Certificate in Dog Walking and Pet Sitting

Module 1: Foundations of Professional Pet Care

• Understanding the Pet Care Industry in New Zealand 
• Professional Standards and Ethics in Pet Care
• Building Your Pet Care Knowledge Base
• Interpreting Dog Body Language and Communication Signals
• Understanding Common Pet Behaviours and Needs
• Developing Essential Pet Handling Skills

Module 2: Dog Walking Fundamentals

• Leash Training and Walking Techniques
• Managing Different Dog Types and Temperaments
• Planning Safe and Effective Walking Routes
• Group Walking Management and Control
• Weather Considerations and Seasonal Adaptations
• Handling Challenging Situations During Walks

Module 3: Pet Sitting Essentials

• Home Visit Protocols and Procedures
• Feeding, Watering, and Basic Care Routines
• Medication Administration and Special Needs Care
• Exercise and Enrichment for Different Animals
• Pet Sitting Multiple Animals Simultaneously
• Overnight Pet Sitting Best Practices

Module 4: Health, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness

• Pet First Aid Fundamentals
• Recognising Signs of Illness or Distress
• Emergency Response and Decision Making
• Managing Aggressive Behaviour and Preventing Dog Fights
• Home and Environmental Safety Assessment
• Biosecurity and Disease Prevention Protocols

Module 5: Building Your Pet Care Business

• Business Structure and Registration in New Zealand
• Creating Your Service Menu and Pricing Strategy
• Insurance, Liability, and Legal Considerations
• Marketing Your Pet Care Services Effectively
• Client Acquisition and Retention Strategies
• Financial Management for Sustainable Operations

Module 6: Professional Client Communication

• Establishing Clear Service Agreements
• Conducting Professional Initial Consultations
• Regular Client Updates and Communication
• Managing Client Expectations and Boundaries
• Handling Difficult Conversations and Feedback
• Building Long‑Term Client Relationships

Module 7: Advanced Dog Walking Techniques

• Specialised Handling for Senior and Special‑Needs Dogs
• Managing Reactive Dogs During Walks
• Training Reinforcement During Walking Sessions
• Engaging Activities and Mental Stimulation on Walks
• Off‑Leash Management and Recall Training Basics
• Navigating Dog Parks and Public Spaces Safely

Module 8: Growing and Sustaining Your Pet Care Business

• Scheduling Systems and Time Management
• Record Keeping and Client Management Tools
• Hiring and Training Pet Care Assistants
• Expanding Your Service Offerings
• Seasonal Business Strategies and Planning
• Self‑Care and Preventing Burnout in Pet Services