Level 2 Animal Care BTEC

This subject is broken down into 38 topics in 8 modules:

  1. Maintain Animal Health and Welfare 5 topics
  2. Undertake Practical Animal Handling 5 topics
  3. Understand the Principles of Animal Biology 5 topics
  4. Plan and Monitor Animal Diets 5 topics
  5. Participate in providing animal care through work experience 4 topics
  6. Contribute to the nursing of animals 5 topics
  7. Understand the Principles of Animal Behavior 4 topics
  8. Contribute to the rehabilitation and release of wildlife 5 topics
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  • 8
    modules
  • 38
    topics
  • 13,568
    words of revision content
  • 1+
    hours of audio lessons

This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Animal Care

Maintain Animal Health and Welfare

Recognizing signs of good health and ill health in animals

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Recognizing signs of good health and ill health in animals

Recognizing Signs of Good Health in Animals

  • Regular and even breathing, without any sign of strain or discomfort.
  • Clear, bright eyes without any discharge or redness.
  • Ears are clean and free from discharge, parasites, or any signs of scratching or shaking.
  • The nose should be moist without any discharge.
  • Skin and fur should be clear of parasites, sores, lumps, or bare patches.
  • Animal exhibits normal behaviour according to its species. It demonstrates desired energy levels, interaction, and responses.
  • Healthy appetite and digestion. The animal should be eating regularly and its faeces should be firm and regular.
  • Good body condition, neither overweight nor underweight.

Recognizing Signs of Ill Health in Animals

  • Changes in behaviour: lethargy, aggression, decreased interaction or changes in social behavior.
  • Changes in appetite or drinking habits: refusing food or water, overeating, or increased thirst.
  • Change in weight: rapid weight loss or gain.
  • Changes in bowel movements or urination: diarrhoea, constipation, blood in stool, difficulty urinating, or increased frequency.
  • Physical symptoms: excessive panting or drooling, imbalance, sudden lameness, unusual body or breath odour.
  • Changes in appearance: dull coat, hair loss, redness, swelling, lump or wound, emaciation, bloating, abnormal posture.
  • Eye or nose discharge: any discharge other than clear is typically a sign of a problem.
  • Vomiting or regurgitation: occasional vomiting might not be a cause for concern, but if it's repeated or chronic, it could indicate a serious condition.
  • Persistent coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.
  • Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at certain areas of body which might indicate discomfort or skin problems.
  • Unusual vocalisation: many animals will make more noise than usual when they're not feeling well.

It is essential to seek veterinary advice immediately if an animal shows any sign of ill health. Recognising these symptoms in a timely manner could be the part in successfully treating an animal's illness.

Course material for Animal Care, module Maintain Animal Health and Welfare, topic Recognizing signs of good health and ill health in animals

Animal Care

Plan and Monitor Animal Diets

Health and safety when preparing animal feed

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Health and safety when preparing animal feed

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Always wear appropriate PPE when preparing animal feed, such as gloves, dust masks, and footwear.
  • PPE helps protect against health hazards such as ingestion or inhalation of dust, allergenic substances or toxins present in animal feed.
  • Frequently clean and replace PPE to maintain its effectiveness and ensure safety.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

  • Regularly clean and sanitize all tools, equipment, and surfaces used for feed preparation.
  • Always wash hands before and after preparing feed to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Keep the feed storage and preparation areas clean to reduce chances of attracting pests or vermin.

Feed Storage

  • Store feed in cool, dry conditions to prevent mould development and maintain nutrient quality.
  • Keep different types of feed separate to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Properly sealed containers should be used to prevent ingress of moisture, and infestation by pests or rodents.

Feed Checking

  • Always check the condition of the feed before giving it to the animals.
  • Discard any feed that smells musty, is discoloured or appears to have mould, as it can pose serious health hazards to animals.
  • Regularly check expiration dates and dispose of any outdated feed properly.

Preparation Process

  • Follow accurate measures and feed ratios as directed by diet plans or nutritionists.
  • Never use dirty or contaminated tools for feed preparation.
  • Be mindful of preparing specific diets, such as for animals with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Reporting Issues

  • Any incidents or issues related to feed preparation should be immediately reported to a supervisor.
  • Signs of pests or vermin in the feed store, damaged or contaminated feed should also be reported promptly.
  • Continued monitoring and reporting helps ensure that quality and safety standards are maintained.

Course material for Animal Care, module Plan and Monitor Animal Diets, topic Health and safety when preparing animal feed

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