Animal Care Aide

The Animal Care Aide program in Comox Valley on Vancouver Island prepares you for entry-level employment in animal care facilities, including veterinary clinics, hospitals, animal recovery centres, shelters, kennels and specialty animal businesses. You will learn to provide assistance and support as part of a dedicated team of professionals in the field of animal care and will gain understanding of animal behaviours, nutrition, wellness, handling and basic care procedures to be a valued member of an animal care team.

Six instructor-led courses include hands-on sessions and work experience in veterinary clinics and/or specialized facilities. The program is part-time, allowing you to add to your qualifications while maintaining other commitments. Courses have been developed in close consultation with industry professionals to ensure that, upon graduation, you will have the skills and knowledge to work in the animal care field.

While the program emphasizes small animal care in hospital/clinical settings, the training is valuable and easily transferable to other animal care settings. It is intended for individuals with no previous or formal training, but courses have been designed to help existing staff and volunteers who wish to upgrade their skills.