Unit 7. Animal Health, Veterinary Care and First Aid

The health of an assistance animal directly influences its welfare, behaviour, learning, task performance and ability to support meaningful occupational participation. Occupational Therapists are not responsible for diagnosing or treating veterinary conditions; however, they require a comprehensive understanding of animal health to recognise signs of illness, injury and compromised welfare, provide appropriate first aid within their professional scope, and collaborate effectively with veterinary professionals.

This unit examines the principles of animal anatomy, physiology, preventative healthcare, nutrition, disease recognition, emergency response, rehabilitation and lifelong health management. Students explore how physical health influences behaviour, occupational performance and quality of life, while developing the knowledge required to identify health concerns, provide immediate first aid where appropriate and facilitate timely veterinary referral. Throughout the unit, emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, One Health, One Welfare, ethical decision-making and the Occupational Therapist’s role in promoting safe, healthy and sustainable assistance animal partnerships.