Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to follow animal health management practices to monitor animal health via daily observations of behaviour and condition.
This unit is applicable to those working in animal care industry sectors where it may be necessary to care for a range of animal species and to monitor the wellbeing of healthy, ill or injured animals by observing and measuring indicators of ideal and poor development or response to treatments. These animals may be being kept long-term in the workplace or being raised or prepared for sale, rehousing or release to their native habitat.
This unit applies to individuals who work under broad supervision and provide and communicate solutions to a range of predictable problems.
Regulatory requirements apply to this unit but vary according to state/territory jurisdictions. Users are advised to check with the relevant regulatory authority.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Follow animal health management practices | 1.1 Maintain personal health and hygiene standards 1.2 Identify animal diseases and their impact on animals and humans 1.3 Identify broad categories of parasitic infestations 1.4 Prepare and maintain quarantine areas in accordance with quarantine protocols 1.5 Identify and isolate animals requiring quarantine 1.6 Maintain quarantine records 1.7 Use and maintain personal protective equipment |
2. Monitor and maintain the physical wellbeing of animals | 2.1 Identify and examine different types of animals' anatomy and physiology to determine physical appearance and particular body structures, and record observations 2.2 Monitor and test indicators of animal health regularly, and follow quarantine requirements involving movement of animals within or between facilities 2.3 Assess the physical environment of animals for evidence of problems that may affect the physical wellbeing and welfare of animals 2.4 Maintain records of animal activity monitoring, and health information |
3. Identify and report signs of ill health or injury in animals | 3.1 Recognise signs of illness or injury and report to supervisor 3.2 Recognise abnormal animal behaviour and conditions and report to supervisor 3.3 Collect samples and record as directed 3.4 Separate sick or injured animals from other animals, as required, and care for as advised by supervisor or veterinarian 3.5 Handle animals that are ill or injured appropriately |
4. Administer and record animal treatments | 4.1 Administer authorised animal treatments under supervision, and record dosages 4.2 Monitor, administer and record routine preventative health treatments regularly 4.3 Store treatments appropriately according to workplace procedures 4.4 Complete records relating to the nature of treatment, and animal health status before and after treatment |
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 | Accurately interpret animal treatment plans |
Sectors
General Animal Studies (GAS)