Course summary

The purpose of this programme is to provide a balance of vocational and academic study that is intellectually challenging, vocationally relevant and provides clear foundations to pursue a progressive career in the field of Canine Therapy. Academic knowledge and understanding reinforces and supports the development of vocational skills equipping the students with the abilities and the knowledge relevant to their employment or the need of their employers. The BSc (Hons) in Canine Therapy will produce highly qualified clinicians specialised in all aspects of canine therapy, hydrotherapy, massage therapy and behavioural therapy. All three are popular disciplines within the industry and students will acquire basic skills enabling them to pursue a career in any of these fields. The aims of the programme are to: Build on basic scientific principles to develop an advanced academic knowledge of the canine both in health and disease Evaluate normal and abnormal movement patterns in the dog, including assessment for compensatory mechanisms that may change movement patterns or elicit pain To investigate, explore and appraise areas of canine therapy and rehabilitation to devise and apply professional and clinical strategies to case studies Devise structured rehabilitation plans for injured or post-operative animals and introduce a plan to re-educate the structures relevant to the normal patterns of that animal Apply diagnostic techniques and clinical therapeutic skills in an appropriate manner Complete a portfolio of evidence demonstrating skill in the workplace when applying therapies to dogs Demonstrate the skills to run a business and interact with other professionals, such as the veterinary surgeon or trainer Think constructively and critically, discuss and evaluate concepts and theories, propose sound and reasoned solutions justifying clinical options and choice of treatment to solve issues related to health and disease of the canine Recognition from specific professional bodies is currently being sought. The clinical skills for hydrotherapy and massage therapy will be informed by professional placements in commercially-run sessions on WUC premises.