Skills and Education Group Awards are proud to announce the launch of two brand new industry-specific canine hydrotherapy qualifications, creating a suite of qualifications for those looking to train in a career as a Canine Hydrotherapist.

The new qualifications are the Level 2 Certificate for Canine Hydrotherapy Assistants and the Level 4 Diploma in Canine Hydrotherapy. Both qualifications have been collaboratively developed with industry specialists.

In addition, the Level 3 Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy has been re-developed and updated in line with industry demands.

The Level 2 Certificate provides learners with the knowledge and practical skills to embark on a career within the canine hydrotherapy industry. By introducing learners to important canine anatomy and physiology, and offering opportunities for industry experience, this qualification equips learners to gain employment as a Canine Hydrotherapy Assistant, or progress onto the Level 3 Certificate.

The re-development of the Level 3 Certificate has updated this qualification in line with current industry best practice. With the provision of over 300 guided learning hours, and the addition of some fascinating new units such as canine gait and movement, the Level 3 Certificate fully prepares learners to work autonomously within the industry. For many years this qualification has led the way and remains the benchmark for becoming an industry-recognised Canine Hydrotherapist.

Learners wishing to further their skills and knowledge can now take advantage of the brand new Level 4 Diploma. This qualification allows learners to fulfil CPD requirements, while a range of optional units provide scope for learners to develop their knowledge and specialise in areas of particular interest.

The Skills and Education Group Awards are endorsed by the Institute of Registered Veterinary & Animal Physiotherapists (IRVAP). As a leading professional association representing a community of qualified professionals working in animal therapy, IRVAP helps to maintain high standards of professionalism and clinical proficiency in the industry.

The Group are also endorsed by the Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (ICH), a sub group of the IRVAP. The ICH sets the standards for professionalism and clinical proficiency in therapeutic canine hydrotherapy.

Barbara Houlding, chair of the IRVAP and ICH, said ‘The ICH recognises and fully endorses the updated SEG Awards ABC Level 3 Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy and the new Level 4 Diploma in Canine Hydrotherapy. These represent important career pathways of progression, essential for safe and competent practice. They meet the ICH day one canine hydrotherapy competencies and support the advancement of therapeutic canine hydrotherapy practice. Both these courses are about raising standards of service provision and improving the lives of dogs and their owners.’

To find out more about these qualifications, and to register your interest in delivering them, please contact Gina, our Development and Delivery Support Officer, or speak to Gina on 0115 854 1589.