Bob credits several people for impacting his life in dogs. The first is Bill Worley, a master trainer, who trained Bob and his first German Shepherd Dog. Bob describes his mentor, Alma Rosser, as a brilliant woman who knew the Obedience Regulations Section and verse and demanded the same from him after encouraging him to judge. Later, Bob's former obedience student, Jack Godsil, became his partner in conducting training seminars throughout the United States. Bob describes Jack as charismatic as well as a tremendous dog trainer which made him an ideal partner in presenting training techniques.
Bob established Front & Finish in 1971 with partner, Dr. A.J. Harler, in a 16 page newspaper format, to promote the sport of dog obedience. This was in addition to his "regular" job as a high school physics teacher and his own involvement in training, competing and judging obedience trials. The magazine got bigger, ratings and award systems were added and Bob managed to write several training books as well. He has also served on numerous advisory committees with the hope that the recommended changes would have a lasting, positive effect on the sport.
When asked what advice he would give to young people in this field Bob responded, "I try not to give advice, only encouragement. I try to show interest, answer questions and aid in solving problems."
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