CATHERINE ESTES
Originally from the Flathead Valley, I graduated early from high school to join the Air Force, travel the world, and experience different cultures. I spent quite a few years overseas to include Italy, Germany, Spain, Korea, and Albania, and deployed to Southwest Asia on several occasions. After 23 years of service, I moved back to Montana, retired in Great Falls, and purchased my first home in the historical section of town. A year after my arrival, I enrolled at the Montana State University-Great Falls College of Technology and obtained an Associate of Applied Science in Office Administration and Technology. At present, I am a full-time student at the University of Great Falls working toward a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies.
I have always been intrigued with Borzois. Since it was not practical to have this breed when my family and I had to move every three years, I patiently waited until I returned to the United States from my last overseas tour and my kids were older. In 2004, I acquired my first Borzoi, Czar, and a year later, his half brother, Dutch. Having these two dogs has not only been rewarding, but a learning experience as well. I am constantly reminded to keep food off the kitchen counters when unattended, or it suddenly disappears as soon as my back is turned. I try to spend as much time as I can with them. We take walks around town, hike around the rivers, and travel across the mountains to visit my extended family. During my Kalispell visits, the staff at the Grand Hotel may not always recognize me, but they always remember my Borzois. When I first obtained the two, they were strictly companion dogs and not for exhibition. After working with my older Borzoi, I tried my hand in the conformation ring and eventually became passionate about competing. Participating at these events has proved to be a good bonding experience for us. By 2013, I hope to add a third Borzoi to our family.
I have always been intrigued with Borzois. Since it was not practical to have this breed when my family and I had to move every three years, I patiently waited until I returned to the United States from my last overseas tour and my kids were older. In 2004, I acquired my first Borzoi, Czar, and a year later, his half brother, Dutch. Having these two dogs has not only been rewarding, but a learning experience as well. I am constantly reminded to keep food off the kitchen counters when unattended, or it suddenly disappears as soon as my back is turned. I try to spend as much time as I can with them. We take walks around town, hike around the rivers, and travel across the mountains to visit my extended family. During my Kalispell visits, the staff at the Grand Hotel may not always recognize me, but they always remember my Borzois. When I first obtained the two, they were strictly companion dogs and not for exhibition. After working with my older Borzoi, I tried my hand in the conformation ring and eventually became passionate about competing. Participating at these events has proved to be a good bonding experience for us. By 2013, I hope to add a third Borzoi to our family.