It's a new 4-H year! This is a great time to set new goals for yourself in the coming year. What do you want to accomplish this year? What skills do you want to develop? How will you provide new and fun challenges for your dog to strengthen your bond? The New Jersey 4-H Dog Project Record Book is a great resource to help 4-H members set goals for both themselves and their … [Read more...]
No Animals, No Problem! Engaging urban and suburban youth in Animal Science projects
Last month we shared information about curriculum and resources available to lead urban livestock projects in urban and suburban areas. One reader came back to us with a great question: "If we don’t have bees, rabbits or chickens, can our youth still get involved with animal projects?" The answer is yes! If your family or club cannot commit to raising your own animals, there … [Read more...]
Saying Goodbye
There is a special bond shared by youth and their dogs in the 4-H dog project. These members spend years building a positive relationship with their dogs based on mutual trust, clear communication, and positive reinforcement. To these 4-H members, their dogs are more than a pet. They are a teammate and friend with whom they share many experiences including the highs of … [Read more...]
Tips for a Positive Vacation Experience for Your Dog
So, you’ve just booked your big vacation. But who’s going to watch the dog? Our beloved pets are not always welcome to come along with us when we travel. While some owners choose to have a friend or family member care for their dog, others choose to check their pet into an overnight boarding facility. Boarding your pet can be a daunting experience, especially the first … [Read more...]
Ick! A New Tick in New Jersey
The weather is warm which means it's time to get outside with your dog! There is so much to do in the Garden State for dogs and their owners. Trips to dog-friendly beaches, hiking in state parks, and community festivals are just some of the many outdoor opportunities for you and your pup. While enjoying this season's outdoor activities, make sure you take proper precautions … [Read more...]
The State 4-H Dog Show at Rutgers Day – April 28
Rutgers Day is a university-wide open house event that offers fun, family activities across all campuses in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden. The 2018 Rutgers Day will be held on Saturday, April 28th from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Each campus offers a variety of hands-on activities and events for the public. One major event you don't want to miss is the State 4-H Dog Show located … [Read more...]
Celebrate Small Business – Canine Training and Boarding
Name: Kelly Griffin Job Title: Assistant Manager Organization: Bed and Bark-Dog Boarding and Training Education/Degree Earned: B.S. Animal Biotechnology and Conservation: Zoo Science at Delaware Valley University Are you a 4-H alumni? I am not a 4-H alum. What does a typical work day look like for you? A typical work week for me: I work … [Read more...]
Examining the Many Breeds of Dogs
Take a look around and you will quickly notice dogs come in a wide variety of physical and behavioral characteristics. The wolf may be their ancestor, but many dogs look very different from their wild origins. That is because humans have carefully crafted each breed to fit a specific need or interest. As a result, there are hundreds of breeds across the world. There are … [Read more...]
Does Your Training Technique Match Your Dog’s Learning Style?
Consider this situation: It's your first training session at your 4-H dog club meeting and you are excited to start teaching your dog basic obedience like "sit". Your club leader demonstrates how to place your dog into the "sit" position. Everyone else easily puts their dog into a "sit" by replicating your leader's instructions. You, on the other hand, have ended up in a … [Read more...]