Last night, I got the chance to do something different, to assist in helping two injured pigs. The pigs were injured on the journey to California, where they will be part of a 4H project. Once healed, two kids will care for them and learn a lot of important skills a the same time. These pigs are at Sonora High School in La Habra. I’m sure the staff at the hospital are glad I went there instead of having them come to us….they were angry and loud.
Unfortunately, I’m not sure how long the program will remain able to help these kids due to budget cutbacks. Unfortunately with the emphasis on state testing, other valuable programs along with art, science, and music get the budgetary axe. What the bean counters in Sacramento don’t understand is what 4H offers to the state. Kids in 4 H learn more than animal husbandry. They learn leadership skills, finance, community, and self confidence. Because these kids often come from less affluent communities, 4H offers programs that increase going to college and keeping them off the streets.
Most of my classmates that are large animal veterinarians got their start in 4H. Without this exposure, many may not have. California has a desperate shortage of large animal, food safety, and infectious disease specialist veterinarians and reducing early exposure to these areas will not help.
I for one will be discussing this matter with UC Davis outreach coordinators so we can see what can be done to help. I would love to go back and help again.