Hi all,
One could argue that delivery from the heel position is truley to hand ad you hand is at your side not your front. From a shooting point of view a dog that delivers to the side still has a view of any incoming birds while a front delivery gets a nice view of your crotch
Some prefer an "obediance style" for some legitimate reasons that Peter mentioned Others believe a dog that leaps to the heel postion ready to deliver and retrieve the next bird at the same time is very impressive. Provided the delivery does not invovle refusal to deliver, pulling away snatching at the bird etc etc I think a polished delivery at side or in front is equally impressive and requires an equal amount of training. The rule change suggested allows the choice of position, front or side and I understand has also been put forward by NSW.
Everyone is entitled to an opinion. Providing it has been come to honestly it can never be wrong. I would like to think we are all capable and willing to change our opinion if a suitable case is put forward.
Glenice,
I believe the purpose of this website is to allow everyone to express an opinion. It is a fantastic opportunity for interested parties to communictae with people around the counrty and the world on subject we are all passionate about. I also see it as a chance to educate, learn, query, and discuss various topics for both handlers and judges alike. Unfortunatley one of the downsides is that the written word without facxial expressions can often by misinterprreted. Perhaps we should all bear this in mind when reading posts.
It would be a shame if someone of your experiance no longer has an input in this website. Already there are far to few experianced judges and triallers who are willing to put their "head on the chopping block" and pass comment on varying issues. Instead many of these people are happier to critisise posts privatley without offering their own input.
I hope you reconsider your position and look forward to your return to the website.
Regards,
Gareth