ICTQual Level 4 Award

Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal)

Awarding Body

ICTQual AB

Duration

5 Days

Course

Veterinary Qualifications

study mode

Online Learning

Course overview

The ICTQual Level 4 Award for Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal) is a specialised qualification designed for individuals who wish to supply and advise on companion animal medicines in accordance with regulatory standards. This course provides learners with the knowledge and professional competence required to act as a Suitably Qualified Person (SQP) for companion animals. It focuses on legal responsibilities, safe supply of veterinary medicinal products, and promoting responsible use of medicines to protect animal health and welfare.

Throughout the programme, learners develop a strong understanding of veterinary pharmacology, classification of medicines, storage and dispensing requirements, and relevant legislation governing animal medicines. The course covers parasite control, common diseases in companion animals, product selection, dosage calculations, and client communication. Emphasis is placed on ethical practice, accurate record-keeping, and advising animal owners on safe and effective treatment options. Practical and knowledge-based assessments ensure learners can confidently apply regulations and professional standards in real-world settings.

This award is ideal for individuals working in veterinary practices, pet retail, or agricultural merchant settings who are responsible for supplying companion animal medicines. Successful candidates are qualified to register as an SQP (subject to regulatory body requirements) and enhance their career prospects within animal health, medicines advisory, and veterinary support roles.

ICTQual AB

Approved Training centre of ICTQual AB

Centre # : ATC24001

Entry Requirments

Entry Requirements for the ICTQual Level 4 Award for Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal):

  • Educational Qualifications:A minimum of a Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in animal care, veterinary support, pharmacy, or a related field is along with good literacy and numeracy skills.
  • Professional Experience:Relevant experience in a veterinary practice agricultural or animal health environment is advantageous for those involved in supplying or advising on animal medicines.
  • English Language Proficiency:Since the program is delivered in English, learners must show competence in reading, writing, and communication.

Course structure

The ICTQual Level 4 Award for Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal) in Personal Protective Equipment qualification consists of 3 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Animal Health, Welfare, and Preventive Care
  2. Veterinary Medicines Regulation, Compliance, and SQP Responsibilities
  3. Prescribing, Supplying, and Advising on Companion Animal Medicines

What you will Gain

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

Want to know more?

While prior experience in animal care, veterinary practice, or medicines supply is beneficial, it is not always mandatory. Basic knowledge of animal health is recommended.

Graduates can register as an SQP (subject to regulatory body approval) and work in veterinary practices, pet retail, or animal health advisory roles.

The qualification is designed to meet professional standards required for SQP registration, subject to approval by the relevant regulatory authority.

SQP training ensures medicines are supplied responsibly, safely, and legally, promoting animal welfare and protecting public health.

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