Cuatro Patas 4-H: A hands-on approach to animal welfare
Extension Education
Natalia Rivera - Alejandro
Extension Agent
UPR Mayaguez
Juncos
Abstract
Early exposure to proper pet care fosters responsible pet adoption, which is essential in reducing animal abuse and abandonment in Puerto Rico. Over half a million animals are estimated to be abandoned on the streets, contributing to a public health crisis due to the transmission of zoonotic diseases. The Cuatro Patas 4-H Project, part of the 4-H program, aims to educate children and youth about responsible pet care, promoting the health and well-being of both animals and humans.
The project's primary objective is to teach youth the responsibility of pet ownership, emphasizing that dogs and cats are sentient beings deserving of care and attention. A Project Guide was created with eight lessons and activities, that included general information on dogs and cats, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, reproduction, pests and diseases, veterinary care, general care and protective laws. Additionally, the project introduces participants to animal-related careers, entrepreneurship opportunities focused on companion animal needs, and volunteering. Since 2023, seven additional educational publications, including a video, have been created to further its outreach and educational goals.
The project has offered two summer camps and a conference, in both modes, virtual and in person. Coordinated two National 4-H Week Dropbox events that gathered and distributed supplies and approximately 1,100 pounds of pet food, impacting 13 organizations. The participants also had the opportunity to engage in the work done in an animal sanctuary, on a 4-H Volunteer Day. As part of the sustainability of the project, twenty-two Extension workers and 4-H leaders have been trained and have already replicated the project and participated in volunteer work at animal sanctuaries. The project has established collaborations with veterinarians and lawyers and has directly impacted 178 students from across Puerto Rico, including Texas.
In the future, we plan to continue integrating these and other extension strategies to further expand our outreach and enhance the impact of the Cuatro Patas 4-H Project.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Natalia Rivera - Alejandro
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Rivera - Alejandro, N. Extension Agent, University of Puerto Rico- Agricultural Extension Service, Puerto Rico, 00777