I agree with TFX as well. When your partner is willing to die for you and your money the very least you can do is not give the other guy any kind of advantage. I do believe every dog has the right to quit and that is why it is a scratching contest. I think in all fairness to the dogs the handles should be made cleanly and at the appropriate time so if one is ready to hang it up he does not have to endure if he does not want to be there, but....the other guy has to do the same for his own dog. I can't look out for both of them. EWO