The Pet Industry Federation has launched a range of online courses aimed at people working with pets.

The 12 ‘Pet Handling & Welfare Courses’ are short courses covering a range of different taxa, including guinea pigs, ferrets, chinchillas, rats, cats and dogs. They have been developed by PIF to provide guidance and information to pet professionals and cover biological data, identifying breeds, handling and determining gender as well as correct care information.

The online format is convenient, reducing time away from the business; and helps keeps the costs low. Learners can track their progress by doing a short test at the end and, once they have passed the threshold, receive a certificate.

Nigel Baker, PIF’s Chief Executive said: "These courses offer people working in pet retail and with companion animals a quick and convenient way to refresh their knowledge and take on new information. Each course covers a broad range of health and welfare issues and they will  help retailers comply with the requirement in the Model Conditions for Pet Vending Licensing 2013 to ensure that staff have the appropriate training and knowledge in the care and welfare in the animals they stock."

The courses are available through ‘PIF Education’ at www.petfederation.co.uk and are priced at £40 per course – PIF members get a discount.