Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (RQF)

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (RQF)

Key Points 

• Gain an industry recognised hydrotherapy qualification
• Includes 5 days of practical training with industry professionals
• Benefit from exclusive content on Practical Aquatic Treadmill Therapy and Advanced Treadmill Techniques
• Prepare for employment or self employment within the small animal hydrotherapy sector
• Meets the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) membership requirements

Overview 

The Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy has been designed in consultation with industry professionals and covers the key practices of hydrotherapy and how to provide them. 

The comprehensive course content will expand your understanding of animal behaviour, anatomy and biology. As well as making sure you’re well-versed in hydrotherapy best practices, legislation and treatment. You will learn how to analyse and handle patients in order to plan and administer hydrotherapy effectively. In addition, you’ll also learn how to correctly inform and educate pet owners on the animal’s performance and management of aftercare.   

This Ofqual approved qualification includes 5 days of practical training alongside experienced and qualified hydrotherapists and physiotherapists within a choice of rehabilitation centres. This will give you the opportunity to learn pool therapy techniques with a variety of patients. You will also learn how to manage correct water chemistry and regular equipment maintenance.

Once you’re qualified, you’ll have gained the knowledge and expertise to pursue a career as an animal hydrotherapist or even to set up your own business. Combine your passion for animal care with a practical skillset that can be used to start a fulfilling new career.  

This qualification also meets the requirements for membership with the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA).

Getting Started 

learndirect is one of the UK’s leading online course providers. Our online courses give you the flexibility to progress with your learning at the ideal time for you.  

No matter what your current schedule is, online learning works around you. So, you’re able to get back into education regardless of any other commitments.  

The only date you’ll need to keep in mind is when you book the practical element of the course. Please note, course fees must be paid in full prior to booking the practical placement. 

You’ll gain essential knowledge on the fundamentals of hydrotherapy best practices and other animal care essentials such as first aid. With no classes to attend or timetable to stick to, you’re in control of the pace and place of your learning. 

What’s more, we have dedicated and experienced online tutors to support you throughout your course. As well as all the material being readily available as soon as you enrol so you’re able to start right away. 

Modules

The course consists of 13 units.

Unit 1: Introduction to Small Animal Hydrotherapy

• Be able to understand the concept of hydrotherapy and its benefits
• Know the properties of water
• Be able to understand hydrotherapy equipment
• Know health and safety related to hydrotherapy
• Know legislation relating to hydrotherapy

Unit 2: Administration in a Hydrotherapy Centre  

• Be able to understand and identify professional conduct within a hydrotherapy centre
• Be able to understand continual professional development
• Know the roles and responsibilities of a hydrotherapy team
• Know the members of a multidisciplinary team
• Know the administration procedures in a hydrotherapy centre

Unit 3: Assessing Suitability of Animals for Hydrotherapy

• Know the importance of veterinary referral for hydrotherapy
• Be able to understand patient suitability for hydrotherapy
• Be able to understand health checking animals

Unit 4: Conditions Presented for Small Animal Hydrotherapy  

• Know small animal orthopaedic conditions
• Know small animal medical conditions associated with hydrotherapy
• Know small animal neurological conditions associated with hydrotherapy
• Be able to understand the management of conditions associated with hydrotherapy for small animals
• Know the improvements that hydrotherapy can have on a small animal

Unit 5: Practical Skills in Small Animal Hydrotherapy  

• Be able to carry out initial assessment of small animal patients
• Be able to prepare the area and small animal patient for hydrotherapy treatment
• Be able to conduct hydrotherapy sessions in the pool for small animal patients
• Be able to provide aftercare for small animal patients after hydrotherapy
• Be able to communicate to the wider multidisciplinary team following patient hydroptherapy

Unit 6: First Aid for Small Animals  

• Be able to understand the aims of first aid
• Be able to understand the management of different types of first aid emergencies
• Be able to perform first aid on animals

Unit 7: Water Maintenance, Balance and Testing  

• Be able to understand water plant equipment maintenance
• Know the chemical balance and testing of water
• Be able to understand water testing

Unit 8: Small Animal Behaviour and Body Structure  

• Be able to understand the body language of small animals
• Be able to identify the behaviour of small animals
• Know the structure and function of a small animal

Unit 9: Small Animal Biomechanics and Gait  

• Be able to understand terminology used in hydrotherapy
• Know patterns of gait
• Know normal and abnormal postures
• Be able to understand muscle contraction

Unit 10: Understanding Small Animal Massage 

• Be able to understand the benefits and impacts of small animal massage
• Be able to understand different massage techniques used for small animals
• Be able to understand alternative forms of massage used for small animals

Unit 11: Small Animal Anatomy and Physiology

• Be able to identify the systems, structures and functions of a small animal body
• Know the structure and function of small animal body tissues
• Be able to understand the anatomy and physiology of small animal joints
• Be able to understand the tissue healing process

Unit 12: Practical Aquatic Treadmill Treatment  

• Be able to understand factors that may affect patients in the aquatic treadmill
• Know how to assess suitability of patients for the aquatic treadmill
• Know how to use an aquatic treadmill to its full capacity
• Be able to conduct aquatic treadmill sessions

Unit 13: Practical Advanced Aquatic Treadmill Treatment  

• Know the equipment used for advanced aquatic treadmill therapy
• Be able to understand the importance of gait analysis when using treadmill therapy
• Be able to apply a range of advanced aquatic treadmill techniques
• Be able to carry out performance reviews

Entry Requirements

Learners must be aged 16 or above. There are no entry requirements for this qualification however, it is expected that learners will have a working knowledge of at least Level 2 with good working levels of English and Maths. Due to the practical elements of this qualification, it is advantageous to have good physical mobility and physical fitness and to be a confident swimmer.  

Minimum Age Restriction 

16 

Average Completion Timeframe 

You have 24 months to complete your course. 

Assessment Requirements 

Assessment will take the form of a range of in-depth theory assessments for each unit along with a practical assessment taken during the practical placement. 

Placement or Practical Required 

Mandatory practical at a placement centre. Please note, course fees must be paid in full prior to booking the practical placement.  

If Placement or Practical Required, When? 

Placements are run several times a year at a variety of locations. Placements are booked once the threshold criteria have been met according to availability.

This qualification includes theory and practical training: The theory element is studied online, at your own pace and with full tutor support. The practical training is carried out in partnership with our training providers - with excellent reputations and outstanding teaching staff, providing individual training placements and ensuring excellent outcomes for our students.

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy placements are being done in Northamptonshire.

Certification Timeframe

On completion of their studies, learners can expect their certification within 6 months following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance assessment. 

Course Fees 

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered. 

Assessment will take the form of a range of in-depth theory assessments for each unit along with a practical assessment taken during the practical placement. 

When Are You Assessed? 

As you’re in control of the pace at which you learn, you’re also in charge of when you hand in your assignments. This enables you to take as long as you need to thoroughly understand the unit before completing any assignments.   

SEG Awards

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Ofqual number: 610/3571/3). 

Skills and Education Group Awards offer qualifications and assessments which are regulated by CCEA, Ofqual and Qualifications Wales. They are driven by delivering a high-quality and trusted service to Centres and learners, so that everyone gets the education they deserve.

Career 

Once you have gained the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotheraypy, you can choose to enter the workforce as a qualified Small Animal Hydrotherapist in centres equipped with pools and aquatic treadmills. You may also choose to pursue additional related qualifications in the Animal Care sector for further expertise. 

You may even consider establishing your own animal hydrotherapy business, offering franchise opportunities across the UK for aspiring entrepreneurs. 

Companies everywhere are on the lookout for qualified Small Animal Hydrotherapists and having this respected qualification means that you’re highly employable. Plus, the qualification meets the requirements for membership with the Canine Hydrotherapy Association.

Frequently Asked Questions