Companion Animal Projects

Your pet, your best friend

Kids in 4-H who work with animals understand them so much better when they learn about what to feed them, how to safely train them and how to enhance the animal’s environment. That's why it's called animal science! The 4-H Animal Science program focus is providing the best education to our members on raising, managing, and possibly marketing their companion animals. Caring for an animal is a big deal, members participating in a companion animal 4-H project will learn to be responsible and keep good records. Practicing best management while raising an animal gives members the opportunity to engage in science-based, hands-on education. There's nothing like working with a companion animal to help young people feel connected and boost confidence.

Learn about:

• Animal Care and Ownership
• Honesty and Sportsmanship
• Animal Health and Biosecurity
• Quality Assurance
• Human Health
• Ethics and Conduct
• Career Exploration

Participant outcomes:

• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Communication
• Problem solving and critical thinking
• Sportsmanship

Youth interested in companion animals can explore careers like:

• Veterinary Science
• Pet Food Industry
• Animal Trainer
• Groomer
• Breeder
• Animal Control Officer

Projects:

• Bird
• Cats
• Pets
  
  • Pocket pets:
    
    • Chinchillas
    • Mice
    • Rats
  • Reptiles

* Not all projects may be offered in every county, contact your County Educator for more information.

Cloverbud Animal Science Opportunities

Youth between 5 and 7 can participate in our 4-H Cloverbud program! This non-competitive program introduces young children to the world of animal science while focusing on safety.

Explore more programs and events

• Quality Animal Management
• Skillathon