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Toni Shelbourne

Toni has worked with domesticated and wild canids since 1989. After a long and successful career with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, she started her own business as a Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Practitioner in 2000 after being one of the first people to qualify in the UK.

In 2001 her skills in TTouch took Toni to the UK Wolf Conservation Trust where she met a pack of socialised wolves. She went on to work with them for over a decade as a Senior Wolf Handler and Education Officer for the organisation.  Through observing the wolves, she has a unique insight into their behaviour.  This led to her questioning the ingrained ideas about the alpha theory with dogs, ideas that were often in conflict with her own knowledge and observations.
    
In recent years she has updated her skills and qualifications obtained through her career with Guide Dogs to include being a Real Dog Yoga Instructor and Animal Behaviourist, as well as being a Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Instructor. She loves to look at the emotional side of dogs and specialises in fear-based issues and stress management.

She is the author and co-author of seven books (The Truth about Wolves and Dogs; Dispelling the Myths of Dog Training (Hubble and Hattie), Among the Wolves: Memoirs of a Wolf Handler (Hubble and Hattie), HELP! MY Dog has a Canine Compulsive Disorder (Skinny Dog Books) and HELP! My Dog is Scared of the Vet (Skinny Dog Books), HELP! My Dog is Scared of Fireworks, HELP! My Dog doesn’t Travel Well in the Car and HELP! MY Dog is Destroying the Garden. Many more are planned.   

She has also had articles published in Dogs Today and Edition Dog magazines, as well as numerous blogs, and rescue newsletters. She writes regularly about TTouch in Your Dog Magazine and Your Cat magazine in the UK.

Toni lives in South Oxfordshire, England. She works with clients locally and teaches nationwide and internationally. Toni is also the referring behaviourist for the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary where her skills in TTouch are invaluable for helping the traumatised animals that find themselves in the sanctuary’s care. As well as teaching TTouch both in-person and online, she gives webinars and talks, she is also a Senior Instructor for the Dog Training College and tutors for The International School of Psychology & Behaviour.

Toni works under her maiden name of Shelbourne, but you may also know her as Toni Sherman, which is her married name.

Web address: www.tonishelbourne.co.uk

Website: (HELP! My Dog…book series) www.skinnydogbooks.jimdo.com

Facebook: Toni Shelbourne Animal Behaviourist and Author

Learn more(pdf)

Upcoming Trainings/Workshops with Toni Shelbourne

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch®

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On September 10th & 17th (16.00 – 18.00 GMT) join Toni Shelbourne , Tellington TTouch Instructor, author and Animal Behaviourist, takes you through the steps to begin understanding and interacting with your cat in a more positive, mindful, and proactive way.

Learn how to notice subtle changes and communication signals that you cat is trying to convey to you and understand how you can adjust and adapt your approach to each individual animal.  This course includes 4 hours of live, interactive, virtual learning AS WELL AS, online course material, available to you 24/7 with lifetime access.

Taking what you observe, discover the versatile and adaptive TTouch body work techniques that allow you to make positive contact with your cat, in a way they enjoy and look forward to; deepening your bond and helping your feline friend become more comfortable and relaxed.

In addition to simple yet effective TTouch techniques, discover fun, interactive exercises that will engage your cat and help transform apprehension or indifference into curiousity and engagement.

Use your new skills in practical applications, learning how to help your cat become more comfortable in typically challenging everyday handling scenarios such as, Vet visits, nail trimming, and more!

This course can count (4 credits) as an Elective towards the Tellington TTouch Practitioner Program.

visit this website for more info

in on 2023-09-10 thru 2023-09-17

Interactive & Online: Anxious Dogs – Understanding and Managing Anxiety

Beginning on February 11th, join Tellington TTouch Instructor, Animal Behaviourist and Author, Toni Shelbourne as she helps you unlock the keys to understanding and supporting your anxious dog.

We all want a calm, confident canine companion.  Consistent training, an enriched , low-stress lifestyle, adequate exercise and a good diet all contribute to helping our dogs feel their best; but what do you do when you come across a dog who still struggles with anxiety?  As with people, anxiety is a complex issue that cannot necessarily be helped with a “one sized fits all approach” or simply additional training or exercise. This course is designed to help TTouch Practitioners and practitioners in training, rescue workers, dog owners and canine professionals gain a comprehensive understanding of anxiety in dogs.

You will acquire practical techniques in the Tellington TTouch Training method to support and manage anxious dogs. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical strategies to empower participants in providing a nurturing and anxiety-free environment for their own canine companions, dogs in their care or clients dogs.  

During the two, 2 hour live-stream sessions, Toni will guide you through the steps of understanding and then addressing your dog’s anxiety in a gentle, supportive and integrative way.  These sessions are recorded for future viewing and you have lifetime access to all content.

This course include hours of informative, helpful lectures as well as easy to follow videos demonstrating specific techniques. 

Course Outline:

What is anxiety.

Canine Communication.

Safe dog handling.

Working with the over-aroused anxious dog.

Working with the catatonic or shy dog.

What can we add to enhance our work.

What you will learn!

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of dog anxiety and its various forms.
  • Learn practical strategies to reduce anxiety and create a calm environment.
  • Develop skills in confidence building and calmness in dogs.
  • Discover additional support options and interventions for severe cases.
  • Promote the overall well-being and happiness of yours or your client’s dog.

Note: While this course provides valuable insights and techniques, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or professional dog behaviourist for personalized guidance in managing your dog’s anxiety.

Course Instructor:

Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Instructor Toni Shelbourne brings a wealth of experience with many different species and modalities.  Toni is also an Accredited Animal Behaviourist based in the UK and has the following qualifications.

  • Diploma in Canine Behaviour (ISCP Dip.Canine.Prac.)
  • Tellington TTouch Instructor
  • Real Dog Yoga Instructor
  • Full Member of INTODogs
  • Full Member of the International Companion Animal Network (ICAN)
  • Senior Instructor for Dog Training College
  • Author
  • Over three decades of experience working with animals
in Live Interactive & Online on 2024-02-11 thru 2024-02-18

Interactive & Online Getting in TTouch® with Your Cat

course info

 

On April 14th and 28th (16.00 – 18.00 GMT/ 11:00 – 13:00 EST) join Toni Shelbourne, Tellington TTouch Instructor, author and Animal Behaviourist, takes you through the steps to begin understanding and interacting with your cat in a more positive, mindful, and proactive way.

Learn how to notice subtle changes and communication signals that you cat is trying to convey to you and understand how you can adjust and adapt your approach to each individual animal.  This course includes 4 hours of live, interactive, virtual learning AS WELL AS, online course material, available to you 24/7 with lifetime access.

Taking what you observe, discover the versatile and adaptive TTouch body work techniques that allow you to make positive contact with your cat, in a way they enjoy and look forward to; deepening your bond and helping your feline friend become more comfortable and relaxed.

In addition to simple yet effective TTouch techniques, discover fun, interactive exercises that will engage your cat and help transform apprehension or indifference into curiousity and engagement.

Use your new skills in practical applications, learning how to help your cat become more comfortable in typically challenging everyday handling scenarios such as, Vet visits, nail trimming, and more!

This course can count (4 Academy credits) towards the Tellington TTouch Practitioner Program.

The Live Interactive portion of the course includes:

  • 4 hours of live learning sessions in a small, friendly group setting.
  • Access to an exclusive Facebook Group for ongoing questions and feedback
  • Recorded sessions for future viewing
  • Individualized advice and coaching about your specific cat.
  • Private Whatsapp group.

The online portion of the course includes:

  • 3 Lessons: Each consisting of several specific topics.
  • Over an hour of “how-to” videos and lectures about each specific concept and exercise
  • Downloadable 40 page Course Manual
  • 24/7 access to all materials

Check out the time zone converter for the course time in your area.

(shelter and rescue workers are entitled to a discount)

in Live Interactive & Online on 2024-04-14 thru 2024-04-21

Interactive & Online: Anxious Dogs – Understanding and Managing Anxiety

Beginning on October 6th, join Tellington TTouch Instructor, Animal Behaviourist and Author, Toni Shelbourne as she helps you unlock the keys to understanding and supporting your anxious dog.

We all want a calm, confident canine companion.  Consistent training, an enriched , low-stress lifestyle, adequate exercise and a good diet all contribute to helping our dogs feel their best; but what do you do when you come across a dog who still struggles with anxiety?  As with people, anxiety is a complex issue that cannot necessarily be helped with a “one sized fits all approach” or simply additional training or exercise. This course is designed to help TTouch Practitioners and practitioners in training, rescue workers, dog owners and canine professionals gain a comprehensive understanding of anxiety in dogs.

You will acquire practical techniques in the Tellington TTouch Training method to support and manage anxious dogs. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical strategies to empower participants in providing a nurturing and anxiety-free environment for their own canine companions, dogs in their care or clients dogs.  

During the two, 2 hour live-stream sessions, Toni will guide you through the steps of understanding and then addressing your dog’s anxiety in a gentle, supportive and integrative way.  These sessions are recorded for future viewing and you have lifetime access to all content.

This course include hours of informative, helpful lectures as well as easy to follow videos demonstrating specific techniques. 

Course Outline:

What is anxiety.

Canine Communication.

Safe dog handling.

Working with the over-aroused anxious dog.

Working with the catatonic or shy dog.

What can we add to enhance our work.

What you will learn!

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of dog anxiety and its various forms.
  • Learn practical strategies to reduce anxiety and create a calm environment.
  • Develop skills in confidence building and calmness in dogs.
  • Discover additional support options and interventions for severe cases.
  • Promote the overall well-being and happiness of yours or your client’s dog.

Note: While this course provides valuable insights and techniques, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or professional dog behaviourist for personalized guidance in managing your dog’s anxiety.

Course Instructor:

Tellington TTouch Companion Animal Instructor Toni Shelbourne brings a wealth of experience with many different species and modalities.  Toni is also an Accredited Animal Behaviourist based in the UK and has the following qualifications.

  • Diploma in Canine Behaviour (ISCP Dip.Canine.Prac.)
  • Tellington TTouch Instructor
  • Real Dog Yoga Instructor
  • Full Member of INTODogs
  • Full Member of the International Companion Animal Network (ICAN)
  • Senior Instructor for Dog Training College
  • Author
  • Over three decades of experience working with animals
in Live Interactive & Online on 2024-10-06 thru 2024-10-27

Interactive & Online Getting in TTouch® with Your Cat

course info

On November 10th and 24th (16.00 – 18.00 GMT/ 11:00 – 13:00 EST) join Toni Shelbourne, Tellington TTouch Instructor, author and Animal Behaviourist, takes you through the steps to begin understanding and interacting with your cat in a more positive, mindful, and proactive way.

Learn how to notice subtle changes and communication signals that you cat is trying to convey to you and understand how you can adjust and adapt your approach to each individual animal.  This course includes 4 hours of live, interactive, virtual learning AS WELL AS, online course material, available to you 24/7 with lifetime access.

Taking what you observe, discover the versatile and adaptive TTouch body work techniques that allow you to make positive contact with your cat, in a way they enjoy and look forward to; deepening your bond and helping your feline friend become more comfortable and relaxed.

In addition to simple yet effective TTouch techniques, discover fun, interactive exercises that will engage your cat and help transform apprehension or indifference into curiousity and engagement.

Use your new skills in practical applications, learning how to help your cat become more comfortable in typically challenging everyday handling scenarios such as, Vet visits, nail trimming, and more!

This course can count (4 Academy credits) towards the Tellington TTouch Practitioner Program.

The Live Interactive portion of the course includes:

  • 4 hours of live learning sessions in a small, friendly group setting.
  • Access to an exclusive Facebook Group for ongoing questions and feedback
  • Recorded sessions for future viewing
  • Individualized advice and coaching about your specific cat.
  • Private Whatsapp group.

The online portion of the course includes:

  • 3 Lessons: Each consisting of several specific topics.
  • Over an hour of “how-to” videos and lectures about each specific concept and exercise
  • Downloadable 40 page Course Manual
  • 24/7 access to all materials

Check out the time zone converter for the course time in your area.

(shelter and rescue workers are entitled to a discount)

in Live Interactive & Online on 2024-11-10 thru 2024-11-24