What is 4-H PetPALS?
4-H volunteers teach youth the skills needed to interact with residents in healthcare facilities, like assisted living and nursing home facilities, enhancing intergenerational relationships. Youth learn about the physical challenges associated with aging, as well as medical conditions they may encounter while visiting. They learn to communicate with residents, and gain an understanding of their rich histories, while becoming more compassionate and caring.
Young people learn to train and prepare their pets so they can participate in animal-assisted activities as a team. Youth learn about animal behavior, animal handling techniques and proper pet care. They gain a greater appreciation for their pet and form a stronger human-animal bond.