'brilliant'

'extremely enjoyable'

'an amazing insight'

The Natural Animal Centre runs Foundation-approved animal courses for people who want to use Dr Bach's system of flower remedies to help animals. The courses, which are open to lay and professional people, take place at the Centre's home in Wales. They are taught by Heather Simpson, a professional animal behaviourist and Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner.

The introductory two-day course includes an introduction to the behaviour of cats, horses and dogs, and an overview of how the remedies can help animals. Groups are kept small, allowing you time to ask questions and benefit from the experience of learning at the Natural Animal Centre, and a chance to observe animal behaviour first-hand.

On the first day of the stage 2 course you will look in-depth at the psychology and behaviour of dogs, paying special attention to the different behaviour characteristics of different breeds. Day two concentrates on cats, and includes an introduction to how animals learn. Day three shows how you can apply you knowledge of animal behaviour to help you identify behaviour patterns in all animals. Case studies will help you select remedies for other species including horses, reptiles and other companion animals. All three days will give you the opportunity to study examples of animal behaviour.

The first day of the stage 3 course gives you an opportunity to revise what you have learned so far by looking at live case studies. The course allows you to try out your observation skills by looking at live examples of animal (and animal owner) behaviour, concentrating on dogs, cats and horses. Guidelines for treating animals will be explored, including ensuring personal and public safety, how to work with vets and the requirements of the Dr Edward Bach Foundation's Code of Practice and practice guidelines.

Day four is exam day, with a multiple choice assessment followed by a written exam. Once you have passed the exams you will be asked to complete further written work from home, and then go on to undertake and write up a case study of your own, including the selection of remedies for an animal.

The Stage 3 course is recognised by the Dr Edward Bach Foundation as a level 3 practitioner training course. Students passing all the assessments will be given the opportunity to apply to register with the Dr Edward Bach Foundation as a practitioner specialising in animal care. Registration is discretionary and subject to your agreeing to work under the Foundation's Code of Practice.

To find out the latest course schedule and to book a place on a course, contact the Natural Animal Centre.

Places on the courses are limited and are allocated on a first-come first-served basis. You do not need to book a place on all three stages at once.