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Basic First Aid for Animals

Short Course

When every second counts, will you know what to do?

In an emergency, animals can’t tell us what’s wrong, they rely entirely on the humans around them. This course empowers you with the confidence and practical skills to step in when it matters most.

You’ll learn how to recognise the early signs of distress, assess dangerous situations, and provide immediate first aid to stabilise an animal until veterinary care is available. From responding calmly under pressure to safely transporting an injured animal, you’ll gain the tools to act quickly, responsibly and compassionately.

Whether you’re working in a clinic, kennel, shelter, grooming salon or on a farm, first aid knowledge doesn’t just save lives, it sets you apart. Employers value professionals who can stay calm in a crisis and take decisive action. These skills strengthen your capability, build trust with clients and colleagues, and expand your career opportunities across the animal industry.

Because in those critical moments, your knowledge could be the difference between panic and purpose or even life and loss.

What topics are covered in this course?

  • Recognising Emergency Situations – Learn basic animal first aid steps to safely assist an injured patient before veterinary care.
  • Hazards in an Emergency – Explore how to first assess scene safety for all hazards before approaching any injured animal.
  • Basic First Aid Procedures – Discover a range of common emergencies, including some requiring some basic first aid prior to arrival at a veterinary clinic.
  • Transporting to the Veterinary Clinic – Learn the protocol for calling a clinic and safe transport methods for injured animals.

Inclusions

Included in the course fees:

  • 12 weeks of online access to complete your course.
    • Extensions are available for when life gets busy.
  • Access to Educators via phone, zoom & email. We’re here to help you!
  • Printed Learner’s Guide and reading materials included
  • Access to our Online Learning Centre for additional resources including videos, documents, interactive e-learning presentations and more
  • Range of self-test activities to check your learning and receive feedback
  • Certificate of Achievement upon passing

Important Notes:

  • This short course is a non-accredited professional development course.
  • Assessment of knowledge is conducted throughout your course.
  • Learning materials are provided in English only.

FAQ

What is the format of the Short Course?
The course blends self-paced reading and recorded lectures with online MCQ-style assessments and short written tasks that help develop practical documents for clinical use.

What materials and resources are included in the course?
Participants receive a printed learner’s guide containing readings, notes, and instructions, along with online access to additional readings, useful resources, recorded lectures, and videos.

Is there a certificate awarded upon completion of the course?
Yes, all participants who complete the course and its activities receive a Certificate of Achievement and earn 5 CPD points.

How much time should participants expect to dedicate to this course weekly?
Participants should allocate approximately 5 hours per week to easily complete the course in the 3 month timeframe.

Are there any prerequisites required to enrol in this course?
No specific prerequisites are required, but the course assumes a knowledge level equivalent to that of someone who has been working with animals for at least 12 months.

What support is available to participants during the course?
Support is available via phone, email, and Zoom appointments with our Educators.

How are assessments conducted throughout the course?
Assessments include MCQ or drag-and-drop tasks that are auto-marked, with unlimited attempts allowed.

What are the technical requirements to participate in the online components of the course?
Participants need reliable internet access (such as NBN) and a computer. While mobile devices are supported, using a computer is recommended for easier access to reading and viewing online resources.