Module 4 – Environmental Enrichment and Behavioural Husbandry

This module explores behavioural husbandry and environmental enrichment as essential components of maintaining physical, psychological and emotional wellbeing in assistance animals. Students examine species-specific environmental needs, enrichment design, behavioural management and ongoing program evaluation to promote natural behaviour, prevent behavioural deterioration and optimise long-term welfare.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

1. Explain the importance of environmental enrichment for assistance animal welfare.
2. Design enrichment strategies that support behavioural health and occupational performance.
3. Describe behavioural husbandry practices across the lifespan.
4. Evaluate how equipment and environments influence behaviour and welfare.
5. Recognise early indicators of behavioural problems and implement preventative strategies.
6. Support retirement planning and quality of life for ageing assistance animals.