OverviewAbout this course
Learn how to confidently care for animals in this introductory veterinary nursing course. Perform basic vet nursing duties and treat animals under supervision. Recognise signs of illness, injury and disease and safely restrain and handle animals.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Recognise signs of illness, injury or disease in animals and seek veterinarian advice
Treat animals under veterinary supervision, including performing basic physical exams, gathering vital signs and medicating animals
Engage in safe animal handling, including initial behaviour assessment, correct animal approach, restraint and release
Calculate drug dosages, correctly store veterinary pharmaceuticals, order and receive stock
Perform basic duties for veterinary nurses, including bandaging, proper laboratory sample collection and handling and equipment set up
Implement infection control and quarantine procedures, and clean and disinfect animal housing and treatment areas
Course outcomes
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally accredited Statement of Attainment
Credit towards a full qualification
The skills and knowledge to perform basic veterinary duties and treat animals under veterinary supervision
Exposure to industry professionals and access to a network of peers
A strong pathway to complete further study in veterinary nursing
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
Some courses require evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
- There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You can enrol today.
Completion requirements
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
Entry recommendations
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
A passion for animals and their welfare
A basic knowledge of general animal care and husbandry
A reasonable level of fitness to handle animals and carry out manual lifting
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like: animal care receptionist, animal care attendant at a shelter, boarding facility or pet store with the Certificate II or Certificate III in Animal Care Services, animal welfare worker with the Certificate III in Animal Care Services and veterinary nurse with the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study2 Courses
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
Further study1 Course
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Related study4 Courses
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
Your experience counts
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
Maintain and monitor animal health and wellbeingACMGEN311
Communicate effectively with clients and team membersACMGEN315
Comply with infection control policies and procedures in animal care workACMINF301
Carry out daily practice routinesACMVET202
TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
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