FAQ's
dog first aid FAQs

Dog First Aid Course FAQs

Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our dog firs aid training courses, including certification, course content, locations and what to expect on the day.

All training is delivered by a qualified, Registered Veterinary Nurse and designed to give you the skills and confidence to handle canine emergencies.

If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us — we’re always happy to help.

FAQs

Why should I choose The Dog First Aid Co.?

Our courses are written and taught exclusively by Registered Veterinary Nurses and are Ofqual regulated and CPD accredited. We provide practical, hands-on training based on real clinical experience, giving you the confidence to act in a canine emergency.

Where are you located?

Our public dog first aid courses are generally held at our training centre in Northumberland or Newcastle. We also provide dog first aid training across the UK for businesses and private groups upon request, depending on location and subject to availability. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and availability in your area.

Who is this dog first aid course suitable for?

Our courses are suitable for dog owners and pet professionals, including dog walkers, groomers, trainers, breeders, kennel staff, pet sitters, and dog handlers. Anyone responsible for a dog’s care will benefit from learning canine first aid.

How many people will be on the course?

We limit our dog first aid courses to a maximum of 12 participants per session to ensure every student receives individual support and hands-on practical training.

Small group sizes allow our Registered Veterinary Nurse instructors to provide personalised guidance and ensure you leave feeling confident performing essential dog first aid skills, including CPR and emergency care.

How do I find a course near me?

Our dog first aid courses are primarily held at our training centre in Northumberland or Newcastle, serving the North East of England and surrounding areas.

We can also deliver dog first aid training at your business or private location upon request. Availability depends on distance and course location, so please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Our courses are suitable for dog owners and pet professionals including groomers, trainers, walkers, and veterinary staff. You can view upcoming courses and book online via our Book a Course page, or contact us to arrange training near you.

How long will the course last?

Our dog first aid courses are delivered as full-day workshops lasting approximately 8 hours, including breaks. The course includes both practical, hands-on training and essential emergency first aid theory, ensuring you gain the knowledge and confidence to respond in a canine emergency.

For students completing the Ofqual regulated iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid, additional home study and assessment are required following the course.

What will I learn on the course?

You will learn how to recognise and respond to common canine emergencies, including CPR, choking, bleeding, seizures, poisoning, shock, wounds, and more. The course includes both practical, hands-on training and essential emergency theory.

Do I get a qualification for attending?

Yes. You will receive a CPD accredited Dog First Aid certificate upon successful completion of the course, demonstrating your knowledge and practical skills in canine emergency first aid.

You will also receive a digital certification badge, which can be displayed on your website, social media, marketing materials, and email signature to demonstrate your professional training and commitment to canine welfare.

For those requiring a regulated qualification, there is also the option to complete the iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid. This is an Ofqual regulated qualification, externally assessed, and valid for 3 years.

All training is delivered and overseen by Registered Veterinary Nurses, ensuring the highest professional standards.

Do I need any prior experience?

No prior experience is required. Our dog first aid courses are suitable for complete beginners as well as dog professionals. All training is delivered step-by-step by Registered Veterinary Nurses, ensuring you feel confident performing essential first aid skills.

Is the course taught by veterinary professionals?

Yes. All Dog First Aid Co. courses are taught exclusively by Registered Veterinary Nurses with real clinical and emergency experience.

Do you use real dogs?

We use specialist canine CPR manikins and professional training equipment to teach essential life-saving skills safely and effectively.

Where appropriate, real dogs may be present to help demonstrate handling, assessment, and practical first aid techniques. However, CPR and emergency procedures are always practised on dedicated training manikins to ensure safety and realism.

Can I bring my dog?

As much as we would love to meet your dog, our venues are not suitable for dogs to attend.

Having multiple dogs present can be distracting and may affect the learning environment, as well as the safety and comfort of both dogs and participants. The course is also a full-day session, which would be a long and potentially stressful experience for most dogs.

To ensure a safe, focused, and effective learning environment, we use specialist canine CPR manikins and training equipment for practical exercises.

How do I pay for a course?

You can book and pay for your dog first aid course securely online via our Book a Course page. Simply select your preferred course date and location to complete your booking.

We accept debit and credit card, Klarna, Clearpay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, giving you flexible and secure payment options, including the ability to spread the cost if preferred. Once booked, you will receive confirmation and full course details by email.

If you would like to arrange a private dog first aid course for your business or group, please contact us to discuss availability and booking options.

What do I need to wear on the course?

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and trainers, as the course includes practical, hands-on dog first aid training. You may be kneeling on the floor and working closely with training equipment, so please wear something you feel comfortable moving in — and don’t mind a few dog hairs on!

How long is the certificate valid?

Your CPD certificate and Ofqual regulated qualification are valid for 3 years. We recommend refresher training to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.

Book Your Dog First Aid Course

Gain the skills and confidence to handle real-life canine emergencies. Our Veterinary Nurse-led courses combine practical training, CPR guidance and expert instruction in a supportive setting.