Pets Merit Badge

[RWSmith]

I'm not trying to be a pedant on this. I'm just making the point that this particular MB wants the scout to start the clock running when he decides to do the MB.

It's no problem at all... In fact, I think your there; but, what it actually means... is that the 4-month "clock" can start running only after the Scout gets approval from the MBC to begin Requirement No. 1, plus specifically... the "clock" then starts once the Scout begins caring for said pet --and thus, compiling evidence-- for Requirement No. 1.