BODY CONDITION SCORING PROFICIENCY
BCS Training for Dogs, Cats and Equine
In Code 3 Associates ongoing attempt to provide ACOs and investigators relevant and practical training that can be applied on the job, we are announcing a pathway for officers to become proficient in Body Condition Scoring of various species.
In medical training, it is agreed that education should not just be classroom-based but competency-based. Competency means that one is knowledgeable about the subject, and should have the skills to do the associated tasks. Proficiency shows that one has the knowledge, skills, and ability to safely and consistently apply that knowledge. Thus to be considered proficient in Body Condition Scoring, one should show knowledge and demonstrate a level of skill while scoring.
We propose to provide classes on specific species BCS, with testing for knowledge and then have the officer provide video proof of application, showing skills, safety and general technique. These videos would be reviewed by knowledgeable professionals and upon completion of both parts of the project we would issue a Statement of Proficiency in the specific species.
These documents would be dated and have a renewal date every 3 years.
Proficiency Certification Training
Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is a valuable tool used to determine an animal’s fat reserves, energy balance, and overall health. BCS scales vary by species, typically from 1 (emaciated) to 9 (obese). Accurate scoring helps identify whether an animal is underweight, overweight, or at an optimal weight; monitor changes over time; assess feeding practices, workload, and overall husbandry; and recognize signs of illness or malnutrition.
This course is designed to establish proficiency in Body Condition Scoring for equines, dogs, and cats. While there is no formal certification for BCS, it is necessary that you receive the proper training by experts.
This course provides a three-year statement of proficiency certificate, which must be renewed every three years. Proficiency Certificates transfer if you change agencies.
Course Objectives:
- Develop proficiency in Body Condition Scoring for equines, dogs, and cats.
- Learn to accurately assess body condition using standardized scoring sheets.
- Demonstrate proficiency through video submissions.
- Understand the role of body condition in animal health, husbandry, and welfare.
Course Requirements:
- Must attend a Body Condition Scoring course provided by Code 3 which will demonstrate the proper way to Body Condition Score. BCS Proficiency will be offered twice per year virtually.
- Submit short videos demonstrating proper scoring techniques for each species.
- Pass or fail based on the accuracy of video submissions.
- Follow scoring sheets consistently.
- Instructors will review the videos and correct any errors with students.
- If you fail 3 video submissions, you will required to re-take the online training and start again. You will have to pay for the cost of the course.
Profeciency Certificate:
- Participants who demonstrate proficiency will receive a three-year proficiency certificate.
- This certificate serves as documentation of expertise and may be utilized in legal proceedings.
- This is not a certification in Body Condition Scoring but rather a recognition of proficiency.
- You can receive a proficiency certificate for dogs, cats, or horses individually or any combination of the three that you choose.
- Dog and Cat Certificate
- Equine Certificate
- Dog, Cat and Equine Certificate (Combo)
Video Submission Guidelines:
To achieve proficiency, participants must correctly demonstrate each step of the scoring process in their video submissions. Only videos showcasing correct techniques should be submitted for review. Each video should include:
- A clear view of the animal being scored.
- A step-by-step demonstration of assessing each body region. Explain what you are doing both verbally and by palpation.
- An explanation of the score given and the reasoning behind it.
- Proper handling and positioning of the animal for accurate scoring.
- Consistent use of the standardized scoring sheets as reference.
- Sufficient lighting and clear audio for accurate evaluation.
- Video’s should be continuous of entire process.
- Demonstrate safety.
- Clear Audio with minimal background noise.
- Lighting that appropriately lights the animals with limited shadows. Clean backdrop.
- Scores should reflect clear and accurate representation of species being scored.
- Dogs and cats should include muscle evaluation scoring.
- If you fail, instructors will inform you of areas of improvement. You can up to 3 video submissions for a correct video.
- Videos should not exceed 4 minutes for dogs and cats, 7 minutes for equines.
Use in Court for Animal Control and Law Enforcement:
Body Condition Scoring is a critical tool used in animal control and law enforcement to assess cases of neglect and abuse. By providing an objective, standardized method for evaluating an animal’s physical condition, BCS helps officers, veterinarians, and legal professionals determine whether an animal has been subjected to inadequate care.
- Legal Evidence: BCS provides quantifiable data that can be presented in court to support claims of neglect or mistreatment.
- Documentation: Officers can use BCS records to track an animal’s condition over time, demonstrating improvements or continued deterioration.
- Expert Testimony: Professionals proficient in BCS may be called upon to testify in legal proceedings, explaining their assessments and conclusions.
- Enforcement Actions: Law enforcement and animal control officers use BCS to justify interventions, citations, or the removal of animals from harmful situations in conjunction with other evidence. Keep in mind, BCS should not be the sole reason for a seizure of an animal.
Course Fee: $100-$150
- Dog and Cat Certificate $100
- Equine Certificate $100
- Dog, Cat and Equine Certificate (Combo) $150
Discounts may be available for agency registrations of 10 or more.
EAST Module A
Houston TX
Feb 2 - Feb 6
EXPERIENCE
“I have attended many Code 3 trainings, and I know I can trust my training when I am on the witness stand. Thank you Code 3 for providing current and relavent trainings!”
—Terry P.