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About Us > Our Teachers > Meet Our Instructors

Karin Freiling

Karin Freiling

Karin Petra Freiling was born and grew up in Germany. Since her early childhood, it has been a matter of her heart to practice and communicate connection and oneness between humans and animals. She discovered multiple ways of communicating with animals. Karin did her Master's degree in Biology on the interaction between pygmy chimpanzees and zoo visitors in several zoos in Germany. In the mid '90s, she discovered the Tellington TTouch® Method as an essential way of interspecies connection and worked with TTouch® on the apes.

She is an instructor for TTouch® for You - the Tellington Method for Humans and also an Instructor for TTouch® for dogs, and teaches many workshops for adults and children. She has been responsible for the rehoming of countless dogs that were considered to be untrainable from a local animal shelter. She inspired Linda Tellington-Jones to develop a certification training for humans in Europe and worked closely with her to establish the first European "TTouch-for-You" Curriculum.

Her versatile skills include profound knowledge of whole-brain and brain friendly learning, from which she developed an improved method for optimized learning and reading. She is also a natural practitioner for psychotherapy, NLP Master, dog physiotherapist, animal behavioral therapist, and lecturer for brain fitness at a notable German academy. Now she is working on her Ph.D. about interspecies connection worldwide in order to help people to open their hearts again and reconnect with animals and nature.

She lives in the wonderful countryside of Northern Germany, together with her wonderful cooking husband, her own little zoo comprising five dogs, cats, pigs, rabbits, chicken and always several animals for physical and behavioral therapy. Children love to learn TTouch® with these various species at her place and learn to interact in a respectful and loving way. For more information about Karin visit her website at www.viasolaris.de. Contact Karin Freiling at karin@karinpetrafreiling.de.

Marie Miller

Marie Miller

While assisting Linda Tellington-Jones at the UK Advanced Practitioner Training, Marie received the wonderful surprise of being awarded certification as TellingtonTTouch® Companion Animal Instructor. She was introduced to the Tellington Method by reading Linda's book and trained on the first companion animal practitioner clinics in the UK. Since graduating Marie has assisted at many companion animal practitioner training clinics, teaches one and two day TTouch® workshops and demonstrates at many events. Sarah Fisher and Marie frequently work together teaching courses and workshops and have co-authored two books about dog training and problem solving, combining TTouch® and Clicker Training.

Marie has had a life long love of animals and spent many happy hours growing up with animals from the local farm and ponies from the local stables. Dogs and cats became fully part of her life when she left home and was able to have pets of her own. She began to study companion animal behaviour and in 1980, set up Paws'n'Learn, a training and rehabilitation practice which uses force free methods. Marie is passionate about puppy training and the prevention of behaviour problems. She runs weekly classes, works 1-2-1 with companion animals and teaches workshops. Marie has been the resident trainer and behaviour advisor at Hollycroft Veterinary Centre since 1981.

To learn more about Marie, visit her website, www.pawsnlearn.com.

About Us > Research & Studies

Horse 2009 Immediate Benefits of TTouch® Reflected in EEG

Immediate and Cumulative Benefits from Tellington TTouch® Program Reflected in the EEG of An Anxious Mare

Robin Bernhard, LCSW, MEd, Sandy Rakowitz, Jessica Eure, MEd, EdS

Linda Tellington-Jones has created a gentle non-invasive system of bodywork comprised of specialized circular touches, lifts and slides that improves focus, balance and motor function, enhances learning and even promotes trust and communication amongst its users. Over the past 30 years, practitioners have seen both immediate and cumulative benefit from its use in training and healing animals and in healing the relationship between animals and their owners. After attending one of Linda's 5-day workshops in April 2005, I wanted to see if these techniques could help my injured mare to be comfortable while healing from a ligament injury and help us to improve our ability to communicate so that her balance problems under saddle would not degenerate into rushing out of control.

Read More

Events

Hands On -Tellington TTouch® for Small Critters, Exotics and More

Instructor: Robyn Hood, Senior Tellington TTouch Instructor

Includes a comprehensive self-paced online course!
£125.00
£108.00 – Guild members
£83.00 – Practitioner 2 and above

Introduction to Tellington TTouch for Multispecies Care – Cross Training for Your Skills

Discover a Revolutionary Approach to Animal Well-being and Connection
Join us for an immersive one-day workshop exploring the Tellington TTouch Method, a gentle, hands-on technique that transforms the way we interact with animals. Designed for animal enthusiasts, caregivers, and professionals, this session provides a unique opportunity to learn how to improve well-being, behavior, and cooperation while deepening trust and communication between humans and animals.
What You’ll Learn:

  • Tellington TTouch Bodywork: Master the foundational hands-on techniques that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve function for animals of all ages and species.
  • Multispecies Focus: While we’ll focus on dogs, cats, and people, you’ll also learn how to adapt these techniques for a variety of animals, including small farm animals, reptiles, alpacas, parrots, and more.
  • Tailored Solutions: Understand how to customize TTouch for each animal’s unique needs, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.
Workshop Highlights:

  • Hands-on Practice: Gain confidence through practical exercises applying TTouch techniques on multiple species.
  • Creative Movement Exercises: Explore innovative activities that enhance balance, focus, and cooperation.
  • Relationship Building: Learn how TTouch fosters trust and communication, creating stronger bonds with animals.
  • Applications for Daily Life: Discover how TTouch can help alleviate common behavioral concerns, enhance well-being, and fit seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Who Should Attend?

This workshop is perfect for:

Pet guardians looking to enhance their relationships with their animals.

Professionals in animal care, including massage therapists, trainers, and veterinarians.

Animal lovers eager to cross-train their skills and learn techniques for a wide range of species.

No prior experience is needed, and the techniques are easy to learn and apply. By the end of the day, you’ll have the tools and confidence to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the animals you care for—and in your own life, too!

Join us for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration, and unlock the potential of the Tellington TTouch Method for all species. Reserve Your Spot Now

Hands On -Tellington TTouch® for Horse

Instructor: Robyn Hood, Senior Tellington TTouch Instructor

£375.00 – Regular
£325.00 – Guild members
£250.00 – Practitioner 2 and above

Transform Your Connection with Horses Through the Tellington TTouch Method

Are you looking for new and innovative ways to understand and work with horses?

Whether you’re a professional trainer, equestrian enthusiast, or horse owner, the Tellington TTouch Method for Horses Workshop offers a fresh, effective, and low-stress approach to building trust, improving performance, and fostering well-being—both on the ground and in the saddle.
Why Join This Workshop?

Enhance Your Understanding of Horses
Learn to recognize and address subtle cues from your horse for better communication and a deeper bond.

Discover Low-Stress, Effective Techniques
Master gentle, innovative exercises that can easily be integrated into your current practices to improve performance and behavior.

Strengthen Your Relationship
Explore methods that enhance trust, cooperation, and connection with every horse you work with.
What You’ll Learn:

This hands-on workshop is designed to equip you with a wide range of practical skills that you can use to better understand and connect with horses.
Core Elements of the Workshop:

TTouch Bodywork
Learn gentle, effective techniques to promote relaxation, reduce tension, and support your horse’s physical well-being.

Groundwork Skills
Explore exercises that improve balance, coordination, and confidence while strengthening the bond between you and your horse.

Observation and Communication
Develop keen observation skills to understand your horse’s body language and behavior, leading to better training outcomes.

Introduction to Riding Concepts From the Ground
Gain insights into how Tellington TTouch principles can improve riding performance, with exercises that can be applied in and out of the saddle.
Bonus Learning Opportunities:

Registration includes instant access to our introductory online course!
Benefits of Attending:

Practical, Long-Lasting Skills
Learn techniques that can be integrated into any training program to enhance learning, communication, and connection.

Happier, Healthier Horses
Help your horse feel more comfortable, confident, and cooperative in all aspects of training and care.

Positive Learning Environment
Enjoy a fun, supportive atmosphere that caters to all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned equestrians.

Tailored Learning
Whether you’re new to the Tellington TTouch Method or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will meet you where you are. Reserve Your Spot Now
Interactive & Online Integrating a New Pet into Your Household

Interactive & Online Integrating a New Pet into Your Household

accreditations


Are you thinking about adding another animal companion into your home, but worried about integrating that animal into your current pack?

Perhaps you have had a problem with pack dynamics before? 

Or you just want to learn a little more about helping integrate shelter animals into new home?

Join Jyl Hershman- Ross (Tellington TTouch Senior Practitioner),  Friday, July 12th (5-7 pm CT) & and Saturday, July 13th(4-7 pm CT) and learn effective, mindful and positive ways to help successfully introduce a new pet into the home.

Jyl will introduce practical and effective Tellington TTouch as well as common sense positive, reward based training techniques to help new and old pets live together.

Develop trust & communication and discover simple, gentle, and effective ways to help your dog become more comfortable, self-controlled, and cooperative.

You will learn how to:

➔ Interpret your dog’s behavior in a non-judgmental way

➔ Notice a dog’s subtle body language for signs of stress or relaxation

➔ Use simple, relaxing body work techniques to support your dog and your relationship and their role in the household with other animals

➔ Support your dog to reduce anxiety and enhance self-confidence in a new home

➔ Recognize and acknowledge how your own state of mind will affect your dog

This workshop includes:

– 5 hours of LIVE, interactive instruction via Zoom

– Access to all session recordings for future review

– Instant, life-time access to the online course, “Tellington TTouch for Dogs: An Introduction” for solid foundation of knowledge and accessible review opportunities.

– Supportive Study Group Access

*This course counts as 9 CEU’s for CCPDT as well as 4 credits towards becoming a Certified Tellington TTouch Practitioner.

Register and gain instant access to an extensive, clearly laid out and detailed online course.  This course can be done at YOUR OWN PACE, before or after the LIVE sessions.

During the LIVE Zoom sessions, Jyl will expertly guide you on how to adapt the Tellington TTouch techniques and exercises to your own specific animals and even your self!

The class is small and allows for individualized advice and attention.  You will love the supportive, caring, community of animal lovers!  This course is suitable for dog guardians who are interested in the method to enhance their relationship.  All levels of experience and areas of interest are welcome.  The Tellington TTouch approach integrates easily into positive dog training methods.

Students will have immediate access to online material to cover at their own pace.  The online portion of learning consists of a logical, linear, “Tellington TTouch Method for Dogs: An Introduction”, which can be accessed at any time.  The online portion is not specific to integrating a new animal into the home but serves as a foundation for the techniques and exercises described in the live, interactive sessions.

The online portion of the course includes:

  • 8 Lesson Modules: Each consisting of several specific topics.
  • Over 24 “how-to” videos and lectures about each specific concept and exercise
  • Easy to follow mind maps
  • 24/7 – lifetime access to all materials
ttouch.ca
Interactive & Online Getting in TTouch® with Your Cat

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)

ttouch.ca
Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch® for Horses

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch® for Horses

$200.00 – $999.00
Begins February 14, 2026 | Online + Live Zoom Sessions


A six-month online Tellington TTouch® Immersion for horses, starting February 14, 2026. Learn gentle, trust-based techniques to improve behavior, confidence, and connection with guidance from Robyn Hood, guest sessions with Linda Tellington-Jones, and certified TTouch Instructors. Includes full curriculum access, twice-monthly live Zoom coaching, recordings, certification eligibility, and a bonus private consult. Open worldwide.

Enrollment is open throughout the course period.

This program combines depth, flexibility, and real-world application. Students learn within a supportive global community while receiving individualized coaching that is rarely available in large online courses. The holistic approach integrates bodywork, groundwork, saddle work, and behavior support, all based on cooperation, awareness, and trust rather than force.

Learning from home allows horses to remain relaxed and regulated, helping students apply what they learn immediately and effectively. Many participants report meaningful improvements in behavior, confidence, and connection without attending any in-person events.
An Invitation to Deepen Your Horsemanship

Whether you are beginning your Tellington TTouch certification journey or simply want to expand your skills and understanding in an inspiring, compassionate environment, this Immersion Course offers a rare opportunity to learn, grow, and connect—both with your horse and with a like-minded international community.

Payment plans are available. For more information, please email ttouch@shaw.ca.
 

Register today and begin your journey toward a deeper, more thoughtful partnership with your horse.
TTouch Training for Companion Animals

TTouch Training for Companion Animals

 

This class is sold out. If you'd like to be added to the wait  list please contact our office with phone number and email: kirsten@ttouch.com or call us at  866-813-8169

 

Tellington TTouch® Training for Companion Animals in Jefferson, MD
Three-day Workshop Aug 23rd – 25th, 2024

Schedule:

Day 1: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM

(Arrive by 9:45 AM to get settled)

Days 2: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Day 3: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM

 

Tuition: $595

A $300.00 deposit is due at the time of registration to hold a space in the workshop. The balance is due July  26th, 2024. Early-bird discount: Pay in full by July 1st  and receive $55.00 off.

Please note: If you pay your deposit with a credit card, any remaining balance will be charged to the same card 30 days before the start of the workshop unless you have paid in full or informed us of a different payment method.

Three ways to Register:
    • Online: see form below
    • Phone: Call our office to pay with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover.
    • PayPal: Send payment to forum@tellingtontraining.com.

Cancellation Policy:

  • Organizer Cancellation: If the session is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances or insufficient enrollment, all payments will be refunded.
  • Participant Cancellation: Cancellations made more than 30 days before the workshop will receive a refund minus a $100 administrative fee. No refunds for cancellations made within 30 days of the workshop, but funds can be applied to another training within one year of the cancellation date.

       
Animals attending the Training:  Dogs and other companion animals are welcome. Notify us when you register as there is a limit on the number of dogs. Complete and submit an Animal Profile Form one month before the workshop.

If bringing your dog:

  • Only one dog may participate per day due to space constraints.
  • Bring a crate, x-pen, or mat, water bowl, food & treats, proof of vaccinations or titer, and ID collar, lead, and any head halter or harness.

Guidelines to help us maintain good relations with our training facilities and partner hotels by:

  • Respect facility and hotel animal policies.
  • Safely contain your animal when unsupervised.
  • Leave facilities and hotel rooms in their original condition.

What to Wear: Comfortable clothing suitable for bending, stretching, and sitting on the floor.


Meals: Meals are not included. Bring your own lunch and snacks. Water, coffee, and tea will be available. There will be a one-hour lunch break each day.

Travel Information:

  • Airports:
    • Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) - 36 miles
    • Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI) - 58 miles
    • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) - 52 miles

Accommodation: For nearby hotels, visit Hotels.com or check Airbnb.com or VRBO.com.

Additional Information: Frederick, MD, is only 15 minutes away, offering dining, arts, shops, and entertainment. Enjoy outdoor activities like rock climbing, canoeing, and mountain biking. Washington D.C. and Baltimore are about a 50-minute drive from the training site.

 

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch for Dogs

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch for Dogs

course info


Are you a dog lover?

DO you want to help your dog become a calm companion?

Have you recently added a rescue or shelter animal to your family?

Do you have a dog who needs a little extra support or has some specific challenges?

Maybe you simply want some positive, mindful ways to be with your animal.

Join Dawn Jansen (Tellington TTouch Instructor), weekly, starting March 2nd and learn trust-based, gentle, effective and supportive techniques from the comfort of home. This includes 10 hours of live, virtual, group instruction and 24/7 access to a self-paced online study course.

Discover techniques designed to cooperatively:

 ✅ Help your dog be their BEST selves!

 ✅ Enhance self-control

 ✅ Develop good leash habits

 ✅ Reduce anxiety & fear

 ✅ Address reactivity

 ✅ Support senior & special need dogs

 ✅Develop trust & Communication

 

TTouch offers simple, gentle, and effective ways to help your dog become more comfortable, self-controlled, and cooperative.

 

You will learn how to:

➔ Interpret your dog’s behavior in a non-judgmental way

➔ Notice a dog’s subtle body language for signs of stress or relaxation

➔ Use simple, relaxing body work techniques to support your dog and your relationship

➔ Support your dog to reduce anxiety and enhance self-confidence

➔ Incorporate leash exercises to create more harmonious on-leash communication

➔ Recognize and acknowledge how your own state of mind will affect your dog

This workshop includes:

10 hours of LIVE, interactive instruction via Zoom

Instant, life-time access to the online course, “Tellington TTouch for Dogs: An Introduction” for solid foundation of knowledge and accessible review opportunities.

Supportive Study Group Access

*This course counts as 10 CEU’s for PPAB (PPG) and NAODI as well as 6 credits towards becoming a Certified Tellington TTouch Practitioner.

Register and gain instant access to an extensive, clearly laid out and detailed online course.  This course can be done at YOUR OWN PACE, before or after the LIVE sessions. 

During these sessions, Dawn will expertly guide you on how to adapt the Tellington TTouch techniques and exercises to your own specific animals and even your self!   Each session is recorded for future viewing and learning OR as catch-up, in case you miss the livestream.

This course is suitable for dog guardians who are interested in the method to enhance their relationship.  All levels of experience and areas of interest are welcome.  This approach integrates easily into positive dog training methods.

Students will have immediate access to online material to cover at their own pace.  The online portion of learning consists of a logical, linear, “Tellington TTouch Method for Dogs: An Introduction”, which can be accessed at any time.

The online portion of the course includes:

8 Lesson Modules: Each consisting of several specific topics.

Over 24 “how-to” videos and lectures about each specific concept and exercise

Easy to follow mind maps

24/7 – lifetime access to all materials

ttouch.ca
Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch® for Horses

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch® for Horses

Immersion Series with Robyn Hood & Guests

Join Tellington TTouch Method Instructor, Robyn Hood, as well as other guest instructors, including special sessions with Linda Tellington-Jones, and develop a deep level of understanding and skill that will transform how you understand, handle and train horses.

This course is the ideal option for anyone seeking an integrative and compassionate approach to horse training and management.  It will provide you with an incredible framework of philosophical understanding, observational skills, bodywork techniques, groundwork exercises, innovative tools, and work under saddle that can make what you already do well, be even better; all while developing a deeper, more trusting relationship.

Enjoy the logical, linear, learning of online learning along with the inspiring and adaptive format that includes 36 (up to 72 with both classes) hours of small, LIVE, Zoom sessions – all recorded for your convenience and on-going learning.

$999.00

Dates: Saturdays starting September 28, 2024
(Enrollment is open throughout this time period)

Time: 8:00 – 11:00 PT/ 16:00 – 19:00 GMT via Interactive Zoom Sessions
(Recorded in case you miss a session!)

AND/OR  (students may choose which session they attend)

Saturdays for Australia: 9:00 – Noon Sydney time/ Fridays:  14:00 – 17:00 PT

Full Details and Registration
Hands On - Tellington TTouch® for Dogs

Hands On - Tellington TTouch® for Dogs

Want a calm, confident canine companion? 

Looking for the skills to have more enjoyable, relaxing walks on leash? 

Maybe you just want to add to your existing skills?

Enjoy the positive, fun filled learning environment that looks at dog training in an all encompassing, whole, way.  This workshop can serve as an introduction to the Tellington TTouch Method for Dogs (and other Companion Animals) and build and refine the skills of more experienced students. 

Professionals dog trainers and dedicated dog guardians alike will benefit from the variety of practical techniques and unique approaches learned in this class!  Add layers of knowledge and skill to what you already to well and discover new ways of understanding and handling that you can integrate into your current program to achieve remarkable results.

During the session you will learn, develop and build on the fundamentals of Tellington TTouch Bodywork, Leash work, and Observation skills. 

These skills will empower you with a variety of innovative techniques and exercises to help address the most common issues confronting dog owners, trainers, and other professionals; in a forward thinking, low-stress, positive manner.

This is an ideal method to help enhance positive dog training modalities. Bring your own dog or work with one at the course.  There may be an opportunity to work with other species, such as horses, in a safe, confidence building way.

Can count to credit for Tellington TTouch Practitioner credits (8 or 12 credits), suitable for new and returning students.

 

Tuition

3-Day: $775 plus 5% GST

EARLY BIRD (Ends December 31, 2023) $650 plus 5% GST

5-Day: $1175 plus 5% GST

EARLY BIRD (Ends December 31, 2023) $950 plus 5% GST

 

Included in this course is our Online Course – “Tellington TTouch for Dogs – An Introduction”. $49.94 USD VALUE

Snacks, lunch and refreshments are included in the price.

Learn more about the Facility and Accommodations.

For cancellations made more than 30 days in advance of the training, a refund will be given minus a $100 administration fee. No refunds are possible for cancellations less than 30 days prior to the start of the training, unless we can fill your spot.  In some cases credit can go towards subsequent events.

We recommend that you purchase flight and hotel insurance for each event for which you register.

All prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars.

ttouch.ca
Tellington TTouch® Advanced Training for Dogs

Tellington TTouch® Advanced Training for Dogs

If you are a Tellington TTouch Practitioner or are currently in the certification program, here’s your chance to refine, update and expand you skill set!

Enjoy the positive, fun filled learning environment that looks at dog training in an all encompassing, whole, way.  With her fun, clear and innovative teaching style, Robyn Hood will bring your Tellington TTouch skills to the next level.

Develop and build on the nuances and details of Tellington TTouch Bodywork, Groundwork, and Observation skills.  Even if you think you already “know it” you will be amazed by the added layers of detail, understanding and refinement that come from an Advanced Training.

The Tellington TTouch Method is constantly evolving and developing.  Staying current with new exercises and practices will ensure you have the most up to date skills and knowledge that you can relay to your clients and take into your dog training program.

This counts as an Update for current Tellington TTouch Practitioners and 6 credits for those working towards certification (requires at least 14 completed credits)

 

Tuition: 3-Day: $605 plus 5% GST

For cancellations made more than 30 days in advance of the training, a refund will be given minus a $100 administration fee. No refunds are possible for cancellations less than 30 days prior to the start of the training, unless we can fill your spot.  In some cases credit can go towards subsequent events.

We recommend that you purchase flight and hotel insurance for each event for which you register.

All prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars.

ttouch.ca
TTouch® 3 Day In-Person Workshop with Maryse Perreault

TTouch® 3 Day In-Person Workshop with Maryse Perreault

Enjoy the positive, fun filled learning environment that looks at dog training in an all encompassing, whole, way.  This workshop can serve as an introduction to the Tellington TTouch Method for Dogs (and other Companion Animals) and build and refine the skills of more experienced students. 

Professionals dog trainers and casual dog lovers alike will benefit from the variety of practical techniques and unique approaches learned in this class! Develop and build on the fundamentals of Tellington TTouch Bodywork, Groundwork, and Observation skills.  These skills address the most common issues confronting dog owners, trainers, and other professionals; in a forward thinking, positive manner.

This is an ideal method to help enhance positive dog training modalities. Bring your own dog or work with one at the course.  There may be an opportunity to work with other species, such as horses, in a safe, confidence building way.

Can count to credit for Tellington TTouch Practitioner credits (6 credits), suitable for new and returning students

Tuition

3 Day Workshop $600 + HST Sale price $525 + HST Limited time only!

Can’t come all 3 days?

Saturday only: $225 + HST

Saturday and Sunday: $450 + HST

NB All prices are in Canadian dollars, and HST = 13%

Learn more about the Facility and Accommodations.

We recommend that you purchase flight and hotel insurance for each event for which you register.

All prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars.

ttouch.ca
Unlock Your Horse’s Potential

Unlock Your Horse’s Potential

8 Saturdays (July date TBA)
2 hours per session
All sessions recorded for repeat viewing or catch up

Join Linda Tellington-Jones for an in depth exploration in Developing a Profound Connection with Your Horse:
Heart to Heart • Cell to Cell • Soul to Soul

In Unlocking Your Horse’s Potential, world-renowned educator Linda Tellington-Jones will guide you through a proven, innovative, and deeply respectful approach—the Tellington TTouch® Method—to help your horse move safe and sound beyond old patterns and into greater ease, balance, and cooperation.

These interactive sessions will teach you how to truly see your horse: how personality, posture, tension, and balance influence behavior and learning. Drawing on decades of experience working with many breeds and disciplines around the world, Linda will show you how to assess each horse as an individual and how to integrate the Tellington Method into your work to bring out their very best.

Students will also learn together by sharing observations, questions, and experiences. This creates a warm sense of community and camaraderie, where everyone supports and learns from one another.

You’ll gain a practical and inspiring toolbox of TTouch bodywork, groundwork exercises, brilliant tools, and mindset shifts you can use immediately—whether you’re working with a sensitive horse, a reactive horse, a shut-down horse, a high-performance partner, or simply a horse you want to understand and connect with more deeply.

You will learn how small changes can create profound results—helping your horse be confident and safe in their body, clearer in their mind, and more willing in their heart.

What We Will Explore Together:
    •    How to assess, understand and influence your horses’ personality, behavior, potential and performance
    •    How the shape of the head reflects their personality
    •    How posture, balance, and movement reveal emotional and mental states
    •    Recognizing signs of stress, fear, confidence, and curiosity
    •    Supporting the nervous system to create ease and readiness to learn how TTouch®, groundwork, and simple awareness exercises can invite positive change
    •    Adapting our approach to honor each individual horse

Participants are welcome, though not required, to share photos and potential videos of their horses for Linda’s assessment and guidance.

This class is about understanding who the horse is and meeting them with empathy, clarity, and kindness.

 

Live on Zoom + Bonus Self-Paced Online Courses

We will meet live on Zoom for our Saturday sessions, allowing us to learn together no matter where you are in the world.

In addition, you will receive access to three self-paced online bonus courses, created to support and deepen your learning, full of easy to follow videos and lectures for reference and reminders:
    •    "All Wrapped Up: for Horses" Online Course
How TTouch Body wraps support balance, body awareness, confidence, and self-regulation.
    •    "Getting in TTouch with Your Horse's Personality" Online Course
A deeper exploration of personality types and their practical application.
    •    "Intro to Tellington TTouch for Horses" Online Course
An introductory course that oulines the most commonly used Tellington Method techniques and exercises.

These bonus courses are offered so you can return to the material, reflect, and absorb the work at your own pace.

Who This Class Is For:

This course is for horse lovers, trainers, professionals, and anyone who wishes to deepen their relationship with horses through understanding, respect, and mindful observation. No prior experience with TTouch is required—only an open heart and curiosity.

Class Format:

8 live Zoom classes, 2 hours each (Saturdays)
Teaching, demonstrations, stories, and time for questions
Bonus online classes included
A supportive, global learning community

My hope is that this course will help you see personality not as a limitation, but as a gift—a way of understanding how each horse experiences the world, and how we can support them in becoming more confident, balanced, and at ease.

When
Saturdays from 2:00–4:00 PM EST

April through June 2026:
11:00 AM–1:00 PM PT
12:00–2:00 PM MT
1:00–3:00 PM CT
7:00–9:00 PM GMT
8:00–10:00 PM CET
4:00-6:00 AM AEDT (Sunday)

Dates:  April 4 • April 18 • May 2 • May 16 • May 30 • June 6 • June 27, 2026 • July TBA, 2026
All classes will be recorded, giving you the flexibility to watch them any time after each session throughout 2026.

Balance of the tuition is due by March 6th.

$899
Tellington TTouch® Training for Dogs

Tellington TTouch® Training for Dogs

 

 

This Workshop is Full. If you'd like to be added to the waiting list, contact us here

 

Three-day Workshop: May 9-11th, 2025
Instructor: Linda Tellington-Jones

Schedule:
Day 1: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Arrive by 9:45 AM to get settled)
Day 2: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Day 3: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Tuition: $595
Deposit: $300 due at registration to hold your spot. Balance due by April 11th, 2025.
Early-bird Discount: Pay in full by March 28th to receive $55 off.

Please note: If you pay your deposit with a credit card, any remaining balance will be charged to the same card 30 days before the start of the workshop unless you have paid in full or informed us of a different payment method.

Three Ways to Register:

Online: Register Below
Phone: Call our office to pay with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover.
PayPal: Send payment to forum@tellingtontraining.com.

Cancellation Policy:
Organizer Cancellation: If the session is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances or insufficient enrollment, all payments will be refunded.

Participant Cancellation: Cancellations made more than 30 days before the workshop will receive a refund minus a $100 administrative fee. No refunds for cancellations made within 30 days of the workshop, but funds can be applied to another training within one year of the cancellation date.

Animals Attending the Training: Dogs and other companion animals are welcome. Notify us when you register as there is a limit on the number of dogs. Complete and submit an Animal Profile Form one month before the workshop.

If bringing your dog:
Only one dog may participate per day due to space constraints.
Bring a crate, x-pen, or mat, water bowl, food & treats, proof of vaccinations or titer, an ID collar, lead, and any head halter or harness.

Guidelines to help us maintain good relations with our training facilities and partner hotels by:

  • Respect facility and hotel animal policies.
  • Safely contain your animal when unsupervised.
  • Leave facilities and hotel rooms in their original condition.

What to Wear: Comfortable clothing suitable for bending, stretching, and sitting on the floor.

Meals: Meals are not included. Bring your own lunch and snacks. Water, coffee, and tea will be available. There will be a one-hour lunch break each day.

Travel Information:

Airports:
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) - 36 miles
Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI) - 58 miles
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) - 52 miles
We recommend that you purchase trip insurance for your flight, hotel, etc.

Accommodation: For nearby hotels, visit Hotels.com or check Airbnb.com or VRBO.com.

Additional Information: Frederick, MD, is only 15 minutes away, offering dining, arts, shops, and entertainment. Enjoy outdoor activities like rock climbing, canoeing, and mountain biking. Washington D.C. and Baltimore are about a 50-minute drive from the training site.

For more information about Fox Haven Farm
$595

Events > Past Events Archive

TTouch for You: Inspiring Self Care

Connect With The Magical Intelligence Of Your Body

Tellington TTouch® is a simple, proven method of touch that has been used to improve the lives of thousands of people and animals throughout the world. 

Learning TTouch® for Self-Care.Releasing anxiety and pain with TTouch® and gratitude.A supportive community sharing TTouch® in a global online setting.Connecting to the Creative Life Force in every cell in your body.The merging of science and spirituality.

This program offers credits for those looking for TTouch For You practitioner status. To learn more email kirsten@ttouch.com.

In this online, interactive course, you’ll discover what thousands have already experienced first-hand: the life-changing power of Tellington TTouch®!

$89/month or $979/yr

Dates and Times of Live Training Classes:

Each Class is 3 hours, and all classes are on Sundays at: 10:00 am Pacific Time / 11:00 am MT / 12:00 pm CT / 1:00 pm ET BONUS Weekly ‘Live With Linda’ Tuesdays each week at 11am -1 pm Pacific

Details and Registration

Our Method for > Horses > Success Stories

Workshop attendees comment!

"This line of work has opened up a new world of alternative  training which is sympathetic and supportive to the horse. The results were outstanding and immediate."
   – John

"TTOUCH has awakened me to a whole new (wonderful) world. I feel things and look at things (animals, people, etc.) in a renewed and understanding way. I myself feel different too. When in a situation I handle it much differently than before. I have stopped blaming the animal/person and begun to search for the real cause of the problem."  
   – Sharon Crement

"A novice can do the Tellington TTouch Method It's easy to make changes very quickly even for a novice person that doesn’t do the work as effectively as an experienced person. It’s not necessary to know the work perfectly.

"It's truly amazing to be able to make changes in an animal’s behavior, physical being or mental state, and have a reciprocation take place. For every animal I see being helped by TTouch, I always feel I have learned and changed in the process as well."   
   - Amanda L.

"The Tellington Method teaches me to be a partner with my horse so I can learn to be a team. It gives me the tools to LISTEN, OBSERVE, COMMUNICATE and then give back information to our animal friends so that they can teach me to become more effective. TTouch brings joy to my horse and me."
   – Amy Kendis

"This workshop has totally changed the way I view myself as a partner to my horse, our relationship and the relationship of the people and horses around me." 
   – Whitney Knauer

"The evening the clinic ended, my daughter was riding her Appaloosa mare (not at the clinic) in a drill team practice. The horse was a bit antsy and would not stand quietly. Rather than disciplining her as I have in the past, I spent a few minutes doing mouth work and some touches along her neck. She settled down immediately and stood quietly."
   – Denise Schoenladler

"Thank you for the marvelous lessons, ideas and awareness you’ve brought to my life.  My animals,  family and I appreciate what I’ve learned from your lessons, patience, carefulness etc. I enjoy meeting new horses and watching, reading and understanding them because of what I’ve learned from 'Getting in TTouch' and being able to help relax, soften and relieve tension from horses whose caretakers haven’t had the chance to study and use your methods."
   –  Terri Rexroad

Paste Worming

"I guess horses, like people, can develop a dislike for something over a period of time, especially when it becomes associated in their minds with some similar, but bad experience. Out elder mare, Canadair, developed a real hate for paste worming over a period of years, until our only recourse was to fit her with a snug, stout halter, lash her head firmly against a solid pole (of the power-pole type!) and wait until she gave up resisting, sighed, and let us do it. 

"She always looked faintly surprised after, as it was never (in recent years) as bad-tasting as she’d expected. Mind you, she's not an evil-minded horse, never bit or struck at us, just tried with all her strength and skill to keep her mouth out of reach. It took, I suppose, no more than five minutes in all, from haltering to worming, but it was nerve-wracking for me to handle her enormous resistance.  In fact, I always postponed worming the entire stable until me son who was very quiet and cool with horses could be home to help.

"Then I learned the mouth work at a Tellington TTouch weekend clinic and before the next worming day I gave the mare some “treatments.” Hey! She loved it! The mare that disliked anything going on around her head! We decided to try the worming sans power-pole, just my son’s hand on her halter, head over stall door, but essentially free to charge backwards. I worked the gums, played piano on her tongue, gently worked the nostrils, sides of the mouth and then slipped in the paste wormer - MAGIC!! No fight, no fuss, and all over in a matter of seconds! No fluke either; we’ve wormed twice since the breakthrough.  And next time I’m going to have a go at doing her all by myself!"

   – Pat Ritchie  in Alberta

Our Method for > Other Animals > Success Stories

Building Trust

Building Trust

By Missy Parker, Veterinary Nurse

"One of the most beneficial things I've seen in a long time for building trust and calming is the Tellington "TTouch" therapy system, developed by Linda Tellington-Jones.

"In my capacity as a Registered Veterinary Nurse, I have used TTouch to prevent dogs from going into shock (yes, it really does work!) until the vet could get there to help the dog. In my capacity as an obedience instructor, I have used portions of it in my greeting (and subsequent handling) behaviors with scared dogs (as well as with aggressive ones) to build up their trust in me while calming them in a class situation. I have also used portions of it when I'm wearing my "mom" and "wife" hats to "create an atmosphere more conducive to cooperation."

"I've never told the humans I've used it on that it was developed for animals.However, Baylor Hospital of Dallas, Texas (which is a teaching hospital) is now using it on their human patients - and telling them it was developed for animals - so maybe it's time for me to come out of the closet!

"I've seen TTouch work wonders in every case in which it has been used properly. Four particular cases come to mind. The first is a Shiba Inu who would "short-circuit" in my obedience classes when the stimulation level got at all elevated. With just five to ten minutes of TTouch from his owner before each class, the dog did so much better!

"The second: my client, a very competent middle-aged woman, had never owned a dog before she adopted a female GSD stray. My best guess as to this dog's story is that she was either from Schutzhund lines or a washout from a police dog program, then neglected severely for quite a while afterward. She had heartworms and callouses on every pressure point from, I believe, lying in a concrete-bottom kennel.

"Heidi (the dog) was the most accomplished kennel escape artist I've ever dealt with ... she escaped mine five different ways before I figured out how to keep her in - she had both removed the gate from its hinges and bitten the gate lock in half. I just love this dog because I have learned so much from her! When she first started coming to my classes, Heidi would roar in dragging Cathy (the owner) as though she were an embarrassing ball-and-chain to be completely ignored. Now, after a few months of class, TTouch, and good management, Cathy has a much nicer dog - who adores her. Like many other dogs I've seen on TTouch regularly, Heidi can be gently reversed when she goes into overdrive, and quickly, by the application of as little as two minutes of TTouch touches.

"The third: Silver is a toy poodle who was genetically predetermined to be a yappy, snappy, shaky mess. She is now a fabulous therapy dog, solid at CD-level obedience, a joy to her owner and to everyone else with whom she comes in contact. TTouch is used in Silver's daily life in general and, specifically, before and after therapy sessions with challenging clients. By the will of her owner, with a little help from me, this dog has gone from "sow's ear to silk purse." By the way, Silver has only 20% vision in one eye and about 40% in the other; she will eventually go totally blind.

"The fourth case is my husband, who has back trouble - the pain sometimes makes him very "crabby." TTouch helps him feel better and consequently elevates his mood, which has the effect of making everyone in my house feel better!

"In classes, I begin with the Tarantula/Plow techniques. Even “extreme” dogs seem to enjoy it so much and/or are so curious about what I'm doing that they momentarily interrupt their agenda to ... eat the people, eat the other dogs, die of fright, whatever. Then, when I have their interested attention, I move to Noah's March. If all's still well, I use the Lying Leopard. All of this is done while toning.

"Years ago, when I was in hard labor, a female Labor Attendant did it on me - and it worked then, too - although she had no idea that what she was doing would years later be called the TTouch. Her technique was a super light touch, Clouded Leopard all over my straining belly while she softly sang “Rock of Ages” to me! It was incredibly helpful at a very stressful and painful time.

"The effect of regular TTouch use seems to be cumulative if these techniques are used with a subject regularly, his or her body’s autonomic responses seem to take over faster and faster each subsequent time.

"So, from my experience, I heartily recommend TTouch as a great addition to your instructor’s toolbox...and thanks to Terry Ryan for the term!

"Next time you have a bad headache, try it on yourself - it works that way too!"

- Missy Parker thunderridgeinc@juno.com

Missy continued:

"Tellington TTouch was born out of Linda's extraordinary lifetime of work with horses, and has now been adapted to many species other than equine, including dogs, cats, hamsters, and many exotic animals. Linda's four years of study with Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, originator of the Feldenkrais method for horses, led her to the development of TTouch.

"Although TTouch is not technically a type of massage therapy, that would start to describe it. Actually, massage is done with the intent of affecting the muscular system - the intent of TTouch is the reorganizing of the nervous system and activating the function of the cells. I can describe it best by saying that it is a way of laying your fingers gently on the skin and moving them, as well as the skin they are touching, in a circular fashion, making repeating one-and-a-quarter circles clockwise. During this touch, the practitioner breathes rhythmically - in for the first half of the slow circle and out for the second half.

"According to Linda Tellington-Jones, TTouch is so simple to learn that a person having had less than one hour of instruction might make major changes in the behavior and personality of animals, and might considerably speed up the healing of wounds, injury or stiffness.

"Anna Wise, of the Evolving Institute of Boulder, Colorado, did a biofeedback study of TTouch practitioners which showed that both the brain waves of the practitioner, as well as those of the patient, were dramatically affected during the sessions. The brain waves registered what is known as "an awakened state" typical of healers, swamis, advanced meditators, and yogis as measured in a study by Maxwell Cate at the Institute for Psychobiological Research in London, England.

"There are several variations of TTouch hand positions; the amount of pressure used in the touch itself and where the touch is applied on the animal's body can vary, too. For instance, to prevent shock in injured animals of many species, as well as to calm the thunderstorm-phobic dog, T-Touch is applied to the ears.

"To make it easier to remember many of the hand/finger positions, they have been assigned the names of various animals: "Tarantula,” "Clouded Leopard,” "Flick of the Bear's Paw." With the TTouch, a practitioner may use "toning," a type of soothing vocalization.

"The Tellington TTouch Guidebook for Dogs describes the intended results of TTouch: to activate neural pathways to the brain, increasing an animal's self image and awareness, thereby improving its self-confidence and coordination. It adds: one need not know anatomy to be successful with this therapy, since using the TTouch anywhere on the body can improve health and awareness. Through the activation of its unused brain cells, an animal becomes more willing and able to learn. The TTouch develops a "cell-to-cell" between animal and human, a oneness which is a very special inter species, non-verbal communication."

Our Method for > TTouch-for-You > Why TTouch-for-You

TTouch & Heart Resonance & The Role of Intention

By Robin Bernhard LCSW, MED

The universality of Linda’s methodology is unique to TTouch. Linda didn’t have to develop different techniques to teach horses, whales, snakes, parrots, cats, dogs or humans. TTouch works for all species. Through touches that are universally understood, Linda and her students of TTouch, invite their animals to participate in harmonious mutual communication; cell to cell and heart to heart. In her book, Tellington TTouch, Linda states: “Instead of seeing the TTouch as something that I do to animals, which would create separation between us, I view the circles as a way to come into cellular harmony with them, a way of allowing my cells to speak to theirs. At a cellular level, no living thing is alien to any other, and so the sense of connections remains the same whether I’m working with a gerbil or a lynx, a kitten or an elephant.” Both the practitioner and the animal benefit from the mutual communication.

Linda believes that the TTouch practitioner’s intention for healing is communicated from the person to the animal (or person to person) on many levels. These intuitive ideas are now being scientifically documented by The Institute of HeartMath with new research about mind-body communication and the heart. Research at The Institute of HeartMath has shown that we can regulate heart rhythm coherence by holding positive feelings and intentions. Increased heart rhythm coherence produces more alpha brainwaves, enhanced awareness and improved cognitive performance. Alpha frequencies induce a state of tranquility, not unlike the tranquility experienced during TTouch, and interestingly, alpha brainwaves are associated with peak performance. The results of the research at the institute of HeartMath supports the hypothesis “that the changes in brain activity that occur during states of increased psychophysiological coherence lead to changes in the brain’s information processing capabilities. Results suggest that by using heart-based interventions to self-generate coherent states, individuals can significantly enhance cognitive performance.” It would be very interesting to see if TTouch enhances heart rhythm coherence. I suspect that it does.

The heart produces an energy field that can be measured for five feet in all directions. It is quite possible that all species are able to perceive influences from another being’s heart from a short distance. When humans communicate and touch is involved, the brain registers the heartbeat of the other in the EEG, physiological evidence that we are influenced by another’s heart rhythm chaos or coherence. Research has shown that horses are sensitive to the heart energy fields produced by humans and that humans are sensitive to the fields produced by the horse’s heart. The practitioner of TTouch knows well the experience of peace that comes while engaged in the practice of TTouch. Scientific knowledge about the energetic communication from the heart suggests that TTouch practitioners are energetically engaging their animal partners at the deep level of the heart. When the TTouch practitioner consciously holds the intention of healing and a compassionate attitude to generate heart rate coherence within the self, the person or animal being touched benefits from the calming influence of the energy field created by the practitioner’s heart. The research at the Institute of Heart Math suggests that the heart to heart engagement is reciprocal and thus, we have the beginnings of scientific documentation for the experience of healing intention, compassion, respect and positive regard that is part of TTouch practice.

There are more neurons running from the heart to the brain than from the brain to the heart. Some research suggests that the heart directs brain regulation and not the other way around. Linda has stressed the importance of holding a compassionate attitude coupled with the desire to support healing as the correct mind-set for the TTouch practitioner to allow the heart to influence the work. The research on the power of the heart from The Institute of HeartMath documents the scientific basis for what Linda understood intuitively about the heart’s influence on TTouch outcome and the mutual benefit for the practitioner and the animal when the practitioner intentionally generates a genuinely positive heart felt connection between the self and the animal during a TTouch session.

On the other hand, forceful methods generate fear and impede “thinking” as the horse moves into its instinctual fight/flight survival mode. During fight/flight activation, thinking is shut-down in favor of split-second non-thinking reflexive reactions that the horse can’t control. It is often in this fear driven state that horses can’t meet the demands placed upon them, for which they are frequently punished and pushed further into fear, pain and freeze responses. Instinctual reactions may be activated through a dominating relationship, and animals can be managed through such training methods. TTouch does not elicit instinct driven behavior mediated by the limbic system, rather Linda seeks to calm the limbic system and stimulate learning that is mediated by the cortex through a relationship infused with a heart-felt connection.

Shop > Horses > Books

Strike A Long Trot: Legendary Horsewoman Linda Tellington-Jones

Strike A Long Trot: Legendary Horsewoman Linda Tellington-Jones

This book chronicles the distinguished early equestrian career of Linda Tellington-Jones.

$20.00

Worldwide > Animal Ambassadors International

1988 Animal Ambassadors International - Pilot Program in Idaho Schools

I've just been through a remarkable experience. It actually began last fall, when I did a pilot program introducing Animal Ambassadors International® and TTEAM to elementary school children in my home state of Idaho. The TTEAM portion of the program was exciting and well received. We could see a wonderful thing happening: children becoming more responsive, more caring. We did not so much teach the children as awaken something they already had within themselves, something that can be very beautiful in a child. I say "we" because it was the animals who were the teachers. The TTouch was the connection that made it possible, but I was as surprised as anyone at some of the "lessons" the animals taught us.

We also demonstrated how an Animal Ambassadors International unit can be used to teach natural history and science. Each child chose an animal to befriend, protect, and learn more about. Many of the children also wrote a poem on behalf of their animal.

The content was rich, the program was successful and yet something was missing: the cross-cultural element Animal Ambassadors International began as an international celebration of the importance or animals in our lives. Linda Tellington-Jones invited American children to send pictures of their pet to her to take to Russia. Many children responded. The pictures were displayed in Gorky Park and the Russians were deeply touched by this expression of friendship.

I tried to introduce an international awareness into my school program, but it just didn't have the energy of the other elements of the program. In trying to analyze it and discover what was blocking the flow I realized pretty quickly that it was myself. I could not project interest in what I knew so little about. I could not make it real for them.

Fortunately a chance came to remedy the situation a little bit. On January 5, Linda organized an Animal Ambassador day for 15 Russian children who made a whirlwind tour of the US with Youth Ambassadors. Out of this experience grew the past two days and some exciting suggestions from teachers that I can hardly wait to pass on. But first let me describe what we did and what happened.

Most of the children had had at least a brief introduction to TTEAM last fall. A few had earned Animal Ambassadors International certificates. So it was a heartwarming reception I got from these children when I returned. The age range was 7 through 13, with most being 8 or 9. They were quite a bit younger than the Youth Ambassadors. But I was to find out they still responded to the Youth Ambassadors as one child to another.

I began by telling them about the Russian Youth Ambassadors in San Francisco. I told them everyday things, for example some of the comments the Russians had made about our food in the Youth Ambassador newspaper, "The Bridge." We looked at a globe to see what an immense country Russia is, and I talked about how the Soviet Union is actually many countries in one. We traced on the globe to find a Russian city exactly opposite us, only to find a city with a name we couldn't pronounce. After a few minutes' discussion I put on a record of Russian music -- explaining"balalaika" as best I could -- and then I taught the kids the dance the Russians had done the night of the concert at the Dakin home in San Francisco.

Fun? The teachers couldn't stand it. Soon teachers and aides -- everybody -- was whirling around. Nobody wanted to stop. The kids could do the difficult steps so easily it was amazing. We all had a grand time. This happened in class after class. In one class it was super because after we stopped the dancing one child said, "I wish we could write to some Russians." What a lead-in. We left the Russian musician and they wrote their letters.

The next day was thrilling because the kids had been doing some thinking on their own. They wanted to know about the Russian alphabet, why we spell their country U.S.S.R. and they write it C.C.C.P. One boy wanted to write his letter not about animals at all but about stopping nuclear warfare. I told him to give it a try if he wished, but he decided on his own that maybe his first letter should be about animals because he really had a super animal story to tell. Last fall he had adopted wolves as his totem animal and this winter he had had a chance to help a wolf. He would save nuclear disarmament for another letter.

It's important to remember that some of these letters are from kids who have never written a letter before. Many of these kids are what they used to call "under-achievers." They don't try. Well, today they tried. They tried so hard. I think they did a beautiful job. I hope it comes across how genuine and honest these letters are. The kids were not being creative, they were just being. They put their hearts into these letters and they did it in their own way, trying to be neat and readable, trying to spell the words correctly to make it easier for the Russian child who would read it. I'm not sure the Russians will understand what kind of dog a "cocker spaniel" is, but otherwise...

I wish I could put into words how important I feel this program is. These kids are not the privileged, some come to school in rags. They may never have another chance to make this connection. Yet in 10 years most of them will be voters. Will they still care about wolves and nuclear disarmament, and will they still be capable of signing "Your best friend" in a letter to an unknown Russian?

NOTE: TTEAM is an acronym of "Tellington TTouch Equine Awareness Method." Since this article was written, Linda decided to use a brand name for all the facets of the TTouch organization. Currently, that is Tellington TTouch® Training.

1987 The Value of TTouching Stuffed Animals

TTEAM News International December, 1987 Vol 7 No 5 P. 6.

The following article appeared in Bear Tracks - The Journal of the Good Bears of the World. The article is charmingly written and presents a side of Animal Ambassadors International® which recognized animals as our friends and teachers. However the reporter failed to state why the children brought their stuffed animals to class to learn the TTouch on them. Including stuffed animals as a part of teaching the TTouch in the schools recognizes the importance of stuffed-animal-friends for children who don't have animals at home. Just because stuffed animals don't need to be fed doesn't mean they don't have individual personalities.

The idea of having a stuffed animal to demonstrate the TTouch came to me several years ago in Los Angeles when I was asked, at a social gathering, how the TTouch worked. There was no cat or dog in residence, but a lovely soft stuffed polar bear was lying on the couch. I demonstrated a few minutes of circles on him and someone said delightedly, and maybe kiddingly, "look his eyes are softening." Since that day we have had many stuffed animal volunteers. How many of you have teddies and other stuffed animals in your house?

ANIMAL AMBASSADORS
by John Watson

In our last edition, Teddies to the Rescue by Alexandra Kurland was reviewed in the "Bears and Books" section. While it's a charming and beautiful book in and of itself, there is much more than meets the eye here! Author Alexandra Kurland has been using this book, along with her real life teddy Kenyon Bear, in a wonderful program that encourages understanding between people and animals around the world, the Animal Ambassadors International® Program.

Teddies to the Rescue tells the story of Kenyon Bear and his bear friends who live at the Shuttle Hill Herb Shop, (Alexandra notes that the bears and the herb shop are indeed, quite real.) The book, beautifully illustrated by Mark Kenyon, finds the teddies rescuing a fellow bear from a home where he is unloved. During the rescue mission real animals assist the bears in their efforts and friendships are formed.

We all know the importance of animals in our lives. Many of us find friends and teachers in our pets. From our childhood pets, we learn love, loyalty and responsibility. The Animal Ambassadors International Program is an international cultural exchange organization whose primary goal is to celebrate the importance of animals in our lives while encouraging intercultural understanding.

Here's how it works: school children bring their own stuffed toys to meet Kenyon Bear when he and Alexandra Kurland visit classrooms. Alexandra uses the book and the bears to guide the children through the story telling process. Kenyon takes the children to many lands where different animals are met through the children's own imaginations. The children ask each animal if they have any stories, words or songs for them. By the end of the session each child has his/her own special animal friend.

"I end by telling them that their animals would always be with them to tell them stories," says Alexandra. "All they had to do was listen." She adds that there is something the children can then do for their animal friends. "Many of the animals who come to us need our protection. They're having a tough time surviving, and one way we can help them is by learning more about them." She then asks each child to read a book about the animal who came to them.

Kenyon Bear acts as a story collector for the Animal Ambassadors International Program. There are story collectors in other parts of the world. The all collect animal stories. So, Alexandra asks the children to send in the stories that their animal friends have shared with them to Kenyon at the herb shop. Kenyon then sends each child an Animal Ambassadors International® Certificate.

The stories are then sent on to Animal Ambassadors International® headquarters in San Francisco where they are compiled into newsletter form and sent to children participating in similar programs as far away as Australia and the Soviet Union! Stories from the children overseas are sent back to San Francisco to be shared with the American students. Thus, not only are stories and information exchanged, but an international goodwill link is made between children of many countries.

Alexandra adds that the program is not limited to school groups. "Anyone who loves animals can join in the sharing," she says. In fact, wouldn't our own Good Bear Dens be just the perfect type of folks to join in? "Bear Dens could spend a wonderful evening telling animal stories which could then be compiled and sent on the Animal Ambassadors International®," says Alexandra. We couldn't agree more, Alexandra and we'd love to hear from any of our dens or bears-at-large who decide to participate. We would love to have our Good Bear Dens associated with such a worthwhile project.

Reprinted with permission.

 

2004 Visit to the Oakland Zoo Goat Rangers and Giraffes

In October, 2004 I joined Practitioner Jaynellen Kovacevich and her Oakland Zoo "Goat Rangers" for a presentation to the youth and their parents. Jaynellen's program won the Oakland Zoo "Volunteer of the Year" award for 2003.

Jaynellen arranged this presentation and potluck lunch with me as a reward for the Goat Rangers.

Their parents were invited to spend the day at the zoo with their rangers, the youngest volunteers at the zoo, to learn more about the program and the benefits of TTouch. This was also an opportunity for the parents to hear about the special contribution the Goat Rangers have made to the zoo and to show pride in them for their accomplishments.

It was especially wonderful to have this chance to honor the work of Jaynellen. She is both a Companion Animal and a TTEAM Practitioner in addition to being a special education teacher. Jaynellen has been teaching TTouch in her school classes for almost 20 years, since the beginning of the Animal Ambassador program.

I talked about the history of Animal Ambassadors International® and how I was inspired with the idea of Animal Ambassadors International from my work in Russia with children and animals beginning in 1985. That was the year that I organized a telephone exchange between a school in Moscow and a school in Utah. In both schools the kids could hear each other (through the interpreters) over loudspeakers that could be heard ri all the classrooms. How rewarding it is to see this concept of animals being our ambassadors for promoting understanding between people and animals these 19 years later.

I presented the Goat Rangers with Animal Ambassador certificates that state, "I hereby vow to use my hands, my heart and my voice to speak for and protect all . . . . . (This space is then filled in with the name of the animal or animals the recipient chose. Many of the youth wrote in "all animals.”)

After lunch we spent an hour with the goats and sheep in the petting zoo, where the rangers introduced me to their favorites, including Pygmy goats, an Alpine, a Nubian, a La Mancha goat and a flock of Barbados sheep. It was exciting and impressive to watch the Goat Rangers as they TTouched several of the senior goats who are being treated by the zoo veterinary staff and zookeepers for arthritis. Educational staff members and keepers have noted that the Goat Ranger program and TTouch have been beneficial to these older goats as well as the other goats and sheep.

Jaynellen has been teaching this class twice a month for almost four years at the Oakland Zoo and has shared the benefits of TTouch with many educational staff members, zookeepers and docents. When she began the program, many of the sheep and goats shied away from being touched. They were used to the public feeding them, but often they were approached by young children pulling on their horns, face or legs. In return, the goats often tried to escape by butting the children. Sometimes parents pushed or hit the goats and sheep to keep them away when they were aggressive about getting food. Not exactly ideal for a petting zoo.

Jaynellen taught her Rangers how to teach visiting children to quietly and respectfully groom the goats and sheep with a soft brush and to do some TTouches on them. Every two weeks for the past four years the Goat Rangers have been handling the goats and sheep in this way.

I just could not get over how gentle and relaxed the animals are. Normally one has to be careful around goats with horns because they can make abrupt moves with their heads and hurt you unintentionally. These goats are so quiet and careful with their heads and will lie still for ages to be groomed gently and TTouched. This gives visiting children and their parents a new way to be around animals with gentleness and respect.

Jaynellen and Avril Keimey, one of the first Goat Rangers, commented that the behavior of the goats and sheep changed dramatically with the use of TTouch and brushing. Avril had this to say about the program: "I used to go to the Zoo when I was younger, and I was one of those kids who was afraid to go into the petting zoo because there were goats jumping on people. About four years ago, I became a Goat Ranger, and started doing TTouch on the goats and sheep, and showing little kids how to pet them nicely. In the time I've been a Goat Ranger, I have seen a huge improvement in the animals' behavior. They approach people instead of running away. I now see very few kids who are afraid to go up to the goats."

Later in the day, Roland and I were shown video footage of the Goat Rangers teaching visiting kids of all ages, including parents, how to gently brush and TTouch the goats and sheep. It is fascinating and inspiring to watch kids enter the area with rambunctious behavior, and within five minutes be relating quietly to the animals. It's totally intriguing to listen to these young Goat Rangers demonstrate and explain exactly how to gently brush the goats. On the video you see goats lying perfectly still, often with eyes half closed, or sometimes lying flat on their sides, enjoying every minute of the interaction. These Rangers are awesome Animal Ambassadors and articulate, patient teachers.

Gail Ellis, School Programs Manager, The Oakland Zoo, said: "There has been an obvious and dramatic change in the behavior and temperament of both the animals and the youth involved. It has been amazing to see."

The "Goat Rangers" are volunteer kids between the ages of 12 to 17. The youth have to commit to six months of volunteer work to be accepted in the program and Jaynellen puts them through a rigorous interviewing process before they are accepted.

NOTE: TTEAM is an acronym of "Tellington TTouch Equine Awareness Method." Since this article was written, Linda decided to use a brand name for all the facets of the TTouch organization. Currently, that is Tellington TTouch® Training.

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