Camp Bark and Roll a Success

PUTNAM COUNTY — 4-H has gone to the dogs. Kids from all across Putnam County (and their four-legged friends) recently attended the Putnam County 4-H program’s first ever dog camp, Camp Bark and Roll. The camp was designed for youth to learn all about their dogs and to prepare them for the 4-H Youth Pet Show at the Putnam County Fair. The 4-H’ers and their dogs participated in obedience, showmanship, and agility training sessions led by 4-H teen leaders Hannah Steger, Emily Armstrong, and Hannah Armstrong. The kids learned basic training skills, proper dog handling in a show ring, and how to lead their dogs through a professional agility course. The skills they learned were put to the test in a practice dog show on the last day of camp.

The kids also gained a better knowledge of their canine companions through Dog Skill-a-thon lessons taught by Melissa Henry, Putnam County 4-H Agent. The campers learned useful information about buying a new dog, responsible pet ownership, and canine health problems. These lessons not only prepared the campers to be better dog owners, but also gave them the knowledge they will need to participate in the 4-H Dog Skill-a-thon at the Putnam County Fair.

A highlight of the camp was a demonstration done by Christie Meyer Faccinto from Thunderhawk Canine and “Aero,” a search and rescue dog. The 4-H’ers were given the opportunity to be a part of the demonstration by hiding and being tracked down by Aero. This was a great way for the kids to see what a big part dogs have in the real world.

Camp Bark and Roll was a big success, and the Putnam County 4-H program plans to do it again in the future. Any youth ranging from K-12 grades can be a part of the 4-H Youth Pet Show. The show will be held on Saturday, August 6, with registration starting at 8am, in the Music Barn at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. More details about the show can be found in the Putnam County Fair book which is available at the UT Extension Office located at 900 S. Walnut Avenue.

4-H is the youth development component of the University of Tennessee Extension. 4-H is open to all youth in grades 4 – 12. For more information about 4-H or other Extension program please contact the local UT Extension office at 931-526-4561.