Working in animal care, pet grooming, veterinary environments and dog training settings can be physically demanding and emotionally challenging. It is important that students understand both the self-care strategies and the external support services available to them.

If you ever feel overwhelmed, unsafe, stressed, or unsure about something in your training or workplace, please reach out.

Self-Care and Safety Tips for Animal Care Environments

Animal care workplaces such as grooming salons, kennels, training facilities and veterinary clinics require high levels of physical stamina, emotional resilience and workplace awareness.

1. Protect Your Physical Health

• Use correct manual handling techniques when lifting dogs or equipment.
• Ask for assistance when handling large or reactive animals.
• Wear appropriate PPE (closed shoes, gloves, hearing protection where required).
• Take regular breaks to reduce fatigue and repetitive strain injuries.
• Stay hydrated and eat regularly during long practical days.

Fatigue increases the risk of workplace incidents and injuries.

2. Prioritise Infection Control

• Wash hands between animals.
• Follow biosecurity and infection control procedures at all times.
• Report any bites, scratches or injuries immediately.
• Keep vaccinations (such as tetanus) up to date where recommended.

Good hygiene protects you, your colleagues and the animals in your care.

3. Maintain Emotional Wellbeing

Working with animals can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also involve:

• Managing anxious or reactive animals
• Dealing with distressed clients
• Witnessing injury or illness
• Managing high workloads

It is important to:

• Talk to your trainer or supervisor if something is affecting you.
• Debrief after challenging situations.
• Set boundaries around workload and expectations.
• Recognise early signs of stress or burnout.

4. Psychological Safety in the Workplace

All students have the right to:

• A safe and respectful learning environment
• Freedom from bullying, harassment or discrimination
• Clear communication and fair treatment

If you experience or witness inappropriate behaviour, report it to:

• Your trainer
• The RTO administration team
• Workplace supervisor (if on placement)

We take all concerns seriously and handle them confidentially.

5. Know Your Limits

It is okay to:

• Ask questions
• Say you are unsure
• Request additional supervision
• Decline unsafe instructions

Working beyond your competency or while exhausted can lead to injury or animal welfare concerns.