Moved and looking for clubs, trainers in Florida - Page 2

And the "my brother's bigger than your brother" argument rears it's ugly head once again..  Yes Ivan has owned Shepherds over the years but they don't stay.  How many OT Vitosha Shepherds are out there?  Pointless argument, if the guy wants obedience help and he's in Florida, go to Ivan.

Ivan is a Malinois "guy" but he's trained GSDs and been the teacher for many handlers with "non malinois" - he's an excellent trainer, period.  Doesn't matter what breed you have.

molly

I will attest to Ivan Balabanov's talent and flexibility.  I belonged to Contra Costa Schutzhuund Club in the late 90's when he was the TD and had the privilege of traing with him.  He is a very decent, nice person and genuinely likes dogs, all kinds and types of dogs.  He was the behaviorist for the richly endowed ASPCA in San Francisco and prior to that, worked for Guide Dogs with the incredible Kelly Martin.  Kelly was also a club member. Ivan was a consultant to several K9 teams.  There were a couple of people doing ring sport.

If Plant City is not too far to go, you are very, very lucky.  For me it is 3,000+ miles.

Michele

Hello Mindhunt,
There are several good schH clubs in the Tampa Bay area with VERY good helpers / decoy's that you can work with. Below are the 3 clubs that I train with, in no perticular order.They all have good experienced helpers.

1) SPIRIT WORKING DOG CLUB
     Ivan Balabanov
     3206 Bruton Rd
     Plant City FL 33565
     (813) 707-1293
       By Appointment Only

2) WESLEY CHAPEL TOTAL DOG CLUB
     Helen Gleason
     4104 Hey Rd
     Wesley Chapel FL
     (727)424-4202
      Tues & Sat

3) TAMPA BAY WORKING DOG CLUB
      David Cobb
      Plant City, FL
      (813) 986-0416
      Tues, Fri & Sat

Regards,