The Cascade Coursing Club holds lure practices throughout the winter. The main purpose is to train dogs to course safely, correctly, and with proper focus.

At our practices, dog will primarily run straights.  The length of the run depends on the age and experience of the dog with the longest run being approximately 200 yards. Unless there is a reason to run more than one dog together, they usually run solo. Normally a dog gets to run twice during a practice, although a puppy, or new dog, may make two sets of short back-to-back runs. Often, a neophyte will make the first few runs on lead (but no flexi-leads).  If a dog is young or inexperienced, they are brought along gradually, making sure that they learn each incremental step before moving them on. How rapidly a dog progresses depends on the dog, as well as how often and purposefully they practice.  Several short runs are much more valuable to training than one long run.

One thing the Club feels strongly about is waiting to put dogs into competition until they are mentally or physically ready. If a dog has already been put in a situation it was not properly prepared for, or has developed unfortunate habits (such as being more interested in other dogs than the lure), retraining can take a while. With patience, persistence, and proper practice techniques, many dogs which have "goofed-up" have successfully been restored to competition.

Even for dogs which are sound, experienced coursers, practicing on straight runs is great for maintaining focus and keeping them keen on the lure.  Folks interested in attending one of CCC's practices are encouraged to first e-mail the club President, Carol Chittum. Carol, who has years of valuable experience in the sport of lure coursing, has some things which are beneficial to review with new attendees, before coming for the first time.