ICTQual Level 3 Diploma | Canine First Aid Certification
The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid is a professionally recognised qualification designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to respond effectively to emergency situations involving dogs. As canine welfare and responsible pet care continue to gain importance, this course provides vital training for individuals who work with or care for dogs and need the confidence to act quickly and correctly in critical situations.
This qualification covers key areas of canine first aid, including assessing injured or ill dogs, managing wounds, controlling bleeding, dealing with fractures, shock, poisoning, burns, and common medical emergencies. Learners also gain an understanding of canine anatomy, health and safety procedures, and the legal and ethical responsibilities associated with providing first aid to animals. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to ensure learners can confidently deliver immediate care while waiting for veterinary assistance.
The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid is ideal for animal care professionals, dog handlers, trainers, groomers, kennel staff, breeders, pet sitters, and responsible dog owners. On completion, learners gain a recognised qualification that enhances professional credibility and supports high standards of animal welfare.
Key Information
The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid is a practical, intensive 3-day training programme designed to equip learners with essential skills to respond effectively to canine emergencies. Comprising three focused units, the course provides comprehensive knowledge on canine anatomy and physiology, first aid procedures, and emergency response techniques for dogs of all breeds and ages.
Learners study core areas including recognizing signs of illness or injury, performing CPR, managing wounds and fractures, handling choking incidents, and understanding vital signs. The programme also covers safe handling practices and preventative care to minimise risks in everyday situations.
Assessment is based on demonstrating both practical competence and underpinning knowledge, ensuring learners can apply first aid techniques safely and responsibly. The qualification supports consistent standards of canine welfare across animal care environments.
Unit Structure
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Canine Anatomy, Physiology, and Common Health Issues
- Emergency First Aid Techniques and Canine Life-Saving Procedures
- Professional Practice, Safety, and Legal Responsibilities in Canine First Aid
Recommended For
The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid is designed for anyone who wants to develop practical skills and confidence in handling canine emergencies. It is suitable for:
- Dog owners who wish to ensure the safety, health, and wellbeing of their pets, enabling them to act quickly and appropriately in case of accidents or sudden illness.
- Pet groomers seeking to enhance their professional skill set by learning essential first aid techniques to manage emergencies during grooming sessions.
- Dog walkers, trainers, and pet sitters who interact with dogs regularly and need the knowledge to respond effectively to injuries, choking, or sudden medical situations.
- Animal welfare and rescue centre staff who care for dogs on a daily basis and require formal training to provide safe and immediate first aid support.
- Veterinary assistants or support staff looking to supplement their practical experience with certified first aid knowledge to better support veterinary teams.
- Anyone interested in canine care and wishing to acquire practical, hands-on first aid skills to manage emergencies confidently and responsibly.
This course is ideal for individuals who want to combine theoretical knowledge with practical techniques, ensuring dogs in their care receive prompt and effective first aid when needed.
What You’ll Be Able to Do
Canine Anatomy, Physiology, and Common Health Issues
- Understand the basic anatomy and physiological systems of dogs.
- Identify normal and abnormal behavior indicating potential health problems.
- Recognize common health issues and medical conditions affecting dogs.
- Understand how age, breed, and size can influence a dog’s health and first aid needs.
- Learn to assess vital signs, including heart rate, respiration, and temperature.
- Recognize signs of pain, distress, or illness in dogs.
- Understand how injuries or illness impact overall canine physiology.
- Develop awareness of preventative measures to reduce risks of injury or illness.
Emergency First Aid Techniques and Canine Life-Saving Procedures
- Learn to respond effectively to canine emergencies and injuries.
- Gain practical skills in performing CPR on dogs of different sizes.
- Understand how to manage choking, bleeding, fractures, and shock.
- Learn safe handling and restraint techniques during first aid procedures.
- Develop competence in assessing and prioritizing injuries in emergency situations.
- Understand post-emergency care and monitoring until veterinary help is available.
- Recognize when and how to seek professional veterinary assistance.
- Build confidence in applying first aid skills in real-life scenarios.
Professional Practice, Safety, and Legal Responsibilities in Canine First Aid
- Understand the legal responsibilities and ethical considerations when providing canine first aid.
- Learn professional conduct standards in animal care and emergency situations.
- Develop effective communication skills with pet owners, colleagues, and veterinary staff.
- Understand hygiene, infection control, and safety measures during first aid.
- Recognize the importance of record-keeping and documentation of incidents.
- Learn to manage risks to ensure safety for both the dog and handler.
- Develop awareness of continuous professional development and best practice guidelines.
- Build confidence in providing first aid within the scope of training while maintaining animal welfare standards.
