Study animal care online at your own pace and earn an ICOES-accredited certificate in 6 months.
Study animal care online at your own pace and earn an ICOES-accredited certificate in 6 months.
Practical, job-relevant skills for these roles. As a professional development course, it builds capability in this field rather than guaranteeing a specific role or salary.
Possible career directions only; no specific job, salary or outcome is guaranteed. Where you go depends on your experience, the employer and your location.
Introduction to Animal Care
Anatomy and Physiology
Husbandry of Dogs
Husbandry of Other Species
Common Diseases of Dogs
Common Diseases of Other Species
First Aid, Accidents and Emergencies
Handling and Safety
Veterinary Health Care and Procedures
Training and Behaviour
What you’ll typically need to get started.
Requirements can vary by intake and pathway, so submit an enquiry to confirm what applies to you.
Courses are accredited by ICOES and the CPD Standards Office, and The Career Academy is a member of the International Approval & Recognition Council (IARC).
Unlimited access to tutor support during business hours via phone and email from industry expert tutors.
100% online course with 6 months access, study whenever suits you with no exams.
Upon enrolment, receive instant access to the Career Centre including latest job opportunities, CV templates, free personalised CV review, job tips, interview preparation, and industry connections.
Optional upgrade offering expert career coaching, personalised career plan, LinkedIn profile review, and proven strategies for job success.
Receive a free virtual Student ID card providing access to over 150,000 discounts on food, entertainment, travel, and more in New Zealand and globally.
Get free access to over 50 eBook titles to enhance learning and knowledge.
Verify your qualification from The Career Academy with SEEK Pass upon completion to share on SEEK and stand out to employers as a qualified, job-ready candidate.
Free access to over 50 eBook titles to enhance learning and knowledge.
Free CV and LinkedIn profile reviews, interview coaching, personalised career planning…
Free virtual Student ID card providing access to over 150,000 discounts in New Zealand and…
The Career Academy offers an online Career Centre providing career coaching, CV reviews, interview preparation, job search resources, and LinkedIn profile reviews. Students have access to a Career Success Hub, Business Hub, and Self Service Resource Hub. The centre includes one-to-one coaching from dedicated career support staff and is available to all students during and after their studies.
A few simple steps from enquiry to your first day.
“Hiromi found the perfect work-life balance after enrolling in The Career Academy's Certificate in Bookkeeping. As a busy mum, the flexibility of online study allowed her to pursue her dream career while caring for her family. Upon completing her course, she secured a role with The Back Office Company and began her journey in a new profession.”
“Cameron transformed his passion for dogs into a successful mobile dog grooming service. With everything from a full grooming table to a hydro-bath, he brings the salon directly to his client's homes. Cameron's journey started with The Career Academy's Diploma in Dog Grooming, which equipped him with the skills and confidence to launch his business.”
“Janet followed her passion for dogs and landed her dream role in a grooming salon, thanks to the Advanced Certificate in Dog Grooming from The Career Academy. Her studies gave her the knowledge to expand her expertise, and she's already planning to launch her own mobile grooming service.”
This Certificate in Animal Care covers the practical knowledge and skills needed to work confidently with animals across a range of settings. Students learn about animal behaviour, health and welfare, safe handling techniques, and the responsibilities involved in everyday animal care.
Delivered by The Career Academy NZ, the course is 100% online and self-paced, with 6 months of access and approximately 140 study hours. There are no exams, assessment is designed to fit around work and life commitments.
The course suits people starting out in animal care, career changers, or anyone looking to formalise their passion for animals with a credentialled qualification. Unlimited tutor support is available during business hours throughout your studies.
Enquire about this course and a course advisor from The Career Academy NZ will be in touch with pricing and next steps.
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Disclaimer: Course information on this page is sourced from the education provider and was last verified on the date shown below. Details including pricing, availability, entry requirements and course content may change without notice. Get Course is a directory service that connects students with course providers; we do not deliver courses directly. Contact the provider for the most current information before enrolling.
Last updated: July 2026