Youth from 5 to 19 years of age who love their dogs, want to learn how to train their dogs, and want to be involved in a program that teaches life long skills such as leadership, respect for animals, and teamwork are invited to enroll in the Tioga County 4-H Dog Program.

 The dog obedience classes for this year's Dog Program begin Monday, April 14, and continue every Monday night, except May 26, through June 9. Youth who are interested in participating in the Tioga County 4-H Dog Program are required to enroll in 4-H before April 1, 2003. The enrollment fee is $7.50
 Classes will be held at the 4-H Youth Building on the Tioga County Fairgrounds. Beginner classes will be from 6:00 to 6:45 pm and advanced classes will be 7:00 to 7:45 pm.

 A mandatory orientation meeting will be held on Monday, March 17, at 7:30 pm, at the Tioga County Office Building. New and returning 4-H members must attend this meeting. The 4-H staff and the dog obedience coaches will discuss the classes, schedules, health requirements, the dog show, and will help members complete the required paperwork.

 All members will be required to bring the following to the meeting: a copy of the dog's rabies certificate, a 2003 health certificate signed by their veterinarian, and a completed 4-H dog project certificate (available at the 4-H office). It is highly recommended that dogs are vaccinated for Parvovirus, Hepatitis, Distemper, and Leptospirosis.

 Youth who enroll in the 4-H Dog Program and complete the eight-week course will be eligible to show their dog at the Tioga County 4-H Dog Show and participate in county and state dog clinics.
 4-H is a unique, informal educational program that supplements training received in home, school, church, and other youth-serving agencies. Open to all youth 5 to 19 years of age, 4-H uses a real-life work experience where the individual sets his/her own goals for achievement.

 To learn more about 4-H in Tioga County or how you can be involved in the program, call Cornell Cooperative Extension, Tioga County at 687-4020.