Course Content NCFE CQ Syllabus
Unit 1 – An Introduction to Animal Care and Legislation
In the opening unit, you’ll discover how domestic animals such as dogs have evolved alongside humans over thousands of years, along with how owning and taking care of a pet can help keep our bodies healthy. You’ll examine the factors to consider when choosing an animal, before moving on to relevant animal welfare legislation it’s important you’re familiar with, and the five main welfare needs of animals.
Unit 2 – The principles of animal biology
If you’ve a desire to work in animal care, it’s vital that you’re familiar with relevant anatomy and physiology, which you’ll cover in detail in this unit. You’ll study the structure of animal cells and tissue, the different types of cells that are found in animals’ bodies, along with typical blood, bone, and musculoskeletal composition. You’ll also learn about animal bodily systems, such as the nervous and the respiratory, and how they work in different species.
Unit 3 – Microbiology and Health
Next, it’s time to move on to the fascinating area of microbiology, along with how infection and disease can be spread and prevented. You’ll also learn about basic animal health and care, including the importance of microchipping, along with a range of diseases that are common in dogs and cats. Importantly, you’ll also discover the key hygiene principles when working with animals.
Unit 4 – Caring for cats and dogs
Working in animal care, you’ll spend a great deal of time with cats and dogs, so it’s important to be familiar with how to care for them. In unit four, you’ll learn about their nutritional needs, and how they may need to be altered for puppies and kittens, as well as pregnant dogs and cats. Next, you’ll discover how to restrain animals in a safe manner, the importance of regular grooming, and the differences in the coats of a variety of cats and dogs.
Unit 5 – Caring for other animals
By now, you’ll be a master at caring for cats and dogs, so it’s time to move on to the care needs of other animals commonly kept as pets, such as birds, fish, and reptiles.
