The Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare offered at Unisa is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge in the field of animal care. This qualification is ideal for individuals passionate about promoting the well-being and ethical treatment of animals. Unlike more advanced qualifications, such as the PGDip Animal Welfare at the University of Pretoria (UP) or the Animal Care, Welfare and Husbandry – Diploma at Pet Sense College, this certificate provides an accessible entry point into the animal welfare profession for those with a matric certificate pass or higher.

What Can I Do with a Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare in South Africa?

With a Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare, you can pursue the following job titles:



1. Animal Care Assistant

  • Job Description: Assist with the daily care of animals in shelters or veterinary clinics, including feeding, cleaning, and basic medical care.
  • Potential Employers: SPCA, local animal shelters, private veterinary clinics.
  • Salary: Approximately ZAR 6,000 – ZAR 8,000 per month.

2. Kennel Assistant

  • Job Description: Maintain cleanliness and order in kennels, feed and exercise animals, and assist with basic health checks.
  • Potential Employers: Private kennels, pet boarding facilities, animal rescue organizations.
  • Salary: Around ZAR 5,000 – ZAR 7,000 per month.

3. Animal Welfare Inspector

  • Job Description: Inspect animal facilities to ensure compliance with welfare regulations, investigate reports of animal cruelty, and educate the public on proper animal care.
  • Potential Employers: National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA), local animal control agencies.
  • Salary: Approximately ZAR 8,000 – ZAR 10,000 per month.

4. Pet Groomer Assistant

  • Job Description: Assist professional pet groomers with bathing, drying, and grooming animals, and ensure the grooming area is clean and safe.
  • Potential Employers: Pet grooming salons, veterinary clinics with grooming services.
  • Salary: Around ZAR 5,000 – ZAR 7,000 per month.
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5. Wildlife Rehabilitation Assistant

  • Job Description: Help care for injured or orphaned wildlife, assist with rehabilitation efforts, and prepare animals for release back into the wild.
  • Potential Employers: Wildlife rehabilitation centers, conservation organizations.
  • Salary: Approximately ZAR 6,000 – ZAR 8,000 per month.

Here’s a detailed guide on the career opportunities, expected salaries, and potential employers you can explore with this qualification.

Skills and Knowledge Acquired

Upon completing this qualification, you will be able to:

  • Understand animal anatomy and physiology: Essential for identifying and addressing health issues in animals.
  • Recognize and manage animal behavior and husbandry: Crucial for maintaining the well-being of animals.
  • Uphold ethical standards in animal care: Ensuring animals are treated humanely.
  • Perform basic animal care tasks: Including first aid, feeding, grooming, and monitoring animal health.

Benefits of the Qualification

  • Promotes Animal Welfare Awareness: Encourages ethical treatment and care of animals, which is crucial for their well-being.
  • Addresses Skill Shortages: Helps alleviate the shortage of trained animal welfare professionals in South Africa.
  • Supports Community Welfare Efforts: Graduates often work in roles that enhance the health and well-being of companion animals in various communities.
  • Accessible to a Wide Range of Students: Available to anyone with a matric certificate pass or higher, promoting inclusivity in the field of animal welfare.

Further Studies and Professional Development

While this certificate is an entry-level qualification, it provides a solid foundation for further studies. Graduates can pursue additional certifications or diplomas in veterinary nursing, animal behavior, or other specialized areas within animal welfare to enhance their career prospects.

Where to Study

This course is offered by Unisa. For more information and to register, visit their official website.

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In summary, a Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare prepares you for various entry-level roles in the animal care industry, offering realistic career opportunities and a pathway for further education and professional development.