Last month I taught a 2-hour Tellington TTouch seminar hosted by the Kamloops Cactus K9 Club. We had over 30 registrants comprising of pet guardians, groomers, dog sport handlers, veterinary technicians, trainers, walkers, breeders, and shelter and kennel staff.
My objectives for this short seminar were to provide an overview of TTouch methods and opportunities for hands-on experience with a selection of touches and equipment. Participants left with a handout and resource list to help them apply what they learned with their own dogs and clients.
This was a people-only event with the exception of an outstanding helper dog named Spirit.
We touched on the key components of TTouch:
- Bodywork – a variety of light touches and strokes to engage the sensory aspect of the nervous system
- Integration of selective tools – from equipment for walking to implements to enable non-threatening interaction
- Leading and groundwork – a variety of surfaces and obstacles to assist with coordination, focus, and self-control, resulting in a more confident dog.
- Observation skills – posture, coat and tension patterns, movement, habits, connection, breathing, vocalization…
- Philosophy – envision positive outcomes for our pets, abandon labels and assumptions, and focus on seeking information to find the cause of behaviour. “Change your mind, change your animal.”
I shared three cases to illustrate a variety of applications of TTouch.
1. British Team – World Championships
This story is familiar to many involved in TTouch and always an eye-opener for those who compete in agility. This winning team uses a variety of TTouch-techniques to help with warm up, cool down, focus, balance, precision, and calming routines. It’s a stark contrast to the ramp up routines we often see prior to an agility run.
2. Maxwell
Maxwell’s case involved a simple change to a morning routine with my own dog that solved the problem of high arousal and annoying behaviours. Applying a quarter wrap 20 minutes before heading out on walks was a game changer!
Issue: High arousal before walks
Presents as:
- Obnoxious behaviour towards Maggie – pushing toys into her, humping
- Racing around, slamming, skipping stairs
Solution: 20 minute quarter wrap
3. Case: Dog Training Classes
Trainers will relate to the problem of dogs pulling their way into group classes. During the first class of any series teach the simple balance leash.
Issue: Excitement when entering training facility
Presents as:
- Dogs pulling on leash
- People rushing to get to classroom
- Dogs coughing, wheezing from collar pressure, sometimes ill-fitted equipment
- Frustrated and embarrassed owners
Solution: Balance leash
This seminar sparked a lot of interest and I’ve enjoyed the many follow-on discussions. I look forward to more opportunities for group classes in the future!
These are the resources I recommend to support the integration of TTouch into your practice. And of course I would be happy to work with you personally!
Books
- All Wrapped Up For Pets: Improved Function, Performance & Behavior with Tellington TTouch Body Wraps by Robyn Hood Mandy Pretty
- Dog Grooming Without Fear or Force: Incorporating Tellington TTouch and Other Positives Techniques – May 12 2019 by Glynis Stewart, Dawn Harkin
- Getting in TTouch with Your Dog: A Gentle Approach to Influencing Behavior, Health, and Performance Paperback – Feb 11 2012 by Linda Tellington-Jones
- Harnessing Your Dog’s Perfection: Helping your dog be the best dog they can be on leash and in life with the Tellington TTouch Method Paperback – Sep 30 2019 by Robyn Hood Mandy Pretty
- Your End of the Lead: Changing how you think and act to help your reactive dog Paperback – Jun 3 2019 by Janet Finlay
Websites