Dog Care Merit Badge

Dog Care
Merit badge requirements
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  1. Tell some of the characteristics of 10 breeds of dogs, OR give a short history of one.

  2. Point out on a dog (or on a sketch) at least 10 parts. Give the correct name of each.

  3. Present a report signed by a parent or guardian describing the care you have given your dog for 2 months. Include these items: feeding schedule, food used, housing, exercising, grooming, and bathing. Tell what has been done to keep the dog alert and healthy.

  4. Present a written report showing about how much it costs to keep your dog for 2 months.

  5. Explain the right way to obedience train. Show with your dog any three of these commends: "Come," "Sit," "Down," "Heel," "Stay," "Take it," Drop it," "Get it."

  6. Do at least TWO of the following:

    1. Describe what should be done to remove fleas, ticks, and lice from your dog.
    2. Describe the symptoms of the following: distemper, rabies, mange, ringworm. Explain what you would do if your dog showed these.
    3. Describe the proper treatment for sore ear, sore eye, fits, removing something swallowed by a dog, removing something stuck in its throat.
    4. Explain first aid for a dog bite. List the things as needed in every dog owner's first aid kit.

  7. Explain precautions to take in handling a hurt dog. Show how to put on an emergency safety muzzle. Explain how to treat wounds. Show how to put on a simple dressing and bandage to the foot, body, or head. Explain what to do if a dog is hit by a car.

  8. Tell the dangers of home treatment of a serious ailment. Report on a visit to a veterinary hospital, or report on a visit to an animal shelter.

  9. Know the laws and ordinances involving dogs in force in your town.

Merit badge requirements courtesy of Troop 586 Farmington