HERDING, TRACKING, LURE COURSING, CAT/FAST CAT, & PET THERAPY
USEFUL INFORMATION
Herding email address: herding@lccoc.org
Tracking email address: tracking@lccoc.org
Lure Coursing email address: lurecoursing@lccoc.org
Pet Therapy email address: pettherapy@lccoc.org
AKC Herding Page
AKC Tracking Page
AKC Lure Coursing Page
AKC Pet Therapy Page
AKC CAT Page & Fast CAT Page
HERDING
LCCOC does not hold a trial nor are formal classes given. The AKC currently offers five herding titles. Please see the AKC herding link above for further information.
For more information on herding, please send an email to herding@lccoc.org
TRACKING
There are four AKC tracking titles and more information can be found on the AKC website using the appropriate link above under "Useful Information."
For more information on tracking, please send an email to tracking@lccoc.org
LURE COURSING
As with herding and tracking, members coordinate times to train their dogs. Although LCCOC does not host a trial, there are nearby clubs who host these AKC events where titles can be earned. This event is primarily for sighthounds, such as Greyhounds.
Please send an email to lurecoursing@lccoc.org for more information on lure coursing.
CATS & FAST CATs
The Coursing Ability Test (CAT) and Fast CAT are two of the most recent events in which any dog registered with AKC, whether pure-bred or not, can participate. These are very similar to the lure coursing for sighthounds but open to all dogs. See the links at the top of the page for more information on both of these dog sports.PET THERAPY
The LCCOC Pet Therapy Program has been in place for more than 18 years with highly-qualified trainers. Persons in elder and hospital care facilities respond very favorably to pet therapy, enhancing their quality of life and inspiring dog owners to share their pet's love with others. Currently, LCCOC volunteers visit several different locations each month. Most visits are scheduled for Saturdays but occasionally visits are made during the week or upon request.
Please read our handout on pet therapy under "Useful Information" above or send an email to pettherapy@lccoc.org.
FAQ's
Herding
Where can I take herding lessons?
There are several locations within an hour of Baton Rouge where you can take herding. Please contact the herding contact person for a complete list.
What is the first herding title that I can try for?
Herding Instinct
What is the difference between a Herding Trial and a Herding Test?
Herding Tests include the Instinct Test (HI), the Herding Test (HT) and the Pre-Trial Test (PT). All of these levels are prior to the test level and require that you are tested under two different judges. The Herding Trial levels are Started, Intermediate, and Advanced. Trial levels require that your dog receive a passing score from three different judges. Herding Tests may be given on various types of stock such as ducks, sheep, or cattle.
Does my dog have to have an AKC Registration to herd?
No, not to herd, but your dog must be registered with the AKC to compete in an AKC Herding Trial or Test
Does my dog have to herd sheep?
No, dogs may herd many different types of stock including sheep, cattle, ducks, goats, turkeys, geese, etc.
In Herding competition, what is a leg?
A leg is one qualifying score under an official judge at an official AKC Herding Trial.
How many legs does my dog need for a Herding Title?
It depends on which title you are trying to obtain. For Test level, it is two legs. For Trial levels, it is three legs.
Can any dog compete in an AKC Herding Test or Trial?
No, only dogs that are on the official AKC list of eligible breeds may compete.
Does my dog have to take lessons to take the Herding Instinct Test?
No, your dog does not need to have prior experience with herding to be tested for instinct.
How do I get an official AKC Herding Instinct Certificate?
Your dog needs to show sustained interest in stock under the supervision of two different AKC Herding judges at an official AKC Herding Test.
Can I enter the Herding Instinct Test the day of the test?
Yes, if the Test/Trial is not full you may enter the day of the test.
Do I have to show my dog at AKC herding events?
No, there are other organizations that hold herding trails. For example, the American Herding Breed Association (AHBA) and the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA)
Tracking
Does LCCOC hold a tracking trial?
No
Are all dogs eligible to enter the LCCOC Tracking Trial?
The tracking trial is an AKC event so dogs must be registered with the AKC to enter.
Does LCCOC offer tracking classes?
We do not offer tracking classes at this time.
Can any dog track?
Yes. Some breeds are more suited to tracking or have more specific tracking instincts, but any dog can track.
Pet Therapy
What is a TDI?
Therapy Dog International certification
Do I have to have a CGC title to do Pet Therapy with LCCOC?
No, but it is highly recommended. Having passed the CGC agives you and other pet therapy dog owners the confidence that your dog can behave in difficult situations.
When is the CGC Test given?
Usually around October
How often do LCCOC teams do Pet Therapy?
We currently visit nine locations a month mostly on Saturdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Qualifications: Open to all dogs with proof of vaccinations who have completed beginner training. Dogs and owners coming from other programs will be assessed by the instructor.
