Youth enjoying their dogs at a 2011 summer training session.
Have you ever considered joining 4-H? The Chautauqua County 4-H Dog Program is a great opportunity for kids to train and work with their dogs. Our philosophy is not just the training of dogs, but rather the training of young people. In the process of working with your pet, you will be met with challenges, responsibilities, successes and failures which will help you grow and mature as a person. Working with a dog can be an extremely rewarding opportunity, as well as a lifelong skill.
The program is open to kids ages 8 (3rd grade) to 19 yrs. of age. Dog training is currently available at five training sites throughout the county. Experienced dog trainers teach obedience, grooming and handling, agility and rally-o. Training begins in the spring, with options to train throughout the year. There are as many as six dog shows held at 4-H Acres in Stockton. Youth and dogs demonstrate what they have learned in front of experienced judges to win ribbons and to earn a chance to go to the NYS State Fair. The deadline to join the 2012 Dog Program is March 31, 2012. Anyone interested in learning more about the Dog Program should contact the 4-H Office at 664-9502, ext. 214.
