Elements and Performance Criteria
- Identify common dog breeds
- Define the profile of dog breeds commonly held within facility, including appearance, nutrition, health and behavioural characteristics
- Identify physical characteristics of dogs using industry terminology
- Identify breeds of dogs using industry terminology
- Define, interpret and document breed, colours, markings and other identifying features
- Identify and evaluate behavioural and housing needs
- Identify indicators of animal comfort and normal behaviour
- Recognise signs of distress and report to supervisor
- Identify industry standards and guidelines for housing design, environmental factors and appropriate stocking densities
- Assess current animal housing design in relation to the welfare of the dogs kept and legislation requirements
- Identify and implement behavioural enrichment activities for specific dog
- Handle and restrain dogs
- Assist with health care needs
- Identify signs of good health in dogs
- Report signs of disease or other conditions to supervisor
- Identify general health maintenance and preventative treatment procedures and implement in line with level of job responsibility
- Identify options for health enrichment activities and implement as directed by supervisor
- Identify digestive system features and relate to dog-specific feeding routines and diets
- Identify preferred food sources and assess for quality and suitability
- Identify potential feeding hazards and implement risk control options
- Prepare food in accordance with dietary needs
- Distribute food and water according to schedule/feeding plan or animal requirements
- Maintain records