Small yard? Want a 4-H project involving animals? Try the 4-H Dog Project! In the dog project, participants learn about dog care and training. Beginners work on obedience and showmanship/conformation, while advanced handlers work on obedience, showmanship, agility and drill team or rally. Even though not all of the participants take their dogs to shows, everybody trains and practices like they are preparing to show.
So what if your dog is a mixed breed? That’s okay! The dog project group welcomes dogs of all breeds and ages, as long as they are fully vaccinated. This project offers you and your dog training and fun.
It is very exciting to have so much interest in the dog project, but with growth comes adjustment. Because of the large level of interest, we have made some changes which will provide a more positive experience for handlers and dogs.
Pre-registration into the dog project group is required by calling Amy Keliehor (phone number available at the Extension Office.) Shot requirements are DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Lepto, Parvo, Parainfluenza), Bordatella and Rabies. A non-returnable copy of the shot records and rabies certificate must be provided prior to participation for the safety of all dogs and participants involved. If you give your own shots, an affidavit, available at the 4-H office, must be signed and receipts with empty bottles and the rabies certificate must be submitted, prior to participation.
For a schedule of dog project practices for current members in Obedience, Rally, and Junior Showmanship, please check your 4-H Focus Newsletter or contact the 4-H Office. Each dog must have completed at least 6 weeks of obedience before starting agility. The goal of the dog project is to educate participants on all aspects of dog care and training, and have fun doing it.
For more information about the dog project group, please contact the 4H office at 936-539-7823.
