North Platte Post
Post News Director Canon Rath chatted with 4-H'ers Josh and Joelle Ewald and 4-H Development Extension Educator Caitlyn Jacobson about the 4-H Companion Animal Project.
NORTH PLATTE - 4-H is America's largest youth development program across the United States that helps learn skills that will last a lifetime. The age requirement for 4-H is the ages of 8-18. There are many different categories that 4-H'ers can participate in during their time in the program. One program that is offered is the 4-H Companion Animal Project.
Companion animals is a diverse group of animals that include dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, companion birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and so much more. The program helps youth opportunities to learn and develop life skills and learn knowledge and proper ways of taking care of companion animals.
When it comes to participating in the event, the 4-H'rs need to have their animal ready for a judgement. Animals need to be prepped for shows and it takes time to get them ready. "Depending on the animal, but dogs you have to groom them, give them a bath, get their carrier ready and they're ready to go," said Josh Ewald.
Joelle Ewald, who competed in the 4-H Companion Animal Project last year entered her cat into the show. "Last year, I entered my cat Pumpkin into the show, and I got to talk to the judge which was so much fun," said Joelle Ewald.
If you would like to learn more about Ewald's involvement with 4-H, or more about what the 4-H Companion Animal Project is, check out the podcast above. If you would like to visit the Lincoln, Logan, McPherson 4-H website, click here.