4-H Youth Animal Development

As the old saying goes, many people think 4-H equates to "sows, cows, and plows".  While the traditional market livestock projects are always a firm part of what makes up our 4-H program, 4-H projects are by no means limited to only those animals that one might find on a farm.

4-H Market Livestock

Mason County 4-H boasts a growing Market livestock program.  Youth are able to partake in projects ranging from poultry to sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, and more.  In order for youth to participate, they are expected to adhere to rules and regulations that are specific to that project.  The Mason County 4-H Youth Animal Development Council is the main body in charge of administering each of these projects.  The council consists of four officers (president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary) as well as representatives from at least two separate clubs.  All are welcome and encouraged to attend meetings.  They take place at the West Shore Community College Rec Center, room 422, at 7:00 pm.  Meetings are traditionally held on the fourth Monday of each month.

4-H Dog Agility and Obedience

One of Mason County 4-H's fastest growing programs is the Dog Agility and Obedience program.  One of the principle concerns families have when it comes to taking part in animal projects is housing the animal.  But with your family's little furry friend, that problem doesn't become an issue.  Much like with market livestock projects, participants in the Dog Agility and Obedience program learn about the varying degree of dogs as well as their strengths and weaknesses.  Participants then spend weeks training with their dogs to compete in show-style events at the County Fair.  Interested groups should contact the Mason County MSUE office at 231-845-3365.

 

4-H Pocket Pets

4-H Pocket Pets is a program in Mason County 4-H that centers around much smaller, easier to house animals.  These can consist of lizards, pet frogs, guinea pigs, hamsters, and more.  While these "pocket pets" may not seem like much, there is still a lot of work and responsibility that goes into caring for them.  Those looking for more information about the Pocket Pets program should contact the Mason County MSU Extension office at 231-845-3365.

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