AIM Qualifications Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy

NARCH Registration

Approved by the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) “We are really impressed with the additions and style of qualification and are pleased to let you know that we will accept this new qualification as a part of the membership criteria for joining the CHA”

International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT) Students who have completed their qualification in Small Animal Hydrotherapy can apply for a membership at the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT) International Association of Animal Therapists Membership Benefits Membership of IAAT is open to all animal therapists, veterinary surgeons and nurses and students. Applicants should be the holder of, or a student on, a qualification in the relevant animal therapies.

Click Below To Download our Guide to Small Animal Hydrotherapy

UCAS Points Allocation

All Level 3 qualifications at Animal Courses Direct attract UCAS Tariff Points, meaning that successful learners can use their qualification as part of their university application process. This is ideal for anyone looking to study a degree or continue their training at a Higher Education (HE) provider.

Each Level 3 course is allocated a certain number of UCAS Tariff Points, ranging from 8 points to 48 points depending on the course. If you are keen to advance your academic career, then our Level 3 qualifications can play a big part in your progression.



 

Practical Placement Venues

These may change depending on the current situation but will not affect the students online learning

Chepstow, Witney and Melksham

Minimum student age: 16 years

Students will gain an understanding of the techniques involved in the provision of hydrotherapy and the assessment required before small animal hydrotherapy commences. Learn about the various medical conditions and their impact on hydrotherapy treatment. This regulated qualification also develops students knowledge around tissue healing, small animal behaviour and professional practice management.

There is a focus on Practical Aquatic Treadmill Therapy and Advanced Treadmill Techniques – something that is not offered in any other qualification. Additionally, students will learn terminology to be able to conduct gait analysis and review patient performance practically.

This qualification consists of a blend of theory and practical training that includes:

• The theoretical principles of animal hydrotherapy and treadmill therapy, as well as theoretical guidance on how these therapies can be used
• Details on the conditions that hydrotherapy can benefit. These are primarily orthopaedic, medical and neurological in nature, and therapists are required to be well-versed in these conditions in order to accurately administer therapy
• First aid and dealing with small animal emergencies – this is essential for therapists who intend to work in animal healthcare and a mandatory requirement from the CHA/ NARCH to practice as a hydrotherapist
• Practical administration of hydrotherapy for dogs, cats, rabbits and other small animals
• Small animal behaviour relevant to dogs, cats, rabbits and other small animals in a therapeutic setting
• Thorough guidance on learning to assess an animal’s likely outcome from hydrotherapy and how to ascertain whether the treatment is suitable for a specific case
• Learn about small animal anatomy and biology; essential for ensuring robust baseline medical knowledge
• The basic fundamentals of administering hydrotherapy, such as assessment, handling of the patient, managing the equipment and other elements that are essential for effective treatment
• Learn how to manage aftercare for an animal that has experienced a session of hydrotherapy, and how to interact with pet owners to explain performance during the session
• All paperwork requirements and training on report writing about hydrotherapy treatments

As well as the theoretical study, the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy also involves a large amount of practical training and assessment spread over 6 days. This includes:

Intensive hands on training and assessments with our team of experienced Vets, Physiotherapists and Hydrotherapists at Woozelbears, a well established canine hydrotherapy company. This centre has top of the range equipment including underwater treadmills, large bespoke pools, hydrotherapy spa, the 2nd gait analysis treadmill in the UK and a team of highly qualified personnel. Gain hands on training with a variety of dogs attending for rehabilitation and sports conditioning. Train with highly qualified, experienced hydrotherapists and veterinary physiotherapists to learn how the treatment is used in a working rehabilitation clinic. This includes pool hydrotherapy and hydrotherapy treadmill treatments, including innovative advanced aquatic treadmill techniques. The practical training enables students to learn from experienced professionals in the industry while working with a range of cases at different stages of treatment.

This small animal hydrotherapy qualification will ensure you are employable as an animal hydrotherapist; there are many companies around the country that are recruiting for qualified Small Animal Hydrotherapists. Woozelbears Hydrotherapy offers franchise opportunities in various parts of the UK if you have the ambition to own your own business.

Please note, course fees must be paid in full prior to attending the practical placement.

Average study duration:

4 month option: 20-30 hours study per week over 4 months

1 year option: 8-10 hrs per week spread over 1 year

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

The 6 practical training days are additional to the above time guides

Entry requirements:

• Students must demonstrate previous experience with animals
• The minimum age for access to this qualification is 16 years
• Students are required to have a good understanding of English language, have good physical mobility and physical fitness and be a confident swimmer

Progression Routes: This qualification can be used by students to gain employment in the animal care sector, to set up their own animal hydrotherapy business or to progress to further study in the animal hydrotherapy/physiotherapy sector.