Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to calculate rations based on animal species needs and availability of foodstuffs.
The unit applies to individuals working under supervision in the animal care industry where it may be necessary to plan nutritional requirements for animals, including but not restricted to companion animals in pet shops, boarding kennels and catteries, dog and cat breeding establishments, research technology animals, native and exotic animals in zoos, wildlife parks and animal rescue and rehabilitation facilities.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
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. Identify nutritional requirements of animals | 1.1 Classify animals according to natural nutrient sources and types of digestive systems 1.2 Align normal feeding behaviours and nutritional requirements of a range of animals 1.3 Evaluate feeding strategies and methods to maximise activity and behavioural enrichment 1.4 Identify characteristics of under- or over-supply of nutrients, and evaluate methods used to monitor nutritional uptake |
2. Evaluate food sources and calculate dietary requirements | 2.1 Classify foodstuffs according to nutrient content 2.2 Evaluate foodstuffs for shelf life, preparation requirements, availability and cost 2.3 Identify hazards to animal and human health from food sources, and implement procedures to manage risks 2.4 Calculate feed weight and water requirements, based on animal profile 2.5 Calculate protein, carbohydrate, vitamin and mineral supplement and fibre needs, based on animal profile 2.6 Identify other dietary issues relevant to the animal's profile, and factor into dietary calculations 2.7 Prepare and document diet plans after supervisor approval and according to the organisation’s policies and procedures |
3. Prepare diets and provide food and water | 3.1 Prepare food as required by diet plan 3.2 Store food safely to avoid contamination 3.3 Provide food and water according to animal’s requirements |
4. Monitor feeding and watering practices | 4.1 Monitor and record food and water consumption according to the organisation’s policies and procedures 4.2 Identify and report abnormal feed intake or feeding behaviour according to the organisation’s policies and procedures 4.3 Monitor animals for condition, metabolic and behavioural changes 4.4 Evaluate reasons for poor response to diet and seek specialist advice 4.5 Determine required dietary changes in consultation with supervisor 4.6 Document dietary variations and update records as required |
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 |
Numeracy | Measure, interpret and record animal weight, length and other relevant objective indicators of change in physiological status |
Get the work done | Maintain the highest standards of hygiene and infection control at all times to reduce the risk of infection and cross-infection Problem-solve issues that arise with animal nutrition, and address them |
Sectors
General Animal Studies (GAS)