Department G, Division 100 - Companion Animal
Superintendent: TBA
Divisions Purple Blue Red White
All $5.00 $4.00 $3.00 $2.00
Rabbits shown in the pet rabbit class cannot be shown in the rabbit show.
Exhibitors are encouraged to make a poster explaining their animal which can be displayed during the fair. The poster may only be used one year.
Poster should be the size of one full standard poster (should not exceed 22 inches x 28 inches) board.
Any animal showing signs of sickness, disease, or parasite infestation will be eliminated from the show and must be removed from the fairgrounds.
All animals must be weaned prior to show.
SHOW PROCEDURE - Exhibitors must be present at time of showing. Animals must be housed in a cage at all times of the show unless asked to remove them by the judge. If being shown in a travel cage, exhibitors should bring photographs of the animal’s normal habitat.
Exhibitors will be asked to give a short showmanship-type presentation on their animal. The characteristics, health, and care of the animal should be provided in this presentation. Following the presentation, exhibitors will be interviewed on their knowledge of their animal and its care.
The judge will evaluate the participant on the following basis: animal health
& well-being - 35 points; cage evaluation (appropriateness of travel housing as well as description of everyday housing) - 25 points; and overall knowledge
and presentation skills - 40 points.
See 4-H Companion Animal Judging Sheet for more complete breakdown
of points available.
VACCINATION - Ferrets must be vaccinated for rabies and have a completed health form signed by the administering veterinarian submitted with registration information.
Also refer to General 4‑H and FFA Rules.
There is no Showmanship class in Companion Animal as the presentation of the animal and showmanship is the same.
Minimum Age at Show
G100002 - Pet Rabbit 9 Weeks
G100003 - Ferret 4 Months
G100004 - Chinchilla 7 Weeks
G100005 - Guinea Pig 4 Weeks
G100006 - Gerbil 4 Weeks
G100007 - Hamster 4 Weeks
G100008 - Mouse 4 Weeks
G100009 - Rat 4 Weeks
G100010 - Hedgehog 5 Weeks
G100011 - Other Small Household Pet (approved by Extension Staff)
G100012 – Other Companion Animal Poster – Posters can include entries covering any companion animal (including reptiles, companion birds, or others). Exhibitors should make a poster with information on the proper care of a companion animal that they are NOT showing in another class of the Companion Animal Show. Exhibitors must be present at time of judging and will be judged on quality of the poster, accuracy of information provided, and ability of the exhibitor to explain the information and answer judge’s questions. Posters must be new each year.