Animal Science
Animals raised may encompass a variety of uses, including those raised for food or fiber products (livestock), or those raised to perform or for companionship.
Extension was born out of a commitment to make science useful and available to our local communities. As an Extension program, 4-H strives to include Science, Technology, Engineering and Math into all projects and program areas.
Animal projects offered in Washington 4-H are designed to engage the learner for success and life-skill development. Animal projects are one of the foundational subject matter areas of Washington 4-H. By raising animals, youth gain responsibility and develop critical thinking through animal science-based subject matter, appealing to USDA’s and WSU’s push for STEM education. Many believe that the “County Fair” is the target for many youth, but the “Journey to the Fair” is the real education. Washington 4-H projects can serve as a career path for young people who have dedicated time and effort to their self-driven education when they age out of 4-H.
Types of Animal Projects
Companion, Performance, Food & Fiber projects offered in Washington 4-H are designed to engage the learner for success, resulting in the development of life skills.
The animal science projects are one of the foundational subject matter areas to Washington 4-H. Raising animal projects, youth gain responsibility and develop critical thinking through science-based subject matter, exposing them to STEM education.
“Companion”, “Performance”, as well as “Food and Fiber” are categories that define the general “use” of animals.
Companion Animals
Companion animal projects are any animal that serves in the capacity of companionship and emotional stability, including but not limited to dogs and cats as the most common fit.
Performance Animals
Performance animal projects are working animals that are intended for active performance; one of the more popular in Washington 4-H, is the horse project.
Food & Fiber Animals
Food and fiber animal projects are livestock (large and small) raised to enter the food chain and/or produce fiber for clothing or household goods. Some species could fit into numerous categories, but we have listed below the use category they are most aligned with.
Animal Science & Judging
- Beekeeping
- Cardboard Animals
- Dairy Judging
- Dog Judging
- Horse Judging
- Livestock Judging
- Skill-a-thon
- Veterinary Science
- Self-Determined Animal Science
Biosecurity and Quality Assurance
Working with animals is extremely rewarding! It also comes with a lot of responsibilities. Safely caring for our animals is a top priority for 4-Hers participating in animal projects. One way we can care for our animals is to follow safe biosecurity standards.
Biosecurity means doing everything you can to prevent diseases from entering or leaving your home, farm, or facility.
YQCA – Youth for the Quality Care of Animals
Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) is a national multi-species quality assurance program for youth ages 8 to 21 with a focus on three core pillars: Food Safety, Animal Well-Being and Character Development. For more information about this program go to YQCA
