New working dog first aid qualification equips handlers in search and rescue, police, detection, security, military and field sports to respond when seconds count
iPET Network, an Ofqual-regulated Awarding Organisation specialising in animal care and veterinary science, today announces the launch of its new Level 3 Award in Working Dog First Aid, a regulated working dog first aid qualification designed for people who work with dogs in demanding professional environments.
Why working dogs need specialist first aid
Working dogs operate in conditions where a vet is rarely close by. Search and rescue teams, police dog handlers, detection teams, security services, military units, agricultural workers and field sports handlers all depend on their dogs in remote, high-risk or fast-moving situations, where an injury can happen far from veterinary help.
The new qualification prepares handlers to act as first responders for their dogs, with the knowledge and practical skills to stabilise an injured dog and manage the situation until professional care is available.
What learners will study
The Level 3 Award in Working Dog First Aid covers a wide range of emergencies, including:
Learners will also study the primary survey and examination of an injured dog, working dog first aid kit essentials, field transport techniques, and communication and escalation protocols. The qualification includes hands-on practice in CPR, bandaging and wound care, recording pulse and respiration rates, and managing realistic emergency scenarios involving working dogs, including advanced trauma first aid.
How it works
The qualification is made up of two units, Principles of Working Dog First Aid and Practical Working Dog First Aid, and is assessed through a portfolio of evidence and a practical assessment. Key details:
The qualification is delivered through iPET Network’s nationwide community of Approved Centres, which includes schools, trainers and tutors.
Led by industry expertise
Sarah Mackay, Director at iPET Network, said: “Working dogs put themselves on the line every day, and their handlers need to know exactly what to do when something goes wrong. This qualification gives them practical, credible skills they can rely on, backed by Ofqual regulation and shaped by people who understand working environments.”
Tutors delivering the qualification must be professionally competent, such as veterinary professionals or experienced canine first aiders, and have relevant experience in advanced canine first aid in a professional setting, such as police dog handling.
How to get involved
Handlers and employers: Find an Approved Centre delivering the Level 3 Award in Working Dog First Aid via www.ipetnetwork.co.uk, or contact iPET Network on info@ipetnetwork.co.uk.
Centres and organisations: To apply to deliver the qualification, email eqa@ipetnetwork.co.uk or call 0800 433 4700.
About iPET Network
iPET Network is an Awarding Organisation regulated by Ofqual, CCEA Regulation and Qualifications Wales, specialising in animal care and veterinary science qualifications. It is also an End-point Assessment Awarding Organisation for English apprenticeship standards, and supports a network of Approved Centres across the UK, Ireland, Europe and internationally. Its mission is Education for People, for Pets, for the Future.
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