live ducks as dummies

[USMC03]

As I was reading this past months "Ducks Unlimited" magazine I came upon an ad advertising and praising the book "Water Dog" by Richard A. Wolters.  Today I went out and purchased it.  So far its very informative and a good read.  As I continued he mentions and shows pictures of him using live mallards as dummies to teach retrieval.  Some may think of this method as harsh or unethical but I believe it could be a very useful tool.  So my question is, Mr. Wolters doesn't say in the book where he got the ducks but I am wondering where and how I can go about obtaining one in the  teaching my future "Water Dog"?  Thank you for the help.
-Chris

[USMC03]

*my question also refers to pigeons as well

[The General]

I'm purchasing a 100 pheasant chicks at a $1 a piece.  I'd have to ask my neighbor for the information if anyone needs it.  But to answer your question on the ducks.  Go find yourself the local Runnings.  They sell duck chicks, but you'd have to raise them up.  I'm also sure a quick google search will help you get what you need.  I don't know if the guy I'm buying the pheasants from  sells ducks as well.

[USMC03]

Thanks

[blabman]

The Lake Country Retriever Club is holding a hunt test at the Mn. Horse and Hunt club this weekend. You should be able to obtain a dead duck or two after the test is over with on Sunday.

[USMC03]

I actually got one last night after a female mallard flew into the side of the building at work. I cut off her wings and brought them home for my puppy to check out.  When I gave him a wing to taste and smell it he freaked out and just stood there and wouldn't move or give up the wing. It was pretty funny to see him have his first taste of duck.

[kenhuntin]

Feed mills have them in the spring as chicks sometimes. I got mine from Houles in Forest Lake.