Pets Merit Badge
Responsible pet ownership across multiple animal types.
Good fit if you like
Official Requirements
We keep this page focused on tips and what to expect, not a copy of the requirement text — requirements get revised periodically, and scouts are generally held to whichever version was current when they started the badge (the same reason Scoutbook lets you filter by pamphlet version). For the exact, current wording, check your Scoutbook record for this badge or the official page below.
Pets on scouting.org ↗Finding a Counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for the council's merit badge counselor list. For popular badges, a parent in your troop may already be registered as a counselor. If your troop doesn't have one, your council's advancement chair can help connect you.
Tip: for this badge, look for counselors who work professionally in the field — a local vet, engineer, or IT professional makes an ideal counselor and often brings real-world context the pamphlet alone can't provide.
Similar Badges You Might Like
First Aid
EagleCore first aid skills — wound care, CPR awareness, and emergency response basics every scout should know.
Health & SafetyCitizenship in Society
EagleDiversity, equity, and inclusion — added as an Eagle-required badge in 2021.
Citizenship & SocietyPersonal Fitness
EagleA 12-week personal fitness plan covering strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.
Sports & FitnessEmergency Preparedness
EagleDisaster readiness — family emergency plans, first aid, and response to common emergencies.
Health & SafetyLifesaving
EagleWater rescue techniques and lifeguarding fundamentals — a swimming-intensive alternative to Emergency Preparedness.
Health & SafetyEnvironmental Science
EagleEcology, pollution, and conservation through hands-on field study and experiments.
STEM