Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to provide advice to clients on the appropriate selection of companion animals, and on their housing, nutritional and other general care requirements.
This unit applies to individuals who work in pet shops, boarding kennels and catteries, companion animal training, grooming or breeding establishments, mobile animal facilities and veterinary practices. This unit applies to individuals who take responsibility for their own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Provide information and advice on companion animal selection | 1.1 Use interpersonal skills effectively to engage clients and identify their requirements 1.2 Provide information on the characteristics of different breeds and species of animals 1.3 Provide advice on the suitability of the selected animal to meet client’s requirements |
2. Advise on housing and environmental requirements | 2.1 Discuss appropriate housing and shelter requirements for the selected animal 2.2 Explain set-up and maintenance of housing, and demonstrate if required 2.3 Provide advice on the introduction of animals to a new environment |
3. Advise on health and nutritional requirements | 3.1 Discuss the animal’s health requirements with the client 3.2 Provide information on preventative health measures for the selected animal 3.3 Explain the dietary requirements for the selected animal 3.4 Explain the grooming requirements for the selected animal |
4. Advise on additional products and services | 4.1 Display and demonstrate products as required by client 4.2 Discuss and demonstrate additional equipment and related services as required 4.3 Arrange transportation of animal or provide instructions to client |
5. Complete transactions | 5.1 Complete sales of animals and products according to workplace policies and procedures 5.2 Ensure compliance with legislative requirements for the sale or transportation of the selected animal 5.3 Maintain records and follow up with client according to workplace policies and procedures |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Reading | Summarise product information for clients Access information about breeds and nutritional needs |
Numeracy skills | Accurately calculate prices and change Record sales information |
Sectors
Companion Animal Sector (CAS)