About International Open Academy

International Open Academy courses are designed for everyone - no formal qualifications are required to get started!

These courses are a practical, affordable option if you want to:

  • learn new pet-related skills
  • start a new career in the pet industry
  • bolster your pet industry resume

Here is the list of all International Open Academy courses related to pets. Take a look below the list for more details on each!

 

Course List

  1. Clothes and crafts for your pets
  2. Pet Adoption
  3. Pet Nutrition
  4. Pet First Aid & CPR
  5. Animal Training & Pet Sitting
  6. Care of the Senior Pet
  7. Animal Physical Therapy
  8. Dog Behavior & Training
  9. Animal Psychology
  10. Dog Training Essentials
  11. Animal Grooming
  12. Veterinary Support Assistant
  13. Dog Walking
  14. Dog Socialization and Obedience MasterClass
  15. Essential Cat and Kitten Care
  16. Loose Leash Dog Walking
  17. Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation
  18. Doggy Desserts
  19. Animal Care
  20. Careers with Animals

 

1. Clothes and Crafts for Your Pets

Clothes and Crafts for Your Pets

About the course

Are you ready to embark into the world of canine fashion? Would you like to create toys and games for your kitty? Have you been searching for the perfect halloween costume for Fido but just can't find it? Then this is the course for you!

In this course, you'll learn how to create fun, functional and fashionable clothing items for your pet. You'll also be taught dozens of ways to create toys from simple household items that are perfect for playing - and bonding - with your pet.

Course Content

In this course, you will learn:

  • How to turn old clothing into a new look
  • The best way to take measurements
  • Maximizing comfort
  • Creating toys that will last through hours of playtime
  • Making toys from common household items
  • Fun ideas for playtime

Who is this course for?

This course is for any creative pet parent who wants to spoil their beloved pet while saving money! There is no better way to keep costs down than to make your own items, especially when you can easily repurpose common household goods and create amazing fashion and fun toys!

View Course Details

 

 2. Pet Nutrition

Pet Nutrition

About the course

As the saying goes, “You are what you eat.” This is as true for our pets as it is for us. But with so many different diets and formulations on the shelves, the world of pet food may seem baffling and overwhelming.

This highly digestible course will help you understand your pet’s dietary needs and give a solid grounding in pet nutrition. The course helps you understand food labeling, how much and when to feed, and not forgetting our smaller furry (and scaly) friends as we pick a path through the maze of pet nutrition.

Food glorious food! You’re on safe ground spotting a steak is not a cabbage, but can you tell proteins, carbohydrates and fats from vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants? Learn nutritional aspects such as:

  • Food groups: What foods are made up of
  • Types of food: How commercial diets are packaged
  • Food labeling: Decode the small print
  • Know how much to feed

Understand Your Pet’s Nutritional Needs

A dog has different nutritional needs to a cat, which is different to a rabbit. Indeed, don’t stop there because birds, fish, and reptiles all have specific needs. Learn about:

  • Different types of digestion: Herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores
  • Life stage feeding: Youngster, adult, or senior pet
  • Matching lifestyle to nutrition: How to feed the active animal, for pregnancy or lactation
  • Why a cat isn’t a small dog
  • Mealtimes vs ad lib feeding
  • Avoiding fussy eaters

The Weighty Matter of Weight

It’s official: Lean animals live longer.

Learn how to assess your pet’s weight and then diet them for longer life:

  • Body score your pet
  • Feeding for painless weight loss
  • What every overweight diabetic cat should know

Food and Ill Health

Food choices cut both ways: It causes ill health and it can cure it. Learn:

  • Signs of dietary allergy or food intolerance
  • How to put your pet on a hypoallergenic diet
  • Foods to improve renal, liver, heart, dental, and urinary disease

An appropriate, good quality diet is vital for our pets’ health and longevity but do you truly what you’re feeding them? If you can’t put your hand on your heart and say “Yes,” then this course helps you to ask, and answer, the right questions about feeding.

Course Content

Learn how to switch diets without upsetting your pet’s tummy, and weigh up the pros and cons of various diets such as:

  • Raw meaty bones
  • A homemade diet
  • Supermarket food
  • Veterinary approved diets
  • Prescription diets

Learn the crucial importance of an unprocessed high fiber diet to your rabbit’s health and well-being. Also, how to feed the following for optimal health:

  • Rabbits
  • Guinea pigs
  • Hamsters, gerbils, rats, and mice
  • Birds,
  • Fish
  • Tortoises, turtles, and terrapins
  • Reptiles, including snakes.

Who is this course for?

This course will be of great interest to animal lovers and professionals in the pet care industry who would like to better understand the nutritional needs of animals, how to properly care for pets, and to any learner who is interested in pet care as a future industry to work in. This is also a great resource for those who would like to own animals and want to provide the highest level of care for their pets.

View Course Details

 

3.  Pet Adoption

About the course

  • Get the practicalities right about winning her trust, changing her name, building confidence, play, exercise and training
  • Find out how to avoid some common behavioral issues so you don’t feel frustrated because you understand what she’s going through
  • Through our easy-to-follow modules, you'll be prepared for the new arrival and how to settle her in
  • Have a better knowledge of animals, then you can break bad habits and set the ground rules
  • Become a better pet parent by helping her through any issues while understanding the importance of mental and physical stimulation

Course Content

  • Preparation And Planning
  • Bringing A New Pet Home
  • Settling In
  • Introductions And Bonding
  • Best Paw Forwards

    Who is this course for?

    • Everyone who is planning to adopt a pet - from a dog to a snake - will be better prepared to welcome their new friend into their home
    • People working or volunteering at shelterscan learn more about rescue animals’ behavior
    • People who handle animals, such as pet sitters or walkers, will have a greater understanding of their special needs, giving their parents more confidence in you

    View Course Details

     

    4. Pet First Aid & CPR

    Pet First Aid & CPR

    About the course

    Every pet owner or professional working with animals should know how to perform first aid. From cut pads, insect stings, and snake-bites, to chocolate poisoning, traffic accidents and choking, the unexpected can and does happen to the pets in our care. This comprehensive course equips you with the expertise to handle these situations and many others besides. In addition, you learn how to assess the patient and prioritize the most life-threatening problems.

    Course Content

    Be Prepared:

    • What to have in a first aid box
    • Know where the emergency vet clinic is
    • Acquire first aid training

    Types of First Aid

    • Conditions you can treat at home
    • Recognizing emergencies
    • Stabilizing a patient until help arrives

    Taking Control in a First Aid Situation

    • Keeping safe: How to restrain a patient in pain
    • Assessing the patient
    • Prioritizing the most life-threatening problem

    Do No Harm

    • Human medications: What you can and can’t give
    • Pet medications: How much and when?
    • When to contact the vet

    Techniques:

    • Bandaging
    • Nursing skills
    • Treating shock

    CPR

    • Summary flowchart of what to do
    • What to do when the pet’s not breathing
    • What to do when there’s no heart beat

    First Aid

    • A comprehensive A-Z list of all major first aid eventualities
    • What to do and what to avoid
    • Cross referenced conditions

    Who is this course for?

    This course is ideal for:

    • Pet owners wanting to educate themselves on proper first aid
    • Animal lovers interested in learning more about medicine and exploring the basics of veterinary medicine 
    • Those interested in a career as a vet tech, veterinary doctor, or veterinary support assistant
    • Anyone interested in working with animals in any of the many jobs in the animal care industry

    View Course Details

     

    5. Animal Training & Pet Sitting

    About the course

    We look at life with a pet from their point of view as well as yours. This course helps you understand what’s behind actions, reactions and dispositions. We outline behaviour modification advice and training that respects your pets’ natural instincts and inherent natures. To lighten things up, we also include guidelines for tricks and games.

    Course Content

    This course teaches you a comprehensive range of approaches and disciplines including how to:

    • Teach basic commands and obedience.
    • Train puppies using positive reinforcement.
    • Deal with problem behaviors like barking, biting, urine marking and jumping up.
    • Make litter box use a success.
    • Use clicker training to instil boundaries with your cat.
    • Train your cat not to jump on furniture.
    • Socialize your bird around people, other pets & other birds.
    • Condition your bird to handling and train to return to his perch.

    Gain expertise in all aspects of pet sitting

    This course takes you through all the skills and knowledge you need to be able to step into pet owners shoes in their absence. As well as learning how to care for all kinds of needs in different species of animal and fish, you’ll be educated on things like safety and security, handling a crisis and when to look for help.

    Some of the topics you’ll learn:

    • How to take a group of dogs on a peaceful, fun filled walk
    • Steps to prevent the spread of disease
    • Level of hygiene needed
    • Keeping pets safe
    • Necessary amounts of exercise and nutrition
    • Preserving security on your clients premises
    • Dealing with an aggressive pet, restraints and equipment
    • Handling unusual pets
    • First aid and when to call a vet
    • Grooming
    • Special considerations for birds, fish and reptiles
    • Caring for hamsters, gerbils, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits etc.

    Start your dog walking and pet sitting business

    We’ll also give you a head start on how to turn your training into a business, with useful advice like:

    • Setting up an arrangement with a new client
    • Micro chipping and other methods of ID
    • Your business responsibilities
    • Finance and insurance
    • Regulations

    Who is this course for?

    Those interested in exploring the fulfilling and challenging career of pet sitting, dog walking, and animal training. Whether a pet owner or someone interested in the pet care industry, this course will allow the learner to reach new levels in pet care. 

    View Course Details

     

    6. Care of the Senior Pet

    About the course

    “Care of the Older Pet” is an invaluable guide for the concerned pet parent who wishes their senior pet to get the most out of life.

    This course is all about keeping your pet healthy, happy, and active into their senior years

    Old dogs and old cats are more prone to health problems and this course helps you understand the signs and symptoms, as well as treatment options. But “Care of the Older Pet” doesn’t shy away from tackling important issues such as judging quality of life and knowing when to say that final goodbye.

    Course Content

    This course gives you an understanding of the aging process in cats and dogs, and practical tips on how to give them a comfortable, stimulating, and enjoyable old age so they stay fitter for longer.

    You’ll learn coping strategies for pets with disabilities such as blindness, deafness, and loss of mental ability. It alerts you to the special needs of senior pets in areas such as diet, exercise, grooming, and healthcare.

    The course includes a module on pain management, arthritis, and adapting the home to help the older pet with mobility problems.

    Who is this course for?

    This course is essential reading if you are:

    • The pet parent of an ageing cat or dog who wishes to plan ahead for an active old age
    • An owner who wants to keep their older pet fitter for longer
    • A pet parent struggling to cope with a senior pet’s needs, such as senile behavior
    • An owner wishing to improve their older pet’s quality of life and keep them comfortable
    • Owners who want to better understand their pet’s age-related health problems
    • Those struggling to come to terms with knowing when it’s time to say a final goodbye

    View Course Details

     

    7. Animal Physical Therapy

    Animal Physical Therapy

    About the course

    When your furball is injured, you would do anything to help. You want to relieve the pain. It hurts to see them limping or walking stiffly, agonizingly slowly.

    What’s the best way to help? How can you put the spring back in your pet’s step? 

    Animal physical therapy is a hands-on, natural rehabilitation treatment to get those muscles and limbs working again. In this online course, you will see how physiotherapy uses physical methods - massage and exercise  -  to restore lost movement.

    You’ll be shown the correct techniques to treat different parts of the body. Enjoy quality, hands-on time with your dog or cat as you massage away pain and exercise limbs to restore strength.

    Confidently complement the work of your vet or animal physiotherapist to offer at-home treatments for your own pets to ease:

    • arthritis
    • sore muscles
    • back problems
    • knees, elbows and other limbs
    • hip dysplasia
    • recovery after surgery
    • stiffness in older pets

     It’s fun for both of you and helps your furball feel better. We will walk you through everything you need to know about Animal Physical Therapy in easy-to-understand, jargon-free language.

    For immediate, natural relief for pets, study this course now.

    Course Content

    The skills you will master in this course include:

    • How to improve the mobility of specific joints (such as the elbow, hip, or knee) in a safe and sympathetic way
    • Reading the signs of pain in cats and dogs
    • Learning gentle exercises appropriate for animals with stiff joints due to conditions such as arthritis or an old injury (Working with the co-operation of your vet.)
    • Learn specific exercises for specific joints
    • Hints and tips for how to help your older pet moving around the home with more confidence, using ramps and assistive devices.
    • How to perform massage techniques on your pet to build muscle strength and help them relax. This includes effleurage, kneading, percussion, and also passive movement exercises
    • Knowing when physiotherapy could help your pet and recognizing when to avoid it
    • Learn easy and enjoyable exercises you can do at home to build your pet’s strength whilst having fun together
    • Know how to use heat therapy to relieve the nagging pain of a sore joint
    • Understand which nutritional supplements are most beneficial to your pet
    • Have an improved knowledge of dog anatomy
    • Know how and when to get your pet referred to a veterinary physiotherapist

    Who is this course for?

    This course is a perfect match for you if:

    • You have an stiff, older pet or one recovering after enforced rest, and you want to help them get back on their paws
    • You are curious about different forms of physiotherapy, such as massage, hydrotherapy, passive movement, and heat; their benefits, how they work, and how they help the body to heal
    • You want to understand about nutritional supplements that improve and protect joint health, and keep your pet supple in years to come.
    • You want to learn safe exercises to do at home that are fun and improve your pet’s quality of life
    • You want to understand what a veterinary physiotherapist is, when it’s appropriate to consult one, and how to go about getting referred
    • You wonder if your pet is in pain and want to recognize the signs in your cat or dog

    View Course Details

     

    8. Dog Behavior & Training

    Dog Behavior & Training

    About the course

    Learn practical training skills, how to correct bad behaviors, and advanced training techniques for making you and your dog happy

    Get inside your dog’s mind to reap the results of reward-based dog training. Through an understanding of dog psychology you move onto motivating your best buddy using rewards and how to cope with bad behavior, as well as learning a lexicon of basic commands.

    Course Content

    Included in the course is how to crate train and how to clicker train. In addition you’ll understand the motivation behind problem behaviors such as barking and digging, and learn how to correct them. And finally, the ‘Advanced commands’ teaches you vital training cues that give you control in tricky situations.

    Who is this course for?

    This course will be of great interest to animal lovers and professionals in the pet care industry who would like to better understand the behaviour of dogs, how to properly care for and train dogs, and to any learner who is interested in pet care as a future industry to work in.

    This is also a great resource for those who would like to own dogs and want to provide the highest level of care for their pets.

    View Course Details

     

    9. Animal Psychology

    Animal Psychology

    About the course

    Learning what’s normal and what’s behind unusual or undesirable behavior really helps to get to grips with it. In this course, you’ll also discover how to treat habits and reactions that are not good for your pet or for you, like:

    • How to choose and locate a litter tray your kitty is happy to use.
    • What to do if your dog growls to guard his food bowl.
    • Recognizing boredom and what you can do to help
    • How to stop a dog jumping up on people
    • Reducing separation anxiety in pets
    • Tricks to reduce a fearful, habitual reaction to stimuli

    Would you like to train your pet not to …

    • Mark his territory?
    • Chew furniture?
    • Knock over children?
    • Whine?
    • Frighten the postman?
    • Bite?

    Once you understand what’s normal for an animal and why pets behave as they do, you’ll find it easier to find a solution. It is possible to resolve or vastly reduce the most disruptive behavior. Don’t waste another day with an unhappy pet situation – start this course today and get back to that warm, fuzzy in-love-with-my-pet feeling.

    We love our pets!

    Course Content

    This pet psychology course answers questions like:

    • How do I train my pet not to urinate in inappropriate places?
    • Why does my dog bury his food?
    • What does it mean when my cat shouts?
    • How can I stop incessant barking?
    • Why does my dog attack certain breeds and not others?
    • Is it normal for a cat to groom itself all day?
    • Why does my dog roll in disgusting fox poo?
    • How can I reassure my anxious rabbit?
    • What does it mean when a dog eats grass?

    Who is this course for?

    This course will be of great interest to animal lovers and professionals in the pet care industry who would like to better understand the behaviour of animals, how to properly care for pets, and to any learner who is interested in pet care as a future industry to work in. 

    View Course Details

     

    10. Dog Training Essentials

    Dog Training Essentials

    About the course

    This course is taught by certified professional dog trainer, Ian Stone, who has over 10 years experience working in animal welfare. He will guide you step-by-step through fundamental concepts, basic training commands, behavior problems, as well as some games and tricks! Whether you have a puppy, newly adopted dog from a shelter or an older dog who needs some behavioral training - everything in this course can be applied to canine friends of any age!

    Course Content

    During this course you'll learn:

    • what hardware to use
    • fundamental concepts
    • how your dog learns
    • how to keep your dog engaged and focused
    • basic behaviors
    • simple commands (sit, stay, down)
    • how to walk on a leash
    • food handling
    • potty training
    • puppy biting
    • toy training
    • common behavioral problems
    • games / tricks
    • troubleshooting strategies

    Who is this course for?

    This course is for anyone who wants to build a stronger bond with their pet and provide the highest level of training to improve their life. Whether you just brought home a new puppy, adopted a shelter dog or live with an older dog who never got properly trained this course is perfect for you.

    How will it help me?

    This course takes the stress out of having to be somewhere at a specific time each week for dog training. It allows you to properly train from the comfort of your own home. Understand how your pet thinks and keep their attention to basic commands and common behavioral problems. Professional dog trainer Ian Stone takes you step-by-step with video of real dogs to show you how to properly train your furry friend and how to have fun while doing so!
    Here are some benefits to training your dog:
    • improve the life of your pet
    • strengthen your bond together
    • create a fun and enjoyable activity
    • decrease and eliminate behavior issues
    • save your dog from potentially dangerous situations
    • provides enrichment and stimulates your dog's brain
    • builds confidence in shy and fearful dogs
    • creates less work for you in the future

    View Course Details

     

    11. Animal Grooming

    Animal Grooming

    About the course

    Dog grooming has come a long way since the 1st century BC when dogs were sheared like sheep. It wasn’t until the 18th century Paris that the idea of clipping for fashion, rather than function, came into being. But with Holly and Hugo you have the latest clips for reference, and will never be lost for style, whether your client is a Poodle or a Samoyed.

    When setting up a grooming business the course helps you:

    • Decide what equipment to buy

    • Learn how to safely restrain animals

    • Keep yourself safe

    • Keep you clients safe

    • Maintain good hygiene practises

    • Understand the correct way to shampoo and bathe dogs

    • Clip claws without tears

    • Know the traditional clips for different dog breeds

    Enroll today and unleash your inner groomer!

    Course Content

    In this course, you will know all the steps to safely prepare a dog for grooming. Learn:

    • Health and safety procedures for you, your staff and your furballs

    • How to handle dogs before, during and after grooming

    • Common skin, eye, ear and teeth disorders to look out for  

    • Equipment you'll need to clip, cut and comb hair

    • How to properly wash dogs with different hair types - long, curly or short

    • Grooming needs of different pedigrees and mixed breeds 

    • First-aid techniques you may need as it's better to be safe than sorry

    Who is this course for?

    This course will be of great interest to animal lovers and professionals in the pet care industry who would like to better understand the grooming of dogs, how to properly care for the dogs in your care, and to any learner who is interested in dog grooming as a future career.

    View Course Details

     

    12. Veterinary Support Assistant

    About the course

    This course is of benefit to anyone with an interest in animal health, working with animals, or wondering if a career in the veterinary environment is right for them. It includes an overview of how veterinary practice works, health and safety, basic anatomy and physiology, animal handling techniques, first aid, and coping with emergency situations as well as emotional issues such as euthanasia.

    Learn Core Skills Such As:

    Anybody who comes into regular contact with animals be that in a kennel, rescue center, or a vet clinic, benefits from learning and understanding key aspects such as:

    • Veterinary terminology

    • Handling dogs, cats, small mammals, and exotics

    • Animal psychology – interpreting signs of stress or pain

    • Handling the fractious animal safely

    • How to gently restrain animals for minor procedures

    • The importance of disinfection and disease control

    • Monitoring inpatients, such as taking vital signs and record keeping

    • Basic animal anatomy and physiology

    • Health and Safety regulations

    • Feeding animals – both healthy and sick

    The Role of VSA within Veterinary Practice: When you are in an unfamiliar environment, a veterinary practice can seem a busy, confusing, and intimidating place. The course equips you with information to help you find your feet quickly and make the most of the experience.

    • The structure of veterinary practice

    • Different roles within the veterinary team

    • Confidentiality and professionalism

    • How to learn on the job

    • People skills such as dealing with anxious clients and booking appointments

    • Understanding common procedures

    • Be familiar with commonly used equipment

    The Emotional Side Pets are family members, and when faced with a hard decision in the best interests of their pet’s welfare, many owners become very emotional. The course helps you understand how to deal with this distress, what to expect when a pet is euthanized, and the practicalities involved afterwards. Handling Emergencies There may be occasions when you are faced with a pet in urgent need for emergency treatment. The course teaches you how to act whilst waiting for help to arrive

    • Assessing the patient

    • The principles of resuscitation

    • Emergency stabilisation of haemorrhage, breathing difficulties, fractures etc.

    • First aid

    • Your role during an emergency

    Working with animals is a hugely rewarding career. Whether you aspire to work in veterinary practice or at a shelter, or wish to investigate the commitment involved, this course gives a sound grounding in the core skills involved.

    Course Content

    Anybody who comes into regular contact with animals be that in a kennel, rescue center, or a vet clinic, benefits from learning and understanding key aspects such as:

    • Veterinary terminology

    • Handling dogs, cats, small mammals, and exotics

    • Animal psychology – interpreting signs of stress or pain

    • Handling the fractious animal safely

    • How to gently restrain animals for minor procedures

    • The importance of disinfection and disease control

    • Monitoring inpatients, such as taking vital signs and record keeping

    • Basic animal anatomy and physiology

    • Health and Safety regulations

    • Feeding animals – both healthy and sick

    Who is this course for?

    Anybody who comes into regular contact with animals be that in a kennel, rescue center, or a vet clinic would benefit from this course. Those who are considering a career as a Veterinary Technician would be able to get a glimpse into the challenging and rewarding work in the Veterinary and Animal care industries.

    View Course Details

     

    13. Dog Walking

    Dog Walking

    About the course

    This in-depth course covers everything you need to know to start a successful career as a dog walker! You’ll expand your knowledge of dog training and psychology while gaining useful skills. Through this course, you will learn how to safely interact with all temperaments of dogs, from reading body language to calming anxiety. Take your love of dogs and turn it into a money-making business! Working towards an accredited course will show your customers that you’re the best person for the job.

    Course Content

    In this course, you’ll learn basic and advanced principles of dog walking, from equipment safety to breaking up dog fights. Our in-depth modules on training and psychology will keep your charges safe, and make dog walking a walk in the park! You’ll also find a full module covering the first aid that every pet professional must know. Finally, we teach you how to set up your own dog walking business, from finances to advertising. Overall, you will gain professional skills to boost your career by studying an internationally-recognized ICOES and CPD course.

    Who is this course for?

    This course is ideal for pet sitters, dog walkers and other professionals who want to impress their current clients and attract new ones. If you’re interested in turning your passion into a profitable career or gain a competitive edge over rival businesses through increased knowledge of animal behavior and business planning, then this is the course for you!

    View Course Details

     

    14. Dog Socialization and Obedience MasterClass

    Dog Socialization and Obedience MasterClass

    About the course

    This course will empower you to be your own dog behaviorist and training guru. When you work hands-on with your dog on training and obedience, it strengthens your bond and builds trust. Trainers and schools are expensive, stressful, and don’t always give you long-lasting results – because your dog is performing as opposed to learning. When you can correct your dog’s behavior, teach them new skills, and give them challenges, your dog will have more respect for you as a leader, and more love for you as an owner.

    By the end of the course, you’ll be able to work directly with your dog to fix those bad behaviors, and you’ll recognize signs of future problems. We want you to have a long and happy life with your doggy pal, so enroll today and start working your magic!

    Course Content

    Our online course is suitable for everyone, of any experience level, and will teach you strong leadership skills and obedience tips that anyone can master. 

    • We start by training YOU as an owner.  We’re going to show you how your behavior, energy, the tone of voice, and body language affects your dog – both positively and negatively.

    • Then you’ll get inside your dog’s head to understand what’s causing their bad behavior. Is it a natural instinct? A response to change in their environment? An emotional reaction? Dogs are complex and think differently than humans.

    • You’ll learn how to interpret and recognize dog psychology, communication, and body language to understand what your dog is trying to express

    • We’ll take you through correcting many different types of behavior problems, starting with the “WHY” before we teach you the “HOW”. 

    • You'll learn how to properly socialize your dog so they play nice with others - with other dogs, pets, and humans. 

    • You’ll be able to reform your dog’s emotional issues, such as aggression, anxiety, fear, and insecurity, and fix the bad behaviors that come as a result of these issues – destruction, biting, soiling, guarding, howling, etc.

    • We’ll also show you how to improve your dog’s obedience so they walk nicely on lead, come when they’re called, and can follow basic commands. You’ll learn effective teaching methods using dog training collars, clickers and crate training.

    Who is this course for?

    If you’ve experienced any of the following, this course is for you!

    • Has your dog suddenly developed a bad habit that you just can’t fix?

    • Does your dog show signs of social anxiety, fear, or aggression?

    • Is your dog suddenly soiling inside the home or having issues with housebreaking?

    • Is your dog destructive when left alone, or shows signs of separation anxiety?

    • Does your dog have issues with dominance, guarding, or biting?

    • Is your dog having trouble with recall, walking on lead, and basic obedience?

    View Course Details

     

    15. Essential Cat and Kitten Care

    Essential Cat and Kitten Care

    About the course

    Everything you need to know about cat and kitten care, including how to choose the right cat, training, nutrition, grooming and healthcare. A complete overview for anyone who works with cats, is thinking of getting a cat, or already owns one. 

    Course Content

    The practical skills you will gain from this course:

    • Pick the Right Cat: Understand what type of cat (ie purebred vs shelter, adult vs kitten, indoor vs outdoor animal) is best for you and feel confident about choosing the pick of the litter

    • Introduce Cats: Know cat body language and the no-hiss way to introduce a new cat to your existing fur-friends

    • Keep your Cat Healthy: Understand basic cat facts such as the preventative healthcare your cat needs and how to keep them physically and mentally fit and well

    • Be Confident about Cat Food and Feeding: Make informed decisions about feeding your cat for optimal good health

    • Grooming and Coat Care: Feel confident about clipping claws and keeping your cat’s coat in pristine condition

    • Cat Communication: Understand what cat body language is telling you about their mood and how this can help you get along together

    • Prevent Boredom: Know how to channel a cat’s natural instinct to climb and scratch, in order to prevent boredom and the cat from becoming destructive

    • Cat Behavior: Understand the importance of play for a cat’s well-being, and how a cat uses their senses to read the world around them

    • Litter Box Best Practice: House soiling can sour a good relationship, so learn how to make a litter box irresistible to decrease the chance of inappropriate toileting.

    Who is this course for?

    Whether you are a first time owner or experienced cat guardian, this course is purr-fect if you want to:

    • Understand the essentials of feline preventative healthcare, including the latest news on heartworm in cats.

    • Have an appetite to understand cat food and feeding, such as what to feed, how, and when for optimal good health.

    • Learn practical cat facts such as how to groom, clip claws, and bathe your cat

    • Decode cat body language, behavior, and communication into something you understand

    • Prevent boredom and channel antisocial behaviors, such as climbing or scratching, into less destructive activities

    • Uncover the secrets of good cat litter box habits so that house soiling becomes less likely

    View Course Details

     

    16. Loose Leash Dog Walking

    LOOSE LEASH DOG WALKING

    About the course

    Taking your dog for walks conjures up wonderful images of romping through parks and enjoying quality time together. 

    But what if you secretly dread walking the dog? Do you find excuses not to head outside for much-needed exercise for you and your furball? Your dog pulls so hard on the leash you fear he’ll pull your arm off. Walking the dog is hard work!

    Not only that, leash pulling is hazardous because: 

    • Your pooch could pull extra hard and pull you over

    • You’re not in control of your four-legged friend who could:

      •  jump up at strangers

      • leap out at cars  

      • lunge forward and eat something nasty off the ground

    • If the leash is attached to his collar, your furball can hurt his throat, gag and choke whenever he pulls

    • Constant pulling can cause injury to your shoulder or back

    With our friendly dog trainer Ian Stone, you’ll soon have your puppy or older dog under control. In his easy-to-follow videos, you’ll learn how to teach a dog to walk on a leash. That means:

    • You’ll feel confident walking your better-behaved dog

    • Your furball will know you’re keeping him safe and trust you more 

    • You’ll enjoy spending more time with your pooch because walks become more pleasurable

    • Your dog is healthier because they are getting more exercise; enjoying more mental stimuli from exploring new places; and is too tired to get bored (and we all know the chaos that bored dogs can cause!)

    • Walking your dog is fantastic for your health too. Dog owners walk an average of 300 minutes per week compared with 168 minutes per week for non-owners, according to a Canadian study

    • Other dog walkers will want to know your dog leash training secrets because your dog is so good on a leash

    Enjoy a happier, healthier relationship with your dogs. Start dog leash training with Ian Stone now.

    Course Content

    Fun dog training techniques to teach a dog to walk on a leash. In this course you’ll:

    • Meet the trainer and have an overview of the dog leash training course

    • Get the equipment you need before you start dog training, including different types of harnesses and leashes to find the right ones for your pooch

    • Use food to teach your dog

    • Handle different training stages before taking your dog for a walk, including:

      • walking with your dog and with the leash over the shoulder

      • moving on to walking with the leash in front of you

      • the correct way to hold a leash

      • teaching your dog heel-sits - the power move when you’re out in public

      • teaching your dog to say hello to people who want to pet him while you’re out and about

    • Then you get to use this training outside, where your dog has more distractions

    • Find out how to make walks mentally and physically stimulating as well as dynamic and fun

    With dog trainer Ian Stone by your side, you’ll enjoy quality time with your dog while together you learn leash training.

    Who is this course for?

    • All dog guardians who want walks to be fun, not frustrating. Build a stronger trust between you and your dog while enjoying lots of healthy exercise together

    • Whether you have a new puppy, adopted a shelter dog, or live with an older dog who does not walk nicely, this course is perfect for you

    • Everyone who walks dogs from time to time. Out-of-control dogs can be a danger to themselves, other people and traffic. Loose leash training helps to keep them safe

    • People who work or volunteer in animal rescue centers or shelters. Dogs pulling on the leash is one of the most common behavioral problems and could be the reason why a pet ends up in a shelter. Well-trained dogs are more likely to find their happy, forever home

    • Dog walkers and pet sitters can win the admiration of their clients by training furballs to walk politely on a leash

    View Course Details

     

    17. Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation

    Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation

    About the course

    You may have stumbled upon an injured or orphaned animal in your backyard or on a nature hike, or you may live in an area that frequently sees forest fires, oil spills, storms, or deforestation. In all these cases, knowledge of wildlife rehabilitation or wild animal rescue can be crucial to saving an animal’s life. You don’t need any prior veterinary knowledge, as this course will start with the basics and cover a lot of groundwork. You’ll learn about responsible wildlife interaction, animal anatomy, and physiology, how to treat injuries in birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish, how to assist in environmental disasters, and how to safely handle, transport and release wildlife.

    Whether you just love animals and want to be more involved, or you are looking to volunteer or work in a park, nature reserve or zoo, we’ll equip you with the knowledge and training to prepare you for wildlife rehabilitation.

    Course Content

    By the end of this course, you’ll come away knowing the fundamentals of wildlife rehabilitation.

    • We’ll show you exactly what a wildlife rehabilitator does in their day to day work

    • You’ll be able to identify animals in distress and know when to step in

    • You’ll learn animal physiology and basic anatomy for a variety of animal classes

    • We’ll teach you to assess animals and identify symptoms and causes of distress

    • You’ll be able to treat common injuries such as broken limbs and wings

    • We’ll prepare you for environmental disasters, such as oil spills or forest fires

    • We’ll show you how to safely handle, restrain, transport, and release wildlife

    • And you’ll learn what you can do to assist in your community

    It’s important to note that this course is not equivalent to professional certification as wildlife rehabilitator, but it’s an excellent place to start if you have a personal interest in this area or are thinking of a career in animal care, zoology, parks and recreation, or veterinary science.

    Who is this course for?

    This course is perfect for you if:

    • You love animals and want to do what you can to help

    • You are looking for a way to feel more connected with nature

    • You’re okay with getting your hands dirty!

    • You’re considering a career working in a park or wildlife rehabilitation center

    • You want to educate others about interacting with wildlife

    View Course Details

     

    18. Doggy Desserts

    Doggy Desserts

    About the course

    This course is brought to you by a dog owner who had a lot of concerns and problems when it came to feeding her dog due to an illness. She wanted to share her recipes with the world and help other dog owners to provide yummy treats for their lovable pets without causing them harm. The recipes in this course are versatile and can be altered based on your dog's needs.

    Course Content

    From this course you'll learn:

    • how to make over 100 treats that'll save you money and be healthier for your dog

    • what ingredients to avoid when feeding your dog

    • more about your dog's nutritional needs

    • how to provide more variety in your dog's food

    • if your dog has any apparent allergies or sensitivites

    Who is this course for?

    This course is for anyone who has a dog with health problems, such as diabetes, weight problems, allergies, sensitive stomachs and for anyone who just wants to provide better nutrition for their dog that is safer and tastier (and that'll save you money)!

    View Course Details


     

    19. Animal Care

    Animal Care

    About the course

    Know your pet intimately before getting intimate

    Every pet owner knows how intriguing and complex animals can be. Each creature is endearingly individual and full of surprises.

    Taking care of all aspects of a pet’s life can be a tricky business. Cats can be spirited and mysterious. Dogs can be untameable but adorable. Before we get you to the hands on part of their personal care we spend a lot of time taking you through their psychology so you fully understand their habits, instincts and development first.

    4 legs, 2 legs or no legs at all!

    All kinds of pets need specific care for their type and we include care on many commonly loved creatures:

    • For rabbits & guinea pigs we help you understand the living environment and exercise that’s ideal, take you through common problems and diseases and how to give the best care.

    • As well as how to care for hamsters, gerbils, mice & exotic rats, we help you understand their behaviour and how breeds differ.

    • Birds need special understanding, from small to large, parrots to birds of prey. Learn about traits, common diseases and how to prevent spread.

    • Keeping fish as pets needs careful attention. Discover best practice so you maintain clean and healthy species.

    • For those of you who love reptiles, we delve into the world of snakes, lizards, turtles, terrapins & tortoises and outline some common challenges & solutions.

    Once you can see things from a pet’s point of view, you’re better equipped to give them a comfortable life and develop a harmonious relationship that’s fulfilling for you and them.

    Get started today and awaken your animal instincts!

    Course Content

    You’ll discover the answers to questions like:

    • What’s normal behaviour for a dog?

    • What level of understanding does my young cat have?

    • Are certain traits specific to some breeds?

    • What is my puppy trying to communicate to me?

    • What do those strange cat sounds mean?

    What’s going on with my pet?

    We’ll also give you good insight into what can cause a pet to be unhappy or stressed with topics like:

    • Eating disorders

    • Excess scratching

    • Aggression

    • Separation anxiety

    • Soiling

    Who is this course for?

    This course will be of great interest to animal lovers and professionals in the pet care industry who would like to better understand the behaviour of animals, how to properly care for pets, and to any learner who is interested in pet care as a future industry to work in.

    This is also a great resource for those who would like to own animals and want to provide the highest level of care for their pets. 

    View Course Details

     

    20. Careers with Animals

    Careers with Animals

     

    About the course

    Now is your chance to put into action a career working with animals! This course is ideal for anyone with an aptitude for animals who wishes to turn their dreams into reality. It will help you discover where your strengths and talents lie and then brainstorm jobs that match your capabilities.

    You will learn how to uncover employment opportunities you hadn’t previously considered, and how to apply for those jobs to maximize your chances of success. From brainstorming a vague idea to uncovering amazing opportunities, this course also helps you achieve your aim by learning how to research your chosen path.

    Know that there is huge competition for positions within the animal or pet sector, and to maximize your chances it’s essential to impress. To do this you’ll discover how to hone your portfolio and letter of application to create an outstanding impression with the interview panel, selection committee or prospective client.

    In addition, you’ll find a comprehensive directory of careers in the animal health, pet, and animal-related sectors; what those jobs entail and the qualifications needed. From understanding how to apply to vet school and increase your chance of receiving an offer, to training as an animal nutritionist through to a zookeeper, a Career with Animals has so much to offer you. This course will help those with a genuine calling to work with animals to reach that goal.

    Course Content

    By taking this course you will:

    • Learn how to discover opportunities that hadn’t previously occurred to you
    • Have realistic expectations about what working with animals involves
    • Know how to research a particular job, plus the skills and qualifications needed
    • Make your application or business standout from the crowd to give you a head start on the competition
    • Know how to apply to vet school
    • Understand the value of experience and how to get it at little cost or even get paid!

    Who is this course for?

    This course is designed to empower:

    • People contemplating a career change, but who are uncertain what opportunities are out there
    • Students planning to apply to vet school
    • Those people with a calling to work with animals, but don’t know in what capacity and wish to clarify their thinking
    • People wanting to weigh the pros and cons of a career with animals
    • Applicants who wish to create a standout application in their chosen field
    • Anyone wondering how to find out what experience is needed to enter a specific career or job

    View Course Details

    =====================================================================================================================

    Why choose International Open Academy

    • 1 million+ students

    • Presence in 139 countries

    • 95% Happy customers

    • 24/7 Access

    Requirements

    International Open Academy courses are designed for anyone with an interest in learning. No formal qualifications are required to study with us. Our courses are suitable if you want to learn new skills, start a new career, or if you’re already working in a particular industry and wish to upgrade your talents and enhance your resume.

    Certification

    To receive certification, you must:

    • Complete every page of the course

    • Score at least 55% on the exam at the end of the course

    Accreditation

    For further details, please visit https://internationalopenacademy.com/accreditation