Program Overview

Animal Care Aide

Overview

The Animal Care Aide program at North Island College is designed to provide students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary for employment in veterinary hospitals, animal shelters, and kennels. The program focuses on developing a strong understanding of animal behavior, health, wellness, and welfare, as well as hands-on skills to provide compassionate care to animals.

Admission Requirements

• C in English 11 or equivalent or successful English assessment
• C in one of Applications or Principles of Math 11, Introduction to Math 11, Apprenticeship and Workplace Math 11, Workplace Math 11, Foundations of Math 11, Trades Math 11, Consumer Math 11, NIC MAT 053, or NIC MAT 055, or NIC Animal Care Aide Math Assessment

Course Requirements

• ANH - 100 Domestic Animal Anatomy and Physiology
• ANH 101 Introduction to Radiology
• ANH 102 Basic Laboratory Procedures
• ANH 103 Hospital Care
• ANH 104 Basic Surgical Procedures
• ANH 110 Work Experience for Animal Care Aide
• ANH 112 Client Interaction

Completion Requirements

• Attendance is required in all courses. Absenteeism may result in failure.
• Students must maintain a C+ or better in each course to continue and to complete the program.

Careers

Alumni of the Animal Care Aide program are prepared to step into entry-level roles in the animal care industry or use this certificate as a stepping stone for further education in veterinary or animal sciences.

Estimated Earnings

• $34,934* (annual estimated earnings for animal care aids in BC)

Costs

• Tuition: $2,680
• Books: $200
• Total: $2,880

Location and Delivery

• Comox Valley
• Fall
• 7 months
• In-person
• Part-time

Program Description

This non-credit program is offered through Continuing Education and Training. Students will develop practical skills and knowledge for employment in veterinary hospitals, animal shelters, and kennels. The program includes 20 hours of mandatory work experience.