Category: Media

In Australia, the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system plays an essential role in ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to maintain professional standards. One area where accredited training is particularly important is in the growing field of assistance and therapy animals. While the allure of short, unaccredited (and often fully online without a facilitator) courses is tempting for some, the comprehensive nature of accredited training programs is vital to ensuring not only the welfare of animals but also the safety of clients and the general public.

Accredited Training: Setting the Standard

Accredited training programs are formally recognised by government and industry bodies, ensuring that they meet national standards and align with workforce demands. These programs offer qualifications listed on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), such as Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, and Graduate Diplomas, which are widely recognised and respected across industries.

For individuals working with assistance and therapy animals, accredited training programs provide a level of rigor and standardisation that unaccredited courses simply cannot match. Accredited programs are regulated, to ensure robust assessment strategies, practical components, and ongoing industry engagement, ensuring that graduates not only understand the theory behind their work but can also competently apply it in real-world settings. In the assistance animal industry, where the stakes involve both human and animal welfare, this level of competency is non-negotiable.

According to Thompson and Mackinnon (2021), the use of accredited training ensures that individuals are “better prepared for the complexities of modern work environments and understand the ethical, practical, and safety considerations of their role.” In the context of working with assistance animals, this translates to improved outcomes for both clients and the animals themselves.

Unaccredited Courses: The Risks and Shortcomings

While unaccredited courses may offer a faster route to completion, they often lack the comprehensive scope of accredited training programs. These courses, frequently marketed as “quick and easy,” appeal to those seeking to enter the field quickly but can fall short of equipping learners with the skills they truly need. More concerning, unaccredited training may not include mandatory components such as workplace health and safety, the understanding of animal welfare laws, or ethical considerations; all of which are essential when working in the assistance and therapy animal industry.

The absence of these critical elements increases risks not only to the handler but also to the client and the general public. Poorly trained handlers may unknowingly engage in practices that endanger the well-being of the animals, which can lead to behavioral issues or ineffective support for clients. Jones and Taylor (2020) argue that the lack of regulation in unaccredited training can “lead to gaps in competency that are particularly concerning in industries involving vulnerable populations.” In this case, those vulnerable populations include both people with disabilities and the animals trained to assist them.

Ensuring Public, Client, and Animal Safety

Accredited training in fields related to assistance and therapy animals incorporates extensive practical experience, allowing handlers to work in controlled environments under the watchful eye of suitability qualified industry, training and assessment professionals.  This ensures that they are fully equipped to manage the behaviour of animals in various settings and under different conditions. Safety, both for the handler and the general public, is a major focus of these programs. For instance, understanding how to respond to an assistance animal’s stress signals or knowing how to navigate public spaces with a working animal are skills taught in accredited programs that are often absent in shorter, unaccredited options.

Furthermore, accredited training programs ensure compliance with Australian laws and standards. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and most support organisations rely on accredited professionals to meet industry expectations and uphold safety and ethical standards. This connection between accredited training and industry expectations is not just about individual qualifications; it is about protecting the broader public interest.

Linking Accredited Training to Broader Industry Standards

In Australia, accredited training is a cornerstone of workforce development. The assistance and therapy animal industry, as with many others, depends on workers who are both qualified and competent. This competence is crucial for professionals who interact with clients requiring high levels of care and attention. The VET system, through its accredited programs, ensures that professionals are equipped with the necessary tools to perform their roles effectively.

Accredited training programs also serve as a means of maintaining quality assurance in the industry. Because these programs are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect industry changes, professionals who undergo accredited training are well-prepared for evolving standards and best practices. Smith and Brennan (2019) note that “accredited training provides an essential link between the education sector and industry, ensuring that learning outcomes align with real-world requirements.”

In industries where the safety of vulnerable people and animals is at stake, this alignment is crucial. Professionals working with assistance animals not only need to understand animal behavior and training techniques but also need to be aware of the legal, ethical, and social implications of their work. Accredited training ensures that these professionals are accountable to the highest standards.

Conclusion

The importance of accredited training in the assistance and therapy animal industry cannot be overstated. While unaccredited courses may seem like a convenient shortcut, they often fail to provide the necessary breadth and depth of training required to ensure safety and professionalism in this critical field.

As the demand for assistance and therapy animals continues to grow, so too does the need for qualified professionals who have undergone rigorous, accredited training. This is not only about achieving competence but also about ensuring that the industry as a whole continues to operate at the highest possible standard.

In recent years, the concept of incorporating therapy animals into school environments has gained significant traction. These specially trained animals—often dogs, but sometimes cats, rabbits, or even miniature horses—are brought into educational settings to support students’ emotional and psychological well-being. The benefits of therapy animals in schools are numerous, impacting students, staff, and the overall school environment.

Emotional Support

One of the primary advantages of therapy animals is their ability to provide emotional support. Many students experience anxiety, stress, or social challenges that can hinder their academic performance and overall well-being. The presence of a therapy animal can create a calming atmosphere, helping students feel more relaxed and secure. When students interact with these animals, they often experience a reduction in anxiety levels, which can lead to improved focus and engagement in learning activities.

Enhanced Social Skills

Therapy animals can also play a vital role in helping students develop social skills. For children who struggle with communication or social interaction, these animals serve as non-threatening companions. Students can practice verbal and non-verbal communication skills while engaging with the animals. Moreover, therapy animals can encourage peer interactions, as students often bond over their shared interest in caring for and playing with the animals. This socialisation can lead to increased friendships and a more inclusive school environment.

Improved Academic Performance

The presence of therapy animals can have a positive impact on academic performance as well. Studies have shown that students who engage with therapy animals often demonstrate improved concentration and motivation in their studies. The calming effect of these animals can help reduce distractions and foster a more focused learning environment. Additionally, therapy animals can be incorporated into educational activities, making learning more interactive and enjoyable. For example, reading programs that involve therapy dogs encourage reluctant readers to practice in a non-judgmental setting, boosting their confidence and literacy skills.

Support for Students with Additional Needs

Therapy animals are particularly beneficial for students with additional needs. These animals can help facilitate communication and social interaction for students with autism, ADHD, or other developmental challenges. The unconditional love and acceptance that therapy animals provide can help these students feel more comfortable in their school environment, allowing them to engage more fully with their peers and educators. Furthermore, the sensory experiences associated with petting and interacting with animals can be therapeutic, helping to regulate emotions and sensory processing.

Fostering a Positive School Climate

Incorporating therapy animals into schools can foster a more positive and compassionate school climate. When students, teachers, and staff witness the benefits of therapy animals, it promotes a culture of empathy and understanding. This can lead to decreased bullying and increased cooperation among students. Moreover, therapy animals often become a beloved part of the school community, providing a shared point of connection that transcends typical student interactions.

Conclusion

The integration of therapy animals into schools offers a multitude of benefits, from emotional support and improved social skills to enhanced academic performance and a positive school climate. As educators and administrators continue to explore innovative ways to support student well-being, therapy animals stand out as a powerful and effective resource. By recognising the profound impact these animals can have, schools can create a more inclusive, supportive, and nurturing environment for all students.

About the Author: Angela is a warm and passionate primary school and music teacher based in Queensland, who truly believes in the power of therapy animals to enhance the school experience. With a big heart for animals and a genuine love for teaching, she enjoys exploring the many ways therapy animals can positively impact students’ well-being and learning. Throughout her career, Angela has taken on various roles, including support coordinator and veterinary nurse, which have enriched her understanding of both education and animal care. She brings a wealth of experience to her classroom, where she inspires her students to learn and grow while fostering a love for animals and music.