 "Gone
to the Dogs" is a privately owned and operated business. It
began in 1982, by Steve Estrada from an avocation to a beloved and fulfilling
vocation. I started by working in the weight-pull with my own Saint Bernard's
and started training other breeds. I also showed my own dogs successfully
in the conformation ring.
Fortunately, I was guided to Jean-Claude
Balu's school in Fontana, California. Jean-Claude is a task master
with years of experience working with service dogs and being a Schutzhund
Trial Judge with the D.V.G.
(Deutscher Verband der Gebrauchshundsportvereine) as well as a fierce
competitor. He taught about training through the use of canine psychology;
not method training, which can only serve a few. I was also introduced
to Imprinting in
puppies and how to redirect aggression. But most importantly, how to read
and understand behavior.
I also worked for both private and commercial kennels, allowing me to
experience many breeds including working with numerous rare breeds. I've
experienced breeding, whelping and training a number of different breeds;
working with all types of behavior.
One thing that has always stuck with me is the best way to learn about
dogs is to handle and experience everyone you are able. This important
bit of knowledge was imparted by my teacher, Jean-Claude Balu. So I pass
that on for those that might be interested.
I've been a member of U.S.A.
(United Schutzhund Clubs of America); and the U.S.R.C.
(United States Rottweiler Club). Also a previous office holder in both
National and Regional dog clubs. I've been a Schutzhund Trial decoy and
past Training Director for Heart Therapy Dogs International. I have been
a guest speaker for many dog clubs, schools and television. I have been
working full time at this profession twenty plus years and now reside
in a bit of paradise in historical San Juan Capistrano. A small town with
its own special wonderful character. It was settled in 1776 as the seventh
Mission of California and has the oldest continuously lived in neighborhood
in California. This is where the Swallows return to each year. I am very
involved in this wonderful small town community. I work with "Charities
Best", a local group that supports local charities. I am also past
Docent at the Mission
San Juan Capistrano and worked as a volunteer in the history and archives.
I've also worked with A.R.F.
(Animal Rescue Foundation of Dana Point) and F.O.S.C.A.
(Friends of San Clemente Animal Shelter) C.A.R.E.
(Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort) as a consultant. I am also a member
of the A.Q.H.A. (American
Quarter Horse Association) spending several days a week riding trail and
training my Quarter Horse, "A Scotch Will Do It" , Scotty this
being another part of life that I enjoy very much. I now have a new project
in my new horse "Mos Obvious" a two year old I'm starting and
training myself from the start. Something I haven't done that I have desired.
My training covers South Orange County from Newport Beach to Coto de
Caza to Oceanside. I am also available for telephonic or e-mail consultations.
In conclusion I would say, "Enjoy what you do and do it well."
Have fun training! I look forward to hearing from you.
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