Learning Outcomes

1.1 Assess environment and establish a safe and secure environment for interacting with animals according to workplace policies and procedures

1.2 Obtain information about the animal from relevant sources to inform approach to animal

1.3 Identify hazards and infection control procedures, and minimise risks to self, other people and animals

1.4 Select and correctly fit personal protective equipment appropriate for animal interaction

1.5 Prepare equipment for securing the animal if required

2.1 Identify animal by species or breed group, physical characteristics and visible identification

2.2 Recognise common behavioural traits for the species or breed group

2.3 Observe animal body language and other signs to interpret the animal's likely emotional state, arousal level, and likely motivations for the behaviour observed

2.4 Identify individual animal triggers, stressors or species-specific behaviours that may impact on behaviour and pose potential safety risks

2.5 Choose appropriate low stress handling techniques based on observation of the animal's behaviour

3.1 Check other animals are safe and secure prior to moving the animal

3.2 Approach and move around animal in a calm and non-threatening manner

3.3 Move animal or remove from enclosure using low stress handling techniques

3.4 Secure animal safely in suitable environment using humane restraints, if required, according to workplace requirements

3.5 Prepare and load animal for transport, where required, ensuring safe restraints or housing according to species and workplace requirements

4.1 Use species-appropriate low stress techniques and equipment to safely secure, position and manage animal

4.2 Adjust handling based on situation, individual animal and its responses to being handled

4.3 Undertake intended activity ensuring personal and animal safety, and minimising animal stress

4.4 Follow workplace procedures for hygiene and sanitation after handling the animal

4.5 Provide feedback, using objective descriptions of animal behaviour, to relevant team members according to workplace procedures

4.6 Update animal records in workplace record-keeping system

1.1 Identify issues relating to animal welfare and ethics in animal work environments

1.2 Investigate current animal welfare assessment frameworks or models relevant to own workplace

1.3 Identify key compliance requirements of state/territory legislation and codes of practice relevant to the workplace and sector

2.1 Identify and select a workplace or sector specific tool to assess the welfare of an animal

2.2 Identify environmental factors that impact on animal welfare and their effects

2.3 Observe animal behaviours and assess the likely emotional state of the animal based on physical, behavioural and environmental factors

2.4 Record observations and determine the animal's welfare status using a workplace or sector specific tool

3.1 Review outcomes recorded on the animal welfare assessment

3.2 Identify strategies to address any identified factors impacting negatively on the welfare of the animal

3.3 Identify opportunities to improve the animals’ emotional state and quality of life

3.4 Record suggested improvement actions and likely impact and measures of success

4.1 Seek assistance from supervisor, experts or team members to review suggested improvement actions and potential consequences of change

4.2 Provide information to relevant stakeholders on the welfare assessment of the animal

1.1 Identify local animal management regulations applicable to dogs in the community

1.2 Assess hazards to self and dog/s, relating to walking and exercise activities, and determine measures to minimise risks

1.3 Identify workplace procedures for responding to emergencies or incidents

1.4 Establish or implement a workplace system for identifying each dog and keeping records

2.1 Identify client and/or workplace and animal exercise requirements

2.2 Obtain information on dog, including medical conditions, health and vaccination status, and behavioural concerns

2.3 Assess basic health, emotional state and physical capability of the dog to undertake exercise, and advise client or workplace of any issues

2.4 Confirm arrangements for services, schedule and location

2.5 Organise walking equipment, waste bags, water supply, enrichment and positive reinforcement items, and other supplies if required

2.6 Select, check and correctly fit dog walking equipment

2.7 Assess dog compatibility if activity involves more than one dog

2.8 Collect dog/s and handle and secure using safe, low stress techniques

3.1 Establish suitable walking route for on-lead activities

3.2 Reinforce training relating to walking on lead, including use of lead, positioning dog, speed and direction, and visual and verbal cues

3.3 Monitor interactions with other dogs and people and reinforce calm, socially healthy responses towards other dogs and unfamiliar people at all times

3.4 Use management and training techniques to optimise positive welfare outcomes for dog/s at all times

4.1 Return dog/s according to agreed arrangements

4.2 Handle and dispose of dog waste according to local and environmental regulations

4.3 Clean, sanitise and store equipment and transport, where used, according to workplace requirements

4.4 Maintain log of activities and records according to workplace requirements

4.5 Organise payment information according to workplace procedures as required