I think that the use of these items in SRS and GOG make sense. I'm not thrilled that it is done, but it is probably better than the outfall of using gamefarm raised real birds.
Our existing hunt tests and trials that award hunting retriever titles should continue to use what they've always been required to use - as long as points are awarded towards titles.
One formerly well-rounded organization is in a pickle right now over an attempt made to "test the waters" in pursuing a new market, while covertly and conveniently rationalizing that it was for other reasons. I think those folks learned that it was a bad move. It's really too bad that it was not done honestly and in an upfront manner.
I think it would be great for some new organizations to go ahead and promote a rubber duck doggie game for the "suburban trainer" who does not hunt and does not want his dog (or himself) handling yucky duckies. Maybe there is a market for it. But let's not muddy our existing programs by trying to substitute rubber ducks for what's always been required in the past.
One of the neat things about the SRS and GOG participants is that there's a qualification process to get into an event. Currently the contestants will already have credentials earned while running "real bird" events.
I'm personally amazed at the amount if dialogue and energy being wasted by folks in one organization who are still talking about rubber ducks. Friends of mine have actually gotten onto a rubber duck committee. This, to me is crazy! It should be a 5 minute discussion - they should revert back to the original rulebook and be done with it! The fact that they are now getting into a bunch of "what ifs" about the duck truck wrecking, animal rights wackos releasing all the birds, etc. blows my mind!
If you don't have confidence in your bird steward or supplier, implement a a backup/contingency plan and have frozen birds readily available. American FT's and HT's have been run for decades without having to worry about the woes of "what if"..... I'm amazed that what these folks don't see is that by even having the discussion, they are empowering those who tried to deceivingly and covertly derail the organization.
- Chris