Today we’d like to introduce you to Robin Elliott.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Robin. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I saw some dogs herding sheep at the Del Mar Fai in a competition… I was there showing cattle, hogs and goats as a 4-H kid.
This hooked me instantly! Being grandchild of 2 cattle ranchers, who knew a well-bred and trained dog could be so much fun and actual help!
I was working as a vet tech/manager when I got my first Border Collie. I started competing on weekends and got pretty good at it… I won Top Dog of California every year several years in a row along with other prestigious competitions. Soon people were asking for my help and my business was born!
I quit my fulltime veterinary management job 20 years ago this year. I’ve never had a boss since.
I’ve gotten to travel the US and some abroad
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been a lot of work. I started this company from square one by myself. A few bucks, a couple of dogs and a truck.
For 20 years now, I’ve been self-employed and doing better every year.
I ranched 600+ head of sheep in New Mexico for several years. I lived on the road 3 months at a time going from trial to trial. I’d stop and trade labor for a place to park my rig and train dogs. Then back on the dog trial circuit.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about On the Lamb – what should we know?
I currently have 43 +acres near the beach to graze my sheep and train dogs. I breed sheep and Border Collies, compete in herding and teach herding…
I raise all-natural lamb to eat or have as pets. I use sheep for fire protection, weed abatement here at the ranch plus we travel to your properties to clear weeds.
I teach people how to train their dogs to herd sheep and how to compete…
There are competitions all over the world. I’ve competed all over, no one can touch my win rate. I’ve won more trials than anyone worldwide.
My teaching style is different than other teachers. My approach is to help you understand what the sheep is thinking and what the dog is thinking. The how, where and why the livestock and dogs are interacting.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My parents first and foremost. They started me on my livestock and competition lifestyle.
I had two mentors that had the biggest part in starting me on this herding journey. Suzee Cooley and George Grist.
My team now I couldn’t live without. Meagan Dunphy, Rachel Maness are shepherds and assistant trainers. Nancy Soyster is my best friend anyone could ever have. There is too much work to do on my own.
They are starting to compete now and winning everything! I’m so proud of them.
Contact Info:
- Website: Onthelambherding.com
- Phone: 8054216099
- Email: robin@onthelambherding.com
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