Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to provide hydro-bathing services for companion animals, following industry recognised bathing procedures.
The unit applies to individuals working in companion animal facilities where hydro-bathing services are provided at a fixed location, or in a mobile operation. These individuals work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
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. Assess bathing requirements | 1.1 Establish coat type and bathing needs with client 1.2 Assess animal’s coat length and condition, including condition of its ears, eyes and toenails in relation to its age and breed 1.3 Provide animal condition report to client and advice regarding maintenance regimes for the animal's coat or condition |
2. Prepare and bathe animal | 2.1 Determine risks associated with bathing nominated animal and minimise risk according to WHS and animal welfare requirements 2.2 Prepare bathing facilities and equipment 2.3 Restrain animal for bathing and monitor for signs of distress 2.4 Brush animal prior to, during, or after bathing to remove dead skin, knots and loose hair 2.5 Select appropriate water temperature, shampoos and supplementary treatments, including external parasite treatment when required, according to the animals coat type and skin condition 2.6 Bathe, rinse and dry animal according to industry recognised bathing and drying techniques |
3. Complete bathing procedures | 3.1 Restrain animal safely and manage until owner's arrival 3.2 Clean and disinfect hydro-bath and associated equipment according to workplace policies and procedures 3.3 Dispose of waste according to legislative requirements 3.4 Check consumables and other equipment and return to storage, audit supplies and document 3.5 Document bathing services provided for invoicing 3.6 Return animal to owner, review bathing services and discuss any follow-up requirements |
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 |
Oral communication | Discuss bathing and preferences with the client |
Reading | Review and comprehend product information on shampoo, parasite treatment and other products |
Numeracy | Dilution ratios |
Writing | Keeping records |
Sectors
Companion Animal Sector (CAS)