Youth enjoying their dogs at a 2011 4-H summer training session. (Submitted photo)

JAMESTOWN, NY – Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County’s 4-H Dog Program is accepting new members.

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 (third grade) to 19 years 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.

For more information please contact the 4-H Office at Cornell Cooperative Extension 716-664-9502 Ext. 214

Cornell Cooperative Extension... we put research-based knowledge to work for Chautauqua County residents involved in agriculture, the environment, youth development and human services. Cornell Cooperative Extension is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 and all donations are a charitable contribution.