By Laura Allen
N.C. Cooperative Extension

Rowan County 4-H provides numerous opportunities for youth to find their “spark” or passion by participating in 4-H clubs, competitive events, workshops, camps, projects and more.

One of the exciting opportunities coming up with Rowan County 4-H is the Playful Paws 4-H SPIN Club. 4-H SPIN (Special Interest) Clubs are short-term groups focused on a specific topic of interest. Unlike traditional 4-H clubs, which cover a broad range of activities and can last for many years, 4-H SPIN Clubs are designed to provide targeted learning experiences over a shorter period. These clubs often partner with local experts to deliver high-quality educational experiences.

The Playful Paws 4-H SPIN Club is focused on providing youth the opportunity to train their dog in obedience and some tricks. This club is led by Tracy Crotts, a certified dog trainer, who is also a 4-H volunteer.

This 4-H SPIN Club will meet once a week for 5 weeks, focusing on dog training. The classes will be held every Tuesday in October (1, 8, 15, 22, 29) from 6-7:15 p.m. in Salisbury. Youth ages 5-18 (as of Jan. 1) who register will bring their dog with them to each weekly session. Parents are required to stay during the classes to help assist the child with their dog, as needed. Registration is due by Sept. 25. There is a $10 registration fee to participate. To register, email laura_allen@ncsu.edu to express your child’s interest in participating. This club is limited to 12 youth and their dogs.

Requirements:

• Youth participants must bring their dog with them to each class.
• All dogs must have no aggression issues. Any dog that shows aggressive behavior will be asked to not return to the class. This is at the discretion of the club leader/dog trainer.
• No dogs in heat are allowed.
• The dog must be up-to-date on their rabies vaccination and a copy of the dog’s vaccination records must be turned in prior to the first session.
• A parent/guardian needs to be present at each class in case the child needs assistance.
• A 6-foot standard leash must be used with your dog (do not bring a flexi leash).
• You will need to provide dog waste collection bags to clean up after your dog.
• Youth participants must enroll as a 4-H member in 4-HOnline at v2.4honline.com in order to participate.

As you consider having your child and your dog participate in the Playful Paws 4-H SPIN Club, please also keep in mind the wonderful ways youth benefit by learning dog training skills:

• Responsibility and discipline: Training a dog requires consistency, patience and dedication, helping young people develop a sense of responsibility and discipline.
• Communication skills: Training a dog involves clear communication and understanding body language, enhancing a youth’s ability to convey and interpret messages effectively.
• Empathy and compassion: Working with animals fosters empathy and compassion as youth learn to care for another living being and understand their needs and behaviors.
• Confidence and self-esteem: Successfully training a dog can boost a young person’s confidence and self-esteem, providing a sense of accomplishment and pride.
• Problem-solving skills: Training often involves overcoming challenges and figuring out how to modify behavior, which helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Physical activity: Training, walking and playing with a dog encourage physical activity, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
• Social skills: Participating in dog training classes or clubs can help youth develop social skills as they interact with trainers, other dog owners, and peers.
• Stress relief and emotional support: Spending time with dogs can reduce stress and provide emotional support, helping youth manage their emotions and feel more balanced.
• Lifelong skills: Learning how to train a dog equips youth with skills they can use throughout their lives, whether they choose to pursue a career involving animals or simply enjoy the companionship of well-behaved pets.

These skills and experiences can positively impact a young person’s personal development, well-being and future opportunities. We look forward to having your child participate in this worthy 4-H opportunity.

4-H is the youth development component of Cooperative Extension. Any youths ages 5-18 (as of Jan. 1) are invited to enroll and participate in 4-H. Visit us at 2727-A Old Concord Road Salisbury, NC 28146 or rowan.ces.ncsu.edu. For questions or more information, contact 704-216-8970 or laura_allen@ncsu.edu.

Laura Allen is 4-H agent with the Rowan County Extension.