Creating a Drag Trail

The drag trail is a practical and authentic way to create scent trails for NASDA Trailing & Locating and Trailing Brace events. Here’s how to set it up properly:

Equipment Needed:

• Single ply Wash Cloth or Fabric Shop Towel:
  • This will serve as the scenting material.
  • Size no larger than 12″ x 12″ or 30cm x 30cm
  • Sacks / containers / pouches are not permitted
• Leash or Line:
  • Used to drag the cloth/towel.

Preparation and Setup:

1. Attach the Cloth to the Line:
   • Securely affix the wash cloth or shop towel to the leash or line before dipping it into the Rat Tea. This ensures the cloth remains securely attached during the trail-laying process.
2. Dip in Rat Tea:
   • Submerge the attached cloth/towel into the Rat Tea, ensuring it is thoroughly saturated.
   • Dip the cloth once per trail to maintain a natural scent level.

How to Drag the Trail:

• Natural Movement:
  • Drag the cloth behind you while walking naturally, replicating the movement of a quarry in the wild.
• Intermittent Contact:
  • Let the cloth touch the ground intermittently to mimic natural scent dispersion, avoiding a continuous drag that creates an overly obvious trail.

Best Practices:

• Avoid over-soaking the cloth, as excess liquid can create an unnaturally strong scent trail.
• Ensure the cloth is securely attached to prevent it from detaching mid-trail.
• Lay the trail in a realistic pattern, avoiding sharp turns or unnatural shapes.

By following these steps, the drag trail method provides an effective, authentic, and engaging way to train or challenge dogs in scent trailing.