AIM Qualifications Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Veterinary Surgeons and Veterinary Nurses)
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| Ofqual code | 603/4410/6 |
|---|---|
| Guided learning hours | 326 |
| Start date | Anytime |
| Enrolment will be valid for | You have 24 months to complete your course. |
| Study mode | Online & Practical |
| Award type | Diploma - Learners can expect their certification within 6 months of completing the course, following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance of assessment. All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered. |
| Assessment method | You will be assessed via a combination of video and photo submissions, your supervisor will also need to provide witness testimonies. |
| Qualification level | 3 |
| Location of practical placement | This course includes 6 days of practical training at a Woozelbears centre: Chepstow, Witney, Melksham. Placement dates can be chosen to suit the learner once the threshold has been met. |
| Entry criteria | Learners should be aged 16 or above and will need to provide evidence of Vet or Veterinary Nurse qualifications in order to enrol on this course. |
| Credits | 44 |
| Post Completion | Learners can become a member of the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) or the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (NARCH) following completion of this course. |
Course Description:
The Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy has been designed as a top-up qualification for Veterinary Professionals, including Veterinary Surgeons, Nurses and Technicians, who wish to expand their medical training and continue their professional development.
This qualification includes online theory and 6 days of practical experience in hydrotherapy and aquatic treadmill training where learners will be able to conduct gait analysis and review patient performance. Throughout the course, learners will gain knowledge of the techniques involved in the provision of hydrotherapy and the assessment required before small animal hydrotherapy commences.
The Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) recognises this qualification as part of their criteria for joining their membership for qualified Small Animal Hydrotherapists. In addition, qualified Small Animal Hydrotherapists can apply for an official membership of the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT).
Unit 1
Unit 1: Introduction to Hydrotherapy
This unit is intended to provide learners with background information on hydrotherapy. They will understand what hydrotherapy is and various aspects involved in hydrotherapy from the properties of water to the equipment used. The learner will know the legislation related to the practice of hydrotherapy.
Unit 2
Unit 2: Gait Analysis and Biomechanics
The aim of this unit is for learners to gain knowledge of gait patterns and relevant terminology, as well as posture and muscle contractions relevant to hydrotherapy treatment.
Unit 3
Unit 3: Hydrotherapy and Related Conditions
The aim of this unit is for learners to gain knowledge of the conditions that are commonly presented for hydrotherapy, including medical, orthopaedic and neurological conditions.
Unit 4
Unit 4: Introduction to Small Animal Massage
Learners will understand the benefits of small animal massage and the techniques used in small animal massage. They will understand the benefits of massage on common injuries. Learners will also understand the various forms of massage.
Unit 5
Unit 5: Maintenance of Equipment and Water Balance
Learners will develop the knowledge to understand the importance of key aspects of maintenance in a hydrotherapy setting. This will include water testing and how to interpret results from water tests.
Unit 6
Unit 6: Practical Administration of Hydrotherapy
Learners will explore the practical application of hydrotherapy from the initial assessment to the preparation of the patient, to hydrotherapy treatment and aftercare. They will be able to conduct hydrotherapy pool sessions. Learners will be able to demonstrate skills in the practical administration of hydrotherapy.
Unit 7
Unit 7: Practical Advanced Aquatic Treadmill Techniques
This unit provides learners with the knowledge, information, and practical application of advanced aquatic treadmill techniques to adjust hydrotherapy treatment. Learners will be able to conduct a gait analysis and review patient performance.
Unit 8
Unit 8: Practical Aquatic Treadmill Therapy
This unit aims to give learners a practical skillset when using the aquatic treadmill. They will develop knowledge to understand factors affecting patients in the aquatic treadmill. They will be able to assess the small animal patients for suitability and create a design plan.
Unit 9
Unit 9: Professional Practice Management
The aim of this unit aims to demonstrate to learners the importance of Continual Professional Development and Professional Conduct within the workplace. Learners will develop knowledge of the roles and responsibilities within a hydrotherapy centre and the administration to be carried out.
Unit 10
Unit 10: Small Animal Assessment for Hydrotherapy
This unit provides explores the veterinary referral process, assessment, and health checking of small animals. It also looks at the various professional team members involved in treating a patient, and their suitability for hydrotherapy.
Unit 11
Unit 11: Small Animal Behaviour
Learners will understand small animal behaviour in relation to hydrotherapy. They will develop knowledge related to safe handling and understanding body language in small animals.
Unit 12
Unit 12: Tissue Healing Processes
Learners will develop knowledge of the tissue healing process, including factors that may affect this process, types of pain, and timing of hydrotherapy treatment.
You have 24 months to complete your course.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy can benefit a range of conditions, these are primarily orthopaedic, medical and neurological in nature. Hydrotherapy is often recommended to help animals recover from injury or as part of a pain management plan. Some animals require Hydrotherapy treatment for weight control – particularly if they suffer from obesity.
Hydrotherapy is non-weight bearing, so is comfortable for the vast majority of users. Water allows the animal to move in a buoyant environment and can provide several health benefits including:
- Joint Flexibility
- Improved Mobility and Movement
- Reduced Joint Pain
- Build Strength
- Cardiovascular Fitness
There are several pre-existing conditions experienced by animal patients that could benefit from using Hydrotherapy as a form of treatment. These include:
- Muscle and Ligament Injuries
- Sprains
- Broken Bones
- Hip Dysplasia
- Spinal Injuries
- Paralysis
- Post-operative Muscle Regeneration
- Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
- Obesity
- Weight Control
Hydrotherapy, in conjunction with veterinary treatment, can increase the healing process, improve general fitness and help aid recovery from injury.
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