The Animal Handling and Vaccination Certificate

The GARC Education Platform is proud to announce the launch of its first profession-specific course - the Animal Handling and Vaccination Certificate (AVC).

Due to the fundamental role that dogs play in spreading rabies, the regular vaccination of dogs against the disease is extremely important. Good animal handling and the proper administration of vaccine are essential techniques that need to be learnt by all professionals actively involved with dog handling and vaccinating, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the handler and animal alike.

The AVC course has been designed as an introduction to dog handling and vaccination that can precede an actual physical training program. It requires participants to have already completed the Rabies Educator Certificate to enable handlers and vaccinators to communicate with community members and dog owners effectively about rabies control. The course should be followed by physical training under the guided supervision of a professional.  Alternatively, trained professionals who wish to refresh their knowledge and remain up-to-date regarding new techniques and tools on dog handling and vaccination will benefit from the AVC. 

The new course can be accessed by going to the online GARC Education Platform (https://education.rabiesalliance.org), and entering the enrolment key that is obtained upon completing the Rabies Educator Certificate (REC). Participants that have already completed the REC course, and wish to enroll for the AVC, can contact [email protected]. 

You can learn more about the AVC course and the other courses on the GARC Education Platform here

We hope that you will enjoy the new course and that you will be able to benefit from the knowledge provided on the GARC Education Platform.

Contributed by Andre Coetzer, GARC