Hey, I had a question about casting for scent. At this time we seem to have resolved our commit issues...however, we look like drunken drivers when casting for the start point. She frantically scurries all over after I scent her, and it's difficult to get her in a nice smooth loop. Looks more like a triangle, or zig-zaggy god knows what else! Any suggestions to help shape that better?

If you're talking about doing a blind cast then you have to formulate a search plan first (What area is to be searched regarding the current wind conditions). I would walk parallel to the search area with the wind off either the left or right shoulder. Thats going to be the easiest way to get a head snap or behaviour change when odor is detected.

As the handler, you can control alot of the wasted time and energy your dog burns. Start your search according to your plan and begin walking in one direction. Obviously, if the dog absolutely has odor then you have to go with him. If he's just lollypopping around, do not let him take you for a walk. If you suspect that he's screwing around, simply stop. He'll automatically run in a large "loop" or circle around you. If he has no clear scent to follow, then continue walking in the direction you started.

Once you've reached the end of your search area as dictated by the wind, move towards your target area a ways and go in the opposite direction. Right now I'm sure you know where the target is, right? This is a good time to focus on your pattern and carefully watching the dogs' body language (huge problem for some handlers).

Howard