Companion Animals

The Companion Animal Project helps 4-H’ers learn about selecting and caring for companion animals, understanding their daily needs, and recognizing the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. Participants also develop skills in record-keeping, citizenship, sportsmanship, and teamwork.

This project includes animals such as cats, dogs, rabbits, and other pets typically kept for companionship. Farm animals are not included.



Project Toolkit


  • Gather items such as food, toys, and brushes for an animal shelter.
  • Help find homes for animals at a shelter.
  • Conduct an educational “show and tell” about your pet for younger children.
  • Volunteer to care for someone else’s pet.
  • Take your pet to a nursing home to visit with the patients. (Contact the nursing home first!)
  • Build a wire cage or nesting box for someone who wants to start the rabbit project.