4-H Animal Programs

Pennsylvania 4-H is Penn State Extension’s youth development program. Scientists, educators, and staff develop curricula and learning materials, and offer general support to 4-H animal projects that foster leadership, responsibility, friendship, compassion, responsibility, and other positive traits in youth.

4-H Animal Programs

Beef Cattle

Raising beef animals can help youth growth personally and learn skills that will help them become more responsible. The skills learned in raising livestock also carry over into other aspects of 4-H life.

Companion Animals

Youth interested in dogs, cats, rabbits, rats, mice, and other small companion animals can participate in 4-H Small Animal projects and learn about companion animal health, nutrition, and more. Youth can also participate in the Veterinary Science "Skills for Life" Series.

Dairy Cattle

Pennsylvania's 4-H Dairy teams have been very competitive in national dairy judging and quiz bowl competitions. A wide variety of activities are available for young people to build their skills and learn more about the dairy industry.

Goats

The Pennsylvania 4-H Goat Program is open to all youth - with or without farm backgrounds. Members learn about the Goat industry through events, shows and hands-on projects.

Horses

The Pennsylvania 4-H horse Program promotes knowledge of horsemanship and responsible, ethical equine use, care, and management. Youth who participate in 4-H horse programs develop skills that include leadership, responsibility, sportsmanship, teamwork, community service, a positive attitude, and a sense of self worth.

Poultry

Youth of all walks of life, both urban and rural, are involved in the 4-H poultry program. Projects include embryology, raising and rearing poultry, and poultry and egg consumer projects. These projects motivate youth to learn teamwork, develop interpersonal skills, build enthusiasm, and enjoy challenges.

Sheep

The 4-H Sheep Program helps youth to gain a better understanding of the basics of sheep production, nutritional needs of sheep, how to keep sheep healthy and how to correct health problems, and more.

Swine

The Pennsylvania 4-H Swine Program is open to all youth - with or without farm backgrounds. Members learn about the swine industry through events, shows and hands-on projects.