Level 2 Award in First Aid for Dogs

Introduction

Be prepared to act quickly and confidently when it matters most.

The Level 2 Award in First Aid for Dogs is an Ofqual-regulated qualification awarded by iPET Network. It provides the essential knowledge and practical skills to recognise and respond to canine health emergencies, stabilise injured or ill dogs, and support their recovery until veterinary help is available.

This qualification is ideal for anyone working professionally with dogs — including walkers, groomers, home boarders, kennel staff, and day-care professionals — or for dedicated owners who want to provide the best possible care.

Delivered online with tutor support and practical learning resources, this course ensures you meet Defra’s licensing expectations for competent, responsible care in any animal activities business.

Learning Objectives

Unit 1 – Canine First Aid

By the end of this qualification, learners will be able to:

• Understand the objectives of first aid and the principles of emergency response.
• Recognise the signs of common canine injuries and illnesses.
• Perform a safe and effective primary survey (temperature, pulse, respiration).
• Know how to conduct CPR, abdominal thrusts, and the recovery position.
• Provide appropriate first aid for wounds, bleeding, and fractures.
• Recognise and respond to heatstroke, poisoning, bloat, convulsions, and water inhalation.
• Apply correct bandaging techniques and handle dogs safely in emergencies.
• Know the contents and maintenance requirements of a canine first aid kit.

Qualification Information

Qualification Title: Level 2 Award in Canine First Aid
Awarding Organisation: iPET Network
Level: 2
Regulated By: Ofqual
Total Qualification Time (TQT): Approximately 6 hours
Delivery: Online and supported self-study with optional practical demonstration.
Licensing: Statutory Guidance

Completion of this award supports compliance with the licensing requirement that staff “must have the competence to recognise signs of and take appropriate action to prevent pain, suffering, injury or disease.”

Who is the course for?

This regulated qualification is for anyone who works with dogs – particularly in these settings:

• Dog boarding
• Dog day carer
• Dog breeder
• Dog walking
• Dog trainer/behaviourist
• Dog grooming
• Pet sitting

You do not need any prior knowledge or qualifications to study for this qualification, although some experience or related knowledge will be advantageous.

Assignments and assessments

Learning Style and Content

Delivered online via Dog Business School’s learning platform, with video demonstrations, practical examples, and tutor-led support. Study at your own pace and revisit content whenever needed.

Assessments

Achievement is through:

• Short-answer questions and knowledge checks.
• Scenario-based assessments.
• Optional video or live demonstration of CPR and bandaging.

All evidence is assessed by qualified tutor-assessors and externally verified by iPET Network.

Pass / Refer

Each assessment is graded Pass or Refer. You have two complimentary resubmissions if needed.

Certification

Certificates are issued by iPET Network after successful verification. An interim confirmation of achievement can be provided for licensing applications.

This qualification is trusted by professionals and approved by Defra inspectors as evidence of competence in canine emergency response.

When a dog needs help, there is no time to look it up. This qualification makes sure you already know what to do.

FAQs