I really have some concerns about the new barrel obstacles. Placing fuzzy toy-type whiskers, cones that we use to train other things, stuff on the grass/floor--now the barrel has become four obstacles instead of one in addition to a required path. In addition, the dogs will be facing three different obstacles at different trials depending on what each club uses and/or the running surface. For those of us who train alone and without facilities, purchasing all these different items, determining what is going to be used at the few trials we get to attend is going to be a bit more of a challenge. I actually trained barrels using the hoops back when, then faded out the hoops and now will try to re-train for various distraction obstacles (even the bonus line tapes that are often left on course). I really wish you had left the wide path on a barrel as simply a time consuming issue as it is with all other obstacles. Sorry to vent, just getting frustrated trying to keep up with the venue I love.
