GOTAFE introduces new Animal Care Services qualification

The Certificate III in Animal Care Services (ACM30121) is a broad industry qualification and replaces the Certificate III in Pet Grooming (ACM30617) and the Certificate III in Companion Animal Services (ACM30417).

The new course will provide students with comprehensive skills and training to work in a range of roles in animal care facilities and services including boarding, breeding, shelters, pet grooming, pet sitting, and other animal businesses.

GOTAFE Director of Services and Natural Environment, Andrew McGranahan said “We’re excited to deliver the new Animal Care Services qualification, which has been specifically developed to address the changing needs of the sector.

“Students will learn practical skills such as how to assess the welfare status of an animal, provide advice on general animal care, basic animal first aid, workplace health and safety, communication skills, and promoting wellbeing in the workplace.

Students undertaking the Certificate III in Animal Care Services (ACM30121) course will be able to specialise in Animal Care or Pet Grooming through elective study units.

Recent graduate, Rachel Trusler studied Pet Grooming at GOTAFE and is now working at a dog grooming salon in suburban Melbourne.

“What I found rewarding about the course was learning new skills,” she said. “My dream job is to look after rescue animals and animals that are recovering from injuries,” she said.

Rachel studied at GOTAFE’s Wallan campus in a small class, which allowed for one-on-one training. She developed skills including brushing, clipping, hydro-bathing, drying and trimming nails, and the ability to work on a dog from start to finish, which she now does at work.

“I liked studying at GOTAFE because everyone is so nice, friendly, and helpful,” Rachel added.