Penn State Extension invites youth in Pennsylvania to participate in a free, virtual activity focused on veterinary care for companion animals.

The activity is part of Pennsylvania 4-H’s free trial period, during which time youth throughout the summer can experience a sampling of 4-H projects through a series of online activities designed to be fun and interactive.

The Vets and Pets session for children ages 5-7 - known as Cloverbuds in 4-H - will take place 10-11 a.m. Aug. 15.

An event for older children will occur 10-11 a.m. Aug. 17.

Participants will learn how to prepare pets for cooperative veterinary visits and become familiar with typical procedures and expectations at the vet’s office.

Activities will include preparing dogs and cats for veterinary exams by helping pets become comfortable with restraint; practicing veterinary tasks, such as teeth examination and ear inspection; mastering the towel wrap technique used by veterinarians to ensure a cat’s safety and comfort during care; learning how to measure a pet’s pulse and respiration rates; and training a dog to be a model patient during vet visits.

Participants will need a towel and a toy stuffed animal, such as a cat, dog or something with a similar shape.

Optional supplies include a stethoscope - either real or a toy - and a friendly, cooperative pet that is comfortable with activities, such as holding its paw, placing an arm around its neck and so on.

If attendees plan to participate with a pet, an adult must be present on camera while working with the animal.

Participants must register by Aug. 14 for the Cloverbuds session and by Aug. 16 for the general session.

More information is available at extension.psu.edu.

Organizers noted this opportunity allows youth and their families to try the 4-H program for free and determine if joining is the right decision for them. Participation in the trial does not automatically enroll youth in 4-H.

Administered in Pennsylvania by Penn State Extension, 4-H is a nonformal educational youth-development program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that helps young people develop knowledge and skills to become capable, caring and contributing citizens.

To find out more information about Lehigh County 4-H programs, visit the Pennsylvania 4-H website.