Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal)

Learning Objectives

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 4 Award for Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal) :

Principles of Animal Health, Welfare, and Preventive Care

• Demonstrate understanding of the fundamental principles of animal health and welfare
• Identify common companion animal diseases, parasites, and conditions requiring preventive care
• Explain the importance of nutrition, vaccination, and parasite control in maintaining health
• Recognise early signs of illness and advise clients on appropriate next steps
• Apply welfare standards and ethical considerations when advising on animal care
• Promote responsible ownership and preventive healthcare practices to clients
• Evaluate the impact of preventive programmes on animal wellbeing and public health
• Reflect on the role of SQPs in supporting long‑term animal welfare

Veterinary Medicines Regulation, Compliance, and SQP Responsibilities

• Understand the legal framework governing veterinary medicines in the UK and internationally
• Differentiate between medicine categories (POM‑VPS, NFA‑VPS, AVM‑GSL) and their supply requirements
• Apply regulatory standards when prescribing and supplying companion animal medicines
• Demonstrate knowledge of SQP responsibilities, including record‑keeping and client communication
• Recognise the importance of pharmacovigilance and reporting adverse reactions
• Ensure compliance with professional codes of conduct and ethical obligations
• Evaluate the consequences of non‑compliance for animal welfare, client trust, and professional standing
• Contribute to maintaining high standards of safety and accountability in veterinary medicine supply

Prescribing, Supplying, and Advising on Companion Animal Medicines

• Conduct structured client consultations to assess animal health needs
• Recommend appropriate medicines within the SQP scope of practice
• Safely prescribe and supply POM‑VPS and NFA‑VPS medicines for companion animals
• Communicate clearly with clients about dosage, administration, and safe handling of medicines
• Recognise contraindications and advise clients when veterinary referral is required
• Promote responsible use of medicines to reduce risks such as antimicrobial resistance
• Maintain accurate records of prescriptions and supplies to support compliance and audits
• Reflect on the advisory role of SQPs in improving animal health outcomes and client education