By Katherine Waters

Sun Staff Intern

NORWICH – Twelve young 4-H participants took pride in showing their pets Tuesday as the 4-H Pet Show got underway in the Follett Show Ring at the Chenango County Fair.

Several young members competed to win in four categories: beginner pet care, advanced pet care, costume class and performance class. The animals and their caretakers were judged by SPCA Executive Director Carol Hedlund.

“I think this is a good experience for kids,” said Hedlund after the competition. “They learn a lot about their animals.”

For many of the competitors, this was one of several shows they will participate in this week. Andrea Cruz has participated in 4-H for 10 years. This year she brought her cat Nueva to the competition. Cruz participated in the costume competition by dressing Nueva as an elf.