Ok, so I’m going to admit that this article really isn’t about veterinary medicine. But I needed a captive audience to get on my soap box, so here I go. 

I would have to argue that 4-H and county fairs were the best thing about my childhood summers, hands down. Walking my lambs up and down the lane, washing pigs in the cool morning air and picking out the perfect cookie for the judge are vivid memories in my mind. This week I had the opportunity to take my kids to the county fair where they will make their own memories in just a few short years. Walking through the livestock barns, I could see the excitement in my 4 year olds eyes. She was asking me why the sheep had haircuts, and if the pigs noses were soft and why the baby calf was getting a bath. She was in heaven. The numbers of animals are dramatically less than when I was a kid, but the future looks bright. Several young children should be starting 4-H around the time my kids will begin. And I’m not sure who’s more excited.

If you have children who are interested in becoming a veterinarian, 4-H is great place to start. You don’t even have to show animals, you just have to get involved. There are so many opportunities available; check out www.4h.unl.edu for more information. Who knows, you may have a future vet on your hands.

If someone you know is interested in 4-H or is even interested in the Veterinary field, please e-mail me. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Click here for a list of local fairs going on in your community!