Remembering Robert Weatherwax: A legacy of Hollywood’s canine stars
A life dedicated to the silver screen
Robert Weatherwax, a renowned dog trainer for film and television, passed away on Thursday at a Veterans Affairs facility in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He was 83 years old. Weatherwax’s life was deeply intertwined with Hollywood’s most iconic canine stars, continuing a family tradition that began with his father, Rudd Weatherwax, the original owner of Lassie.
Early beginnings in Burbank
Born on June 4, 1941, in Burbank, California, Robert Weatherwax’s birth coincided almost exactly with the birth of Pal, the dog that would become the first Lassie. Growing up in a family of animal trainers, Robert and his sister JoAnne were immersed in the world of Hollywood’s furry stars from a young age. Their grandfather, W.S. Weatherwax, had already made a name for himself as an animal trainer during the silent film era.
The Weatherwax legacy
The Weatherwax family trained some of the most memorable dogs in cinematic history. Among their notable clients were Skippy, also known as Asta, who starred in classic comedies like The Thin Man and The Awful Truth; Terry, the dog who played Toto in The Wizard of Oz; and Spike, the beloved dog known as Old Yeller. These dogs became household names, thanks to the Weatherwax family’s expertise.
Apprenticeship and military service
After serving in the U.S. Army in West Germany, Robert Weatherwax returned to the United States and apprenticed under his father on the Lassie TV series. The CBS show ran from 1954 to 1974, featuring numerous Weatherwax-trained dogs in the titular role over its two-decade run. This period was a formative time for Robert, as he honed his skills and learned the intricacies of training dogs for the screen.
Founding Weatherwax Trained Dogs
Upon returning to Southern California, Robert Weatherwax worked alongside his father on various productions before establishing his own business, Weatherwax Trained Dogs. His career spanned several decades and included notable credits in films such as Back to the Future, Nickelodeon, The Thing, and Dennis the Menace. His expertise and dedication to his craft ensured that his dogs were always ready for their close-ups.
A literary contribution
In 2017, Robert Weatherwax published his book, Four Feet to Fame: A Hollywood Dog Trainer’s Journey, co-authored by Richard Lester. The book offers an insider’s perspective on the world of Hollywood dog training, sharing anecdotes and insights from Weatherwax’s illustrious career. It serves as a testament to his lifelong passion for working with animals and his contributions to the entertainment industry.
A lasting legacy
Robert Weatherwax’s last collie was a descendant of one of the original Lassie actors, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the Weatherwax family’s work. He is survived by his children, Robert Ruddell Weatherwax and Mary Duxbury, who carry on the family tradition of animal training.
Personal reflections
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, the Weatherwax family’s contributions to Hollywood’s golden age of animal actors are nothing short of legendary. Their work has left an indelible mark on the industry, creating unforgettable moments that continue to resonate with audiences today. The dedication and skill required to train these animals for the screen is a testament to the Weatherwax family’s passion and expertise.
As we reflect on Robert Weatherwax’s life and career, it’s clear that his legacy will live on through the countless films and TV shows that feature his expertly trained dogs. His story is a reminder of the magic that happens behind the scenes, where the bond between trainer and animal brings beloved characters to life.
For more information on some of the films mentioned, you can watch the trailers for Back to the Future, Nickelodeon, The Thing, and Dennis the Menace.
Robert Weatherwax’s contributions to the world of entertainment will be remembered for generations to come, as his work continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.