I can't say I have ever honored an animal by saying "thank you" right after I put a bullet in it. I do feel that if you're not excited after shooting something you should get a different hobby that does make you excited when you're successful. Ever given a handshake and give a sincere "congrats" to someone who just killed a deer? It's not a fist bump, but the meaning is the same. It just may not be everyone's way.
Call me a shïtty, unethical hunter. I don't care. Doing everything exactly the way the OP seems to desire won't change the anti's mind. Maybe some middle ground folks, but not the ones that really matter. I don't know if I'll put a picture up on the 'net of me riding a dead elk like it's a bull or anything, but I sure as hell won't bow to the anti's by not getting excited after shooting something I have put a lot of effort into shooting.
Rant over.
