Canine First Aid Course
Key Features
Of this Canine First Aid Course Course:
- Covers assessment of canine vital signs, airway management and emergency response procedures aligned with current UK animal welfare standards.
- Includes practical sessions on CPR, choking relief, haemorrhage control and management of shock in dogs.
- Addresses common workplace incidents such as bites, fractures, poisoning, heatstroke and seizure response.
- Uses realistic canine mannequins and scenario-based exercises to build confidence in real situations.
- Suitable for staff working in kennels, grooming salons, dog day-care, security and assistance dog roles.
- Provides clear guidance on when and how to hand over to veterinary professionals after initial first aid.
Course Date Availability
Canine First Aid Course training at the following 1 centres. Prices from £95 per person :
| Training Centres | Next Available Dates |
|---|---|
| Newcastle | 12th Jul 202626th Jul 2026 |
Course Information
Overview:
Canine First Aid training equips delegates with the skills to recognise and manage health emergencies in dogs until professional veterinary care is available. The course follows recognised UK industry practices for those whose work involves regular contact with dogs in kennels, grooming facilities, security teams or assistance roles. Delegates learn systematic assessment techniques, life-saving interventions and safe handling methods that reduce the risk of further injury to both the animal and handler.
Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for:
- Kennel and cattery staff
- Dog groomers and day-care attendants
- Security dog handlers
- Assistance dog trainers and instructors
- Animal welfare inspectors
- Veterinary reception and support staff
What You Will Learn
By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Systematic primary and secondary assessment of an injured or unwell dog
- Canine CPR and rescue breathing techniques using approved mannequins
- Clearing airway obstructions and managing choking incidents
- Control of external bleeding and application of pressure dressings
- Recognition and treatment of shock, heatstroke and hypothermia
- Safe immobilisation for suspected fractures and spinal injuries
- Response to common poisoning, bites and seizure events
- Accurate recording of observations for handover to veterinary staff
Course Agenda
Overview:
The course runs over one full day and combines short theory presentations with extended practical workshops. Delegates work in small groups using canine mannequins and simulated scenarios to practise each skill before completing a final assessment.
Key Modules Covered
What you will learn:
- Introduction to canine anatomy and normal vital signs
- Primary survey and safe approach techniques
- Airway, breathing and circulation interventions including CPR
- Wound care, bandaging and haemorrhage control
- Medical emergencies: poisoning, seizures, heatstroke
- Musculoskeletal injuries and safe transport methods
- Legal responsibilities, record keeping and handover procedures
Private Courses On-site
Canine First Aid training is also available as a dedicated course, at your premises, and on a date and time of your choosing. Advantages of group / private course is the convenience of candidates being in familiar surroundings and not having to travel, the lowest price, and the ability to have the course tailored to your own application.
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Accreditation & Next Steps
What you will achieve as a result:
Delegates who successfully complete the practical and written assessments receive a certificate of competence in Canine First Aid. The qualification remains valid for three years, after which a refresher course is required to maintain currency with updated guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most commonly asked Canine First Aid questions:
The course is delivered over one full day, typically eight hours including breaks, with a balance of theory input and practical exercises.
No formal qualifications are required. Delegates should have a reasonable level of fitness to participate in practical handling exercises.
The syllabus includes vital signs assessment, CPR, choking, bleeding control, shock, heatstroke, poisoning, fractures, seizures and safe handover to veterinary professionals.
Assessment consists of a short written test and continuous observation of practical skills during scenario exercises.
Successful delegates receive a certificate of competence in Canine First Aid valid for three years.
A refresher course is recommended every three years to maintain skills and update knowledge of current practices.
The course focuses exclusively on canine anatomy, handling and emergency procedures rather than human protocols.
Delegates need only bring comfortable clothing suitable for practical work and note-taking materials.
The course can be arranged at suitable training venues or client sites that provide adequate space for practical exercises.
Yes. The content starts with basic anatomy and builds skills progressively through supervised practice.
Delegates practise with muzzles, bandages, stretchers and ventilation aids commonly available in canine care settings.
The course provides clear decision-making frameworks so delegates know when to intervene and when to contact a veterinary surgeon immediately.
Prices per person typically start at £95. Discounts available for multi person or group bookings (depending upon location)
More Information
The training emphasises realistic workplace scenarios and safe handling practices that protect both the dog and the handler. All techniques follow current UK animal first aid recommendations and are demonstrated by instructors with extensive experience in canine care environments.
Last updated: May 2026 • Part of XYZ Training Group