL
Gain the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to maintain the welfare of companion animals such as cats, dogs, birds, and rabbits, and work in the animal care industry or prepare for further animal-related study.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
UCOL Manawatū, Palmerston North
It will take a total of 20 weeks
This course requires 42 hours per week

Demonstrate the ability to provide care for companion animals in an ethical, legal, and professional manner according to relevant codes and legislation.

Recognise breeds, apply safe handling, and carry out effective methods for restraint, training, and transportation of various companion animals.

Harness your love for animals and join the rewarding animal care industry with the UCOL New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Companion Animals) Level 3. This programme will equip you with the qualification needed to comply with regulatory requirements and relevant industry codes of practice. You'll learn to respond to normal and abnormal health and behaviour in animals and assist with their day-to-day care. The course blends face-to-face classes, online learning, and work placement experience.
What you need to know first
Open Entry if the delegated authority is satisfied that the applicant can complete the programme.

Animal Care
Veterinary Services
Pet Services
Animal Welfare

Pet store assistant
Animal rescue centre worker
Farming
A course by
UCOL
Gain the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to maintain the welfare of companion animals such as cats, dogs, birds, and rabbits, and work in the animal care industry or prepare for further animal-related study.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
UCOL Manawatū, Palmerston North
It will take a total of 20 weeks
This course requires 42 hours per week

Demonstrate the ability to provide care for companion animals in an ethical, legal, and professional manner according to relevant codes and legislation.

Recognise breeds, apply safe handling, and carry out effective methods for restraint, training, and transportation of various companion animals.

Harness your love for animals and join the rewarding animal care industry with the UCOL New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Companion Animals) Level 3. This programme will equip you with the qualification needed to comply with regulatory requirements and relevant industry codes of practice. You'll learn to respond to normal and abnormal health and behaviour in animals and assist with their day-to-day care. The course blends face-to-face classes, online learning, and work placement experience.
What you need to know first
Open Entry if the delegated authority is satisfied that the applicant can complete the programme.

Animal Care
Veterinary Services
Pet Services
Animal Welfare

Pet store assistant
Animal rescue centre worker
Use knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and preventative health care to maintain animal health and prevent disease.
All applicants must complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5 (no band lower than 5), or equivalent, for non-native speakers.
Pet groomer
Boarding and training facility assistant
Animal recreation business staff
General pet care roles
Use knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and preventative health care to maintain animal health and prevent disease.
All applicants must complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5 (no band lower than 5), or equivalent, for non-native speakers.
Pet groomer
Boarding and training facility assistant
Animal recreation business staff
General pet care roles