The Legendary Lassie Trainers: Carrying on a Family Legacy

Bob Weatherwax, a renowned Hollywood dog trainer, followed in his father's footsteps to breed and coach the collies who played the iconic Lassie, the heroic canine that captured the hearts of generations. Weatherwax's dedication to the Lassie legacy and his expertise in managing the brand's interdisciplinary roles made him a pivotal figure in the enduring success of this beloved character.

Preserving the Lassie Legacy: A Family Tradition

Inheriting the Mantle of Lassie's Trainer

Bob Weatherwax's journey as Lassie's primary trainer began in 1985, following the passing of his father, Rudd Weatherwax. Rudd had been the original trainer for the collie Pal, who starred alongside Elizabeth Taylor and Roddy McDowall in the hit 1943 film "Lassie Come Home" and later in the long-running "Lassie" television series. As his father's apprentice, Bob Weatherwax learned the multifaceted responsibilities required to manage the Lassie brand, from talent agent to pooch geneticist and acting coach.

Maintaining the Lassie Standard

Treating Lassie as a genuine Hollywood star was a top priority for the Weatherwax family. This standard was initially set by Louis B. Mayer, a co-founder of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the studio that released "Lassie Come Home." After the film's premiere, Mayer personally called his friend Howard Hughes, the owner of Trans World Airlines, to request that Lassie be allowed to fly with passengers rather than in the cargo section. This special treatment set the tone for the Lassie brand, and Bob Weatherwax embraced his role as a talent manager, ensuring that the canine star received the same level of care and attention as any human celebrity.

Navigating the Perks of Lassie's Stardom

As the custodian of the Lassie legacy, Bob Weatherwax not only upheld the high standards set by his predecessors but also embraced the perks that came with managing a beloved Hollywood icon. Traveling with a celebrity canine had its own unique challenges and rewards, and Weatherwax navigated this aspect of the job with the same dedication and professionalism that he brought to the training and care of the Lassie collies.

Preserving the Lassie Lineage

In addition to his training and management responsibilities, Bob Weatherwax also played a crucial role in preserving the Lassie lineage. As a skilled breeder, he ensured that the collies who portrayed the iconic character maintained the breed's distinctive physical and behavioral traits, allowing the Lassie character to remain true to its on-screen persona across generations.

Passing the Torch: Ensuring Lassie's Enduring Legacy

Bob Weatherwax's dedication to the Lassie legacy extended beyond his own lifetime. By training and mentoring the next generation of Lassie handlers, he ensured that the character's enduring appeal would continue to captivate audiences for years to come. Weatherwax's commitment to preserving the Lassie brand and its associated traditions solidified his place as a pivotal figure in the history of this beloved canine icon.