What is the Tellington TTouch® Method?

Tellington TTouch®

is a method of working with animals that has proven effective in reducing stress, fear, aggression and anxiety; as well as modify behavior, increase flexibility and—when combined with veterinarian care—aid in recovery. The approach is gentle yet systematic and helps animals to better cope with different and novel situations. It improves confidence, focus and learning.

With the use of gentle touches, body wraps and groundwork (a variety of exercises with equipment) we engage and calm the animal's nervous system as well as teach the animal to move in non-habitual ways. Since an animal that is stressed or anxious cannot learn, the incorporation of TTouch® allows me to aid an animal (in my case dogs, cats, birds and rabbits) by teaching them how to relax. The animal can then focus on learning new ways of coping with situations in which he previously reacted with fear, concern or anxiety.

Another terrific benefit of TTouch® is that it provides the guardian with the tools to engage with their animal in ways that are non-threatening—establishing or deepened the trust between them. As part of a TTouch® session you will learn how to use wraps and perform bodywork.

This service could be incorporated into a training session with your dog or as a TTouch® only session.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Engaging the Nervous System to Make a Difference

Here is an idea for a doggie challenge: Have your dog walk on different (yet safe!) and novel surfaces.
Dogs receive much information via their pads.  When they are exposed to a novel stimulus it is new information for their brain.

The goal is to have your dog experience something novel in order to expand their capacity for flexibility in dealing with everyday stressors.  When an animal is equipped with more confidence and experiences to encounter life's daily challenges they thrive!

  • Please keep in mind that your dog  MUST engage with this new experience in a positive (non scary) way.  Do NOT push your dog to walk over a new surface if there is any hesitation on the dog's part (observe the dog's body language). He should have a loose relaxed body, open mouth and with his body weight leaning towards the surface -- and not away from it.
  • If there is any hesitation, take note of this and try again on another day. 
  • Reward (we are talking hungry dog & tasty treat here) your dog for ANY exploration of the new surface.
  • Do NOT lure your dog to walk on the surface. Instead reward his voluntary exploration.
  • Focus on the experience for the two of you and not on the goal!
  • As your dog's confidence level grows, he will feel ready to push forward
  • Continue to build trust in your dog by making sure  he  feels safe.
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