VetSkill VTEC Award in Preventative Canine Dental Care and Oral Hygiene SCQF Level 7

£1.00

Qualification Number: R944 04

Qualification Number: R944 04

This qualification has been designed for learners working with canines in a professional capacity, holding either employed or voluntary positions. It is aimed at those who wish to expand their underpinning knowledge and practical skills to allow them to incorporate preventative canine dental care and oral hygiene within their role. 

The units within this qualification have been rigorously developed to include the essentials for working within the sector legally, professionally and ethically, whilst supporting the development of theoretical knowledge, complemented by the necessary practical skills and techniques. 

The job roles held by learners who may wish to register for the VetSkill VTEC Award in Preventative Canine Dental Care and Oral Hygiene SCQF Level 7 could include, but are not limited to:

  • Dog Grooming Assistants

  • Dog Groomers

  • Dog Walkers

  • Canine Hydrotherapists

  • Dog Day Care Providers

  • Kennel Assistants

Providing preventative canine dental care and oral hygiene involves the application of safe methods and techniques to keep the mouth healthy and prevent deterioration that can result in significant health and welfare issues. 

Preventative canine dental care and oral hygiene are not intended to substitute for essential regular assessment and treatment by a veterinary professional. The Veterinary Surgeons Act stipulates who is legally permitted to offer treatment to animals, including dental treatment. Learners will be assessed on the legal, ethical and professional roles and responsibilities, along with the scope of practice, for those who provide preventative dental care and the importance of dental assessment and treatment by veterinary professionals.

This Level 7 Award offers 9 credits.


  • Learners must have:

    A regulated SCQF Level 5 animal-related qualification and evidence that they are currently working within the animal care industry.

    OR

    A minimum of twelve (12) months experience of working within the animal care industry and evidence that they are currently working within the animal care industry.

    There are no other formal or specific academic or learning entry requirements for learners undertaking this programme. The nature of both the learning and assessment is such that basic literacy and numeracy skills are required.

  • Portfolio of Evidence

    Throughout the qualification, learners will compile a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate their knowledge, understanding and skills against the VetSkill assessment criteria. This is assessed and internally quality assured by the centre, and externally quality assured by VetSkill.

    Multiple-Choice Online Examination

    There is one synoptic multiple-choice examination. Examinations are set and marked by VetSkill.

    Practical Assessment

    Once all other assessments have been passed, learners will undertake a practical assessment. The Practical Assessment is set by VetSkill and marked by the centre.


Interested in delivering our qualifications?

If you are interested in becoming a VetSkill approved centre to deliver our qualifications, you can apply directly here. Alternatively, if you would like a chat with our Quality Assurance Team first, fill in our contact form or email us and someone will get in touch.