Online Class: How to Care for House Pets

Transform your home with the unique charm of exotic pets, from playful guinea pigs to inquisitive parrots, through a course that equips you with the essential knowledge for responsible pet care. As you discover how these animals contribute to mental and physical well-being, you'll develop a meaningful connection through structured care and companionship.

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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 9
    Lessons
  • 18
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 1,025
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 2
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.2
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Imagine stepping into your home and being greeted not just by a playful puppy or a purring cat, but by the vibrant chirp of a bird, the gentle twitch of a rabbit’s nose, or the curious gaze of a guinea pig. For those looking to expand their family beyond the typical cats and dogs, there’s an exciting world of exotic pets waiting to be explored. From hamsters to snakes, these unique companions offer endless joy, a fresh sense of adventure, and a rewarding experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

But caring for an exotic pet requires more than just love. It demands understanding, knowledge, and a commitment to their well-being. That’s where Universal Class’s course, "How to Care for House Pets", becomes your invaluable guide. This course is designed to help you navigate the world of exotic pet care, ensuring that both you and your new companion enjoy a fulfilling life together. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of a rabbit, the inquisitiveness of a bird, or the fascinating presence of a snake, this course will help you provide the best care possible for your unique pet.

The Joy and Benefits of Owning an Exotic Pet

Exotic pets bring a distinctive energy into a home. Each species has its own set of behaviors, traits, and needs, making the bond between pet and owner one-of-a-kind. A well-cared-for exotic pet can become a source of endless fascination and companionship. For example, rabbits are known for their playful nature and can even be litter-trained, while birds, like parrots, can become great conversationalists. Guinea pigs form strong emotional connections with their owners, chirping with excitement when they hear their voice or footsteps.

But owning an exotic pet isn’t just about companionship. Studies show that pets, in general, contribute to better mental and physical health. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found that pet ownership helps reduce stress, lowers blood pressure, and decreases the risk of heart disease. Exotic pets, in particular, can provide a soothing presence, especially in households where a more traditional pet might not be the best fit. Their daily care routines and playful antics can add structure and joy to your life, promoting relaxation and offering a sense of purpose.

Choosing the Right Exotic Pet for You

Selecting the right exotic pet for your home is a journey of self-discovery. Each animal has unique characteristics that make it suited to different types of households and personalities. The course guides you through this decision-making process, offering insights into how to match a pet’s needs with your lifestyle. Do you prefer a pet that’s independent, or one that thrives on interaction? Are you looking for a pet that requires minimal space, or do you have room for a larger enclosure?

For families with children, it’s crucial to choose an age-appropriate pet. Hamsters and gerbils, for example, are small and relatively easy to care for, making them great starter pets for younger kids. Birds and guinea pigs, on the other hand, require more attention and interaction but can become wonderful companions as children grow. The course covers how to evaluate the space, time, and level of care different pets need, ensuring you make an informed decision that leads to a happy, long-term relationship with your pet.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.51 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(1,131 votes)

Lesson 1. A Harmonious Connection: Choosing the Right Animal Companion

Pet ownership offers companionship and significant health advantages like reduced depression and healthier cholesterol levels. Selecting a pet suited to your lifestyle and living environment fosters a joyous, enduring bond. 11 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: Why this Course?
  • Assessment: Lesson 1: Choosing the Right Pet
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Companions in Childhood: Selecting the Best Pet

The lesson highlights the importance of pets in developing children's skills and emotional resilience, influencing both social skills and physical health. By aligning pet characteristics with a child's age and maturity, families can ensure mutual growth and well-being between a pet and its young caretaker. 18 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 2: Age-Appropriate Pets
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Navigating the World of Pet Ownership

Finding a suitable pet involves understanding the responsibilities of pet ownership, from financial to emotional. Investigate various options like shelters, online services, and breeders, to choose a healthy and well-adjusted pet for your home. 28 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 3: How to Obtain a Suitable Pet
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Understanding Pet Ownership: Responsibility Beyond Food and Water

Owning a pet goes beyond just feeding and requires significant time, space, financial resources, and commitment to ensure their well-being. Assessing your living situation, budget, and long-term plans are crucial to provide a happy life for your pet. 12 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 4: Ability to Care for a Pet
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Pet Care Essentials

Maintaining a clean, hygienic environment is essential for pet health and can include litter training for some animals. Regular cleaning of cages and enclosures prevents bacterial spread and enhances the comfort and well-being of the pet. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 5: General Care
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Pet Care Essentials

Maintaining a clean, hygienic environment is essential for pet health and can include litter training for some animals. Regular cleaning of cages and enclosures prevents bacterial spread and enhances the comfort and well-being of the pet. 0 Total Points

Lesson 6. Keeping Pets Clean: The Key to Their Health

Curiosity in pets may lead to exposure to invisible dangers, highlighting the importance of keeping harmful substances secure. Safeguarding their environment helps protect pets from poisoning or injury caused by everyday household items. 24 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 6: At Home Care
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. The Vital Role of Observant Pet Ownership

Preventive care can significantly extend pets' lives and improve their quality by addressing health issues early through vigilant observation. For smaller pets, spaying, neutering, and maintaining clean environments prevent common ailments and ensure well-being. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Medical Care
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Establishing Alpha: A Guide to Pet Trust and Communication

Pet Facilitated Therapy (PFT) programs utilize the comforting presence of temperament-tested animals to provide therapeutic benefits and companionship, demonstrating the healing power of pets. These programs bring comfort to individuals in hospitals, nursing homes, and various community settings, enhancing well-being and emotional health. 47 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Final Course Poll - Your Opinion; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Creating a Bond
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam
200
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe choosing the right pet.
  • Summarize age-appropriate pets.
  • Recognize how to obtain a suitable pet.
  • Define the abilities needed to properly care for a pet.
  • Describe general care of your pets.
  • Summarize medical care needs of your pets.
  • Describe creating a bond with your pet.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: How to Care for House Pets
Course Number: 8900127
Lessons Rating: 4.51 / 5 Stars (1,131 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: June 2024
CEU Value: 0.2 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Cathleen Chouinard
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I like how informative this class was and I will take everything I learned as I search for my new pet." -- Eleni M.
  • "I am so pleased to take this course, thank you for sharing all the information. I so much appreciate everything that I've learned." -- Faith S.
  • "Overall good experience. I learned some useful things and It was short, easy to get through, and straight to the point. I learned everything I needed in as little time as possible." -- Maren S.
  • "I am glad that I took this class, I didn't feel confused about anything." -- River P.
  • "I really liked the instructor, seemed very kind." -- Jacqueline S.
  • "Enjoyed the course, lerned a lot of information." -- Natasha G.