After graduating from University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine's VetFAST program, George Lemke reflects on how his 13-year 4-H experience in Meeker County, particularly his work with sheep, led him to where he stands today.
Finding his passion in Lamb Lead
Starting with chickens and eventually expanding to various livestock, it was sheep that ultimately captured his heart.
By ninth grade, he was showing sheep at the Minnesota State Fair, an achievement he would repeat throughout his high school years.
Lemke developed a particular fondness for Lamb Lead competitions, a unique event that combines animal showmanship with promoting the wool industry.
Contestants demonstrate sheep handling skills while promoting wool products by wearing wool clothing and answering judges' questions about wool production.
Lemke's skills improved so dramatically that he eventually won the state competition twice, a fitting achievement for someone who once told a judge he found wool "itchy" as a newbie.
What makes sheep unique
For Lemke, sheep offered something special that other livestock projects couldn't match.
"The appealing part of sheep is that you can build a different type of bond," he explains.
Unlike showing cattle with halters or guiding pigs around the ring, sheep showing involves direct contact and a deeper connection.
"There's more of a teamwork element with sheep in the show ring."
Building networks
Beyond the hands-on animal experience, Lemke credits 4-H with building his professional network, connections that helped him secure internships, join the University of Minnesota's Livestock Judging Team and ultimately find his calling in veterinary medicine.
These relationships continue to shape his career path as he prepares to join a veterinary practice in Pipestone, an area known for its sheep industry and home to several "legendary sheep vets" whom Lemke admires.
Coming full circle
His 4-H experiences have come full circle in veterinary school, where he served as a regulatory veterinarian at the state fair.
"What I've learned is that you shouldn't just do a health check and move on," he says of interactions with young exhibitors.
"Start a conversation with the kid. Ask about their animal. Make them feel like you've been in their shoes."
Advice for future veterinarians
As Lemke reflects on his experience in veterinary school, he offers advice to young people interested in veterinary medicine: "Start shadowing in high school. Find your local vet."
He emphasizes the importance of early animal handling experience, skills he first developed through 4-H.
From Cloverbuds to veterinary school, Lemke's path illustrates what many 4-H alumni know: sometimes the projects that capture your heart end up shaping your future.
Lemke debunks wool misconceptions
George Lemke knows more than most people about wool. Here are the main misconceptions he encounters:
Wool is itchy
“High quality wool can be incredibly soft. Historically, some wool garments were itchy when made from shorter, coarser fibers. Today we select longer, finer fibers to make a soft, high quality product.”
Wool is hard to take care of
“While some garments still require dry cleaning, many garments are now machine washable, and can even be put in the dryer. Check the tag of your next wool product to see the best way to care for your wool.”
Wool is hot
“Actually, wool has the same wicking properties as some of your high-end athletic wear. Consider buying a wool or wool blend gym outfit when you need to spruce up your gym gear.”
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