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About Us > Our Teachers > Meet Linda > Accolades
Linda Receives Honorary Doctorate Degree
On June 21, 2008 Linda Tellington-Jones received an Honorary Doctorate degree from the Wisdom University and was granted the position of Director of the Institute for Interspecies Connection.
This unique university, licensed by the State of California, is accredited by the World Association of Universities and Colleges and the Accreditation Commission International (ACI). The university, a global learning community, is committed to the pursuit of wisdom as a way of life.
Linda Tellington-Jones, the founder of Tellington TTouch Training, has influenced hundreds of thousands of people and animals around the world with her extraordinary teachings. TTouch is a gentle hands-on technique that accelerates learning and enhances behavior, performance, and the well-being of all species, as well as deepening the bond between humans and animals. The work honors the body, mind and spirit of animals and their people.
Jim Garrison, the university's president and chairman, says of this honor bestowed upon Linda: "Wisdom University is giving Linda an honorary PhD for her decades of work with the Tellington TTouch, which has contributed enormously to what we know about both animal and human healing and behavior, and for the work she has done to expand the boundaries of inter-species communication. She is joining the university as Chair of Interspecies Connection and the Director of the Institute for Interspecies Connection."
Dr. Garrison is also founder and president of the Gorbachev Foundation/USA, which set the stage for the establishment in 1995 of the State of the World Forum, a San Francisco based non-profit institution created to establish a global network of leaders dedicated to creating a more sustainable global civilization.
Linda says of her affiliation with Dr. Garrison, "I worked closely with Jim Garrison when he was director for the Esalen Institute's Soviet American Exchange program. In the 1980s and 1990s I went to Russia as a citizen ambassador 10 times, and taught TTouch to the Russian Olympic dressage and jumping teams. I also taught a 10-day course for Russian veterinarians at the Bitsa Olympic Center, as well as working with the Moscow Zoo and the Russian Academy of Science."
When asked if this doctorate degree and director position would change anything for her, Linda smiled and said, "This has given me an umbrella under which to gather and acknowledge the gifts we receive from animals and other forms of Nature. We are now able to prove scientifically why TTouch works on so many levels what we have known intuitively for years. As director for the Institute for Interspecies Connection, it is my intention to support scientific studies and to raise awareness of the many forms of interspecies connection around the world."
Linda Tellington-Jones has been honored with numerous awards throughout the years, including the Western States Hall of Fame, American Riding Instructors Association Lifetime Achievement Award, Horsewoman of the Year Award, the American Riding Instructors Association Master Instructor Award, the Ronald Reagan Good Citizen Award and most recently, the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame. She is also a graduate of the Feldenkrais Professional Training at the Humanistic Psychology Institute, California.
Her latest book is in the field of human health: TTouch for Healthcare. In addition to writing 22 books about her work published in 15 languages, she has developed TTouch curriculum for the University of Minnesota Center for Spirituality and Healing. Linda has spent decades teaching people how to be effective with TTouch; today there are more than 1,600 certified practitioners teaching TTouch in 36 countries.
About Us > Our Teachers > Meet Our Instructors
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.
Debby Potts
For as long as she can remember, Debby knew she would spend her life working with animals. She began to live the TTouch® philosophy of creative problem solving even before she had any idea this would be her life’s work; she was extremely allergic to anything covered with hair or fur!
Of course she dreamed of having a dog. Her turtle named Herman and her canary, Tangie, were wonderful but it wasn’t the same as thoughts of walks around the block with her very own dog. One day her parents learned that poodles didn’t shed. Shoni, a silver miniature poodle, soon became her best friend.
Debby’s interest in health and well-being was sparked by her childhood companion animals, and continued with her becoming one of Oregon's first board certified veterinary technicians. She grew up breeding and showing horses, which gave her an extensive background into working with many different breeds and disciplines of horses. A horse born with severe neurological damage initially brought Debby to Tellington TTouch® Training in 1984 after the veterinarians had done all they could to help the filly. The amazing progress Spirit made inspired Debby to use the Tellington techniques to improve the lives of animals and their people on a physical, mental and emotional level.
Debby’s passion for helping people and animals in a fun, positive and creative way is evident in the many workshops and trainings she teaches every year. She has been a popular speaker at various international conferences including the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and the International Symposium on Rescue Dogs. She established TTouch® in Japan and oversees the Tellington TTouch® Companion Animal Practitioner Training there.
From the beginning, Debby has used the Tellington Method to help humans as well as animals. Today Debby frequently works with people to help them reduce pain, recover from illness or injury and to improve mobility and function. She finds the Tellington work and philosophy to be an important part of helping people to find balance and well being in their lives. She often says, “TTouch® isn’t just what I do, it’s who I am.” TTouch® philosophy has strongly influenced her life and that of her family. Her two wonderful sons were raised with these concepts and often asked their mom for TTouch® when they had bumps and bruises.
Debby travels much of the year teaching trainings and working privately with individuals in North America, Europe, South Africa and various parts of Asia. She lives near Portland, Oregon with her human and animal family. For more information about Debby visit her website www.IntegratedAnimal.com.
Anke Recktenwald
"At least one person in every household should be acquainted with TTouch For You." This mission propels Anke Recktenwald to share this method whenever possible, leveraging her extensive knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and practical expertise.
Anke has been immersed in the Tellington Method for horses since 1987 and has been teaching it full-time since 1999 as a self-employed practitioner. She remains dedicated to learning from Linda's unique insights, not only in Tellington techniques but also in broader aspects of life and communication, which she finds deeply intriguing. Anke's commitment to precision is valued by Linda.
During her training to become a Tellington teacher for horses, Anke was introduced to Feldenkrais through Edie Jane Eaton, an experience that left her pleasantly surprised and inspired. Overcoming a herniated disc through individual Feldenkrais sessions in Saarland prompted her to pursue a four-year training in the method. Integrating Feldenkrais into her work with horses, riders, and individuals with health challenges has enhanced her understanding and application of the Tellington Method.
Anke has collaborated with Linda Tellington Jones for many years, including spending time in Hawaii assisting at trainings, proofreading new books, and gaining firsthand knowledge. Based in Germany, she travels extensively across Europe for courses, offering motivating online programs and personalized sessions, including home visits when necessary. Her courses equip therapists and teachers with effective tools for their practices.
In addition to her teaching efforts, Anke promotes the Tellington TTouch method through articles, conferences, interviews, and social media, further expanding
Visit Anke's website for more information.
Lindy Dekker
Lindy started riding at age 10 in Stellenbosch near Cape Town, South Africa. The majority of the horses were rescued racehorses with problems. She was always surrounded by animals and her parental home was never without at least two dogs and two cats. She was given a rescued donkey in 1967 and had him for four years.
After studying Biochemistry, Microbiology and Genetics at university, Lindy moved with her husband Rick to Johannesburg in 1979. There she changed careers to become a computer programmer, and she is still involved in doing support for a consulting company.
In 1987 Lindy reached her dream and acquired her first horse 'Babyshoes' (ex-racehorse TB gelding) who stayed with her for nearly 21 years. Lindy has competed in dressage to Elementary level. In March, 1999 she attended a Natural Healing course for animals that included Reiki and Aromatherapy as well as an introduction to the Tellington TTouch® Method. She started her own therapy business in 2000. In January, 2001 she attended her first five-day TTouch® workshop for horses and hasn't looked back. She has been organizing the Tellington TTouch® practitioner training clinics in Johannesburg since 2002.
Now Lindy is a Tellington TTouch® Instructor for Companion Animals and for Horses. Besides organizing the practitioner training clinics for the Tellington TTouch® Method for horses, she gives clinics as well as private consultations for both horses and companion animals while traveling to all sorts of interesting places!
To learnmore about Lindy, visit her website, www.lindydekker.com.
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 learnmore about Marie, visit her website, www.pawsnlearn.com.
Events
Interactive & Online Integrating a New Pet into Your Household
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
Develop Your Horse’s Potential
Do you want to learn simple, easy and horse friendly exercises and techniques that can transform your horse’s posture, behaviour and overall performance?
Do you have a horse who is coming back into work or has past trauma or habits from poor training, injury or just long-term patterns of tension?
Would you like to learn low-stress, effective, safe and innovative techniques and exercises that can be integrated into what you already know and do?
Do you want to enhance the relationship you have with your horse?
This weekend course will provide an overview to identifying functional, weight carrying posture and provide bodywork, ground work, and innovative exercises to help you offer your horse discover new possibilities of movement, balance and posture with long lasting benefits.
Discover how to train your eye to notice dysfunctional patterns of posture, muscle development and areas of tension so you can start being more aware of how your handling and training is positively, or negatively, impacting your horse’s physical well-being.
Learn simple, effective, and non-invasive body work techniques to help encourage relaxation, breathing and trust. These exercises can be used by horse owners of all level and no previous anatomy knowledge is required.
Mindful, low-stress, functional ground work exercises in hand and over poles will give you beneficial ways to help your horse find new patterns of movement that will not re-create tension patterns caused by old habits.
In addition to bodywork and groundwork techniques, Mandy will introduce TTouch Body Wraps and SURE FOOT Equine Stability Pads as additional, horse guided tools that can transform postural patterns at a deep, long lasting level.
Can count to credit for Tellington TTouch Practitioner credits.
Included in tuition is access to our Online Course – “Happy Horse Course: Tellington TTouch Method”. $79.94 USD VALUE
Snacks and refreshments are included.
Learnmore 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.
$425.00
All prices are quoted in Canadian Dollars
ttouch.ca
Hands On -Tellington TTouch® for Dogs
Hands On -Tellington TTouch® for Dogs: with Robyn Hood(April 6-8) 2025) Somerset, UK
$488.00
Date: April 6 – 8, 2025
Discover the Secret to a Happier, Healthier, and More Confident Dog!
Are you ready to transform your relationship with your dog and create a calmer, more enjoyable experience—whether at home or on your walks?
Imagine your dog feeling relaxed, resilient, and ready to tackle the world by your side. With the Tellington TTouch Dog Training Workshop, you can unlock the tools to make this a reality.
This workshop will be led by the renowned Robyn Hood, a Tellington TTouch Senior Instructor with decades of experience. Robyn has worked alongside Linda Tellington-Jones to bring this innovative method to people and animals worldwide. Known for her engaging teaching style and profound understanding of animal behavior, Robyn will guide you every step of the way in mastering these transformative techniques.
With her deep expertise and passion, Robyn has helped countless professionals and dog guardians create happier, healthier relationships with their companion animals. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field!
Full Details and Registration
Tellington TTouch® Training for Horses
Location: de Stoethoeve, Birkstraat 131, Soest, Netherlands
Time: April 2 from 10 AM to 5 PM, April 3 and 4 from 9 AM to 4:30 PM (times may change in consultation with Robyn).
Cost: € 475, early bird discount of €50: if registered and paid before February 15, the cost is € 425. Coffee, tea, snacks, and use of horses is included.
Included as preparation are 2 webinars on February 26 and March 26 from 7:30 PM to 9 PM, by Vanda Oosterhuis together with Lily Peters. The webinars will be in English and Dutch.
There are enough horses to work with and limited opportunity to bring a horse. Some paddocks with electric fencing are available and there are 2 or 3 simple stables in the barn. Cost for horse: € 35 a day including hay.
Content of the training: The final program will be put together shortly before the training by Robyn, depending on the participants and the horses.
What will certainly be covered:
- The different TTouches, not only how to apply them, but especially how the horse responds: what does it say, what does it show, what does it need?
- Robyn will teach you to closely observe the small signals that a horse gives, what it communicates to you, and she is an expert in horse language.
- We will work with body wraps in various ways, learn how to put them on and notice what they do for a horse.
- The groundwork, the so-called "Playground of Higher Learning," indicates that it is fun and very educational for both horse and human, teaching you a lot about different ways of leading a horse and how that affects its balance and body awareness.
and +31-622548255
If you want to become a TTouch® practitioner and want to know what the training entails, you can find all information at: learn.ttouch.ca/equine-certification/
Interactive & Online Getting in TTouch® with Your Cat
TTouch® for Cats with Toni Shelbourne
Dates: Sundays – February 2nd & 23rd, 2025
Time: 16:00 – 18:00 GMT/ 11:00 – 13:00 EST – via Interactive Zoom Sessions (recorded for repeated viewing)
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
Academy Credits: 4
On February 2nd & 23rd, 2025 (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!
View Details and Register
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
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.
Learnmore 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
Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch for Dogs
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
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.caTTouch® for You and your Horse
TTouch® for You and your Horse with Linda Tellington-Jones in HawaiiThree-day TTouch® for You and your Horse December 8th – 10th, 2024
TTouch for your Horse, Dog and You - Demo December 7th, 2024
Instructor: Linda Tellington-Jones
3 day Horse class 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
1 day demo schedule:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
TUITION:
1 day TTouch for your Horse, Dog and You demo (see Dec 7th): $125 if you are participating at the 3 day horse class your tuition for the demo is discounted at $75.
3 day TTouch for You and your Horse class tuition: $695
We highly recommend that you participate at the demo on Saturday December 7th since you will get a wealth of information about the TTouch Method and it will enhance your learning experience during the 3 day class.
A $300.00 deposit is due at the time of registration to hold a space in the workshop. The balance is due November 3rd, 2024.
Please note, if you pay your deposit with a credit card, any balance due will automatically be charged to the same card thirty days before the start of class unless you have already paid the tuition in full or let us know that you wish to use a different payment method.
Three ways to Register:
• Online - Use form below
• Call our office to pay with your Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover card
• You can also pay through PayPal. Our account is forum@tellingtontraining.com.
Cancellation Policy: Tellington TTouch Training reserves the right to cancel a session if necessary because of circumstances beyond our control or when enrollment is deemed insufficient. In this case, all payments you have made will be refunded – whether deposit only or the full tuition amount.
Participant Cancellation Policy: For cancellations made more than 30 days in advance of the training, a refund will be given minus a $100 administrative fee. No refunds are given for cancellations made less than 30 days prior to the start of the training, but you may apply this money to another training that must be attended within one year of your cancellation date.
Animals attending the Training: At this class you will work with the horses from Hoku Lio Stables.
Meals: Meals are not included in the tuition. Please bring your own lunch and snacks. Water, coffee, and tea are provided. There is a one-hour break each day for lunch.
Traveling to the class:
Airport: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for your trip.
Accommodations:
Please contact Karin O’Mahony if you like accommodations close to the venue
808-224-7296 hokuliohawaii@gmail.com
Additional information: The daytime temperatures are comfortably warm, averaging in the high 70s and low 80s. Evenings are slightly colder and dip into the 60s, especially along the beaches.
Equipment:
TTouch Wand, a 4 ft white dressage whip.
TTouch Zephyr lead.
The wand and lead are essential items for a Tellington TTouch training. If you have them, bring them with you. If you do not have a wand and lead, they will be available for sale at the clinic.
If you have any other TTouch equipment, i.e., TTouch driving lines, Balance Rein, Lindell or ace bandages, it would be very helpful to have them on hand.
Please be sure your items are well marked for easy identification.
Equipment, videos and books will be available for purchase.
Recommended Reading:
Before attending the training, we suggest you read Linda's book, The Training and Retraining Horses the Tellington Way Book. This book may be purchased through our Online Store on our web site: www.ttouch.com or call 866-488-6824 to place your order.
Application Form and Further Information:
Download the logistics here.
Events > Past Events Archive
Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch for Dogs: Intro
$129.99 – $179.99
Join Jyl Hershman- Ross (Tellington TTouch Senior Practitioner), Friday, November 10 (5-7 pm CT) & and Saturday, November 11 (4-7 pm CT) and learn effective, mindful and positive ways to help successfully introduce a new pet into the home.
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?
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
Our Method for > Dogs > Success Stories
Dog Show
Face, a Reluctant Show Dog
by Practitioner Kathi Lehman.
Face, a longhair standard Dachshund, came to TTouch® as a Champion show dog. Vicki and Bruce Walsh were Face's owners and breeders. The Walshes have bred and shown dogs for thirty years. They had tried all the normal show dog training and socialization with Face, but while he was champion, he had developed bad behavior patterns.
Face had managed to finish his championship, but he was afraid of everything. He is an exquisite dog, but he is very nervous. At times, Face would totally loose it in the ring, and it would be everything Bruce could do just to hang on to him. He was very afraid of loud noises and would go into freeze at times. Face did not ever eat very well and was a very poor traveler. If Face had a "good" day and managed to win, he would totally refuse to walk on to the winners' platform to receive his award or have his photo taken.
Bruce brought Face to me ready to give up on Face as a show dog. My assessment was that Face was very tight in his stomach area and generally not very present. Face was very sweet but did not make any kind of contact really with anyone.
I used a body wrap and a Halti on him. When Face had his TTouch® "clothes" on we just walked around for about three minutes. Many performance dogs have been over stimulated by their dog jobs and sometimes very short easy sessions are the way to begin a breakthrough with them. I also did a short basic session of Clouded Leopard TTouches and mouth work. I used a pressure of about a three with the TTouches. His tail was limp, so I did some gentle tail-work as well. Then we took a break of about an hour.
We let Face wander around mv place, visit with other dogs and wear his body wrap in this very relaxed situation. He wore his body wrap for about 15 minutes. He then had about an hour to relax and process his first session.
I then put the Halti back on and the body wrap back on and gave Face some food treats. We very slowly did the labyrinth. At first, Face was very nervous, and I used a wand to coax him along with me. We then put him into the Homing Pigeon and lie was a bit more confident with Bruce as the leader. When we added the platform, Bruce commented that Face would never go up on that. Using the Homing Pigeon, wands and bits of food treats, we managed to get Face to climb up on the platform. I then did another ten-minute session of bodywork and Face went home.
Bruce brought Face back the next weekend and we began with the same light bodywork. Face was still very tense in his body with his gut area really feeling like a knot. Face had a much easier time with the confidence course this time. We added his stepping over a couple of low poles. These low poles are made by cutting swimming pool noodles in half. At first, stepping over something was very hard for Face, but he managed. My hope was that by asking him to pick up his feet tjat he would become more aware of his feet and his body.
Face went to a dog show the next weekend. He did better. Bruce felt he was calmer and more responsive. He won and he was willing to walk up the little ramp and take his ribbons. Bruce was also able to get a photo of Face standing on the little platform and that was another first.
The Walshes live two hours from me. They wanted Face to have more TTouch sessions, but the drive was a bit much. I offered to take Face for a week of TTouch camp. I repeated the sessions as described above. I added an evening session of slow gentle bodywork including Raccoon TTouch and lots of TTouch mouth-work. It took four sessions before Face seemed to have a real relaxation response. I did not really think any true progress had been made, but he was a nice dog and I had enjoyed working with him.
Face went home. The first call I got was asking me what I had done to make him eat. The Walshes had not mentioned the issue with Face eating, so not only had I not done anything, but also, I didn't even know it was an issue! I had just fed him, but I had done a bit of TTouch on him prior to each meal because I was trying to maximize our week.
The next week, Face went to the dog show. He did very well. He was more relaxed than ever. He even ate little treats called bait in the ring.
The Walshes asked me to work on Face at a dog show. I did a couple of sessions on Face at nearby dog shows. These sessions included some bodywork prior to his being groomed for the ring. I did note that his tail did not feel as disconnected anymore. Hoever, his stomach area was still tense so I did Abalone TTouches on that area with a very slow lift at the end.
I went to ringside and used the lines on the floor to make a little labyrinth. Prior to asking Face to walk forward in our invisible labyrinth, I did a few circles on his rump above his tail. Then as we started out, I did a little flicking TTouch like the horse-leading position and Dingo to encourage him move out and use his rear legs. This warm-up seemed to work quite well. In the ring, Bruce would do light mouth-work on the outside of Face's lips prior to the judge examining Face.
Face has gone on to learn to enjoy his job as a show dog. He now lives with a very nice handler, Loreen Hogan. Loren keeps Face as a house dog when he is not at the shows and they have bonded very well. I taught Loreen some TTouches and she has continued his sessions. Face became the number one ranked Longhair Standard Dachshund for 1999.
Our Method for > Horses > Attend a workshop > Read More
One Horse - One Human at a Time
When we attend a TTouch training we arrive with excitement and wonder. The common bond that all of us share and the one that attracts us to Linda’s work, is that we each believe, in our own way, that there must be a better way to be with horses, other animals, the people in our lives and with the world in general.
The knowledge learned from the Tellington TTouch Method for Horses work is accumulative. In the beginning, it seems simple and easy. As we continue year after year to learnmore of Linda’s shared skills, from clinics, workshops, CD’s, and her books, we begin to see a complete metamorphosis in our approach to riding, training and in many ways, to our interactions with other people as well. At a time of such great need for balance in the world and in our personal lives, by becoming TTouch trained, we become part of the change.
Linda’s life philosophy is woven like a rich quilt and openly shared at her clinics. During the daily lunch break she shares ideas about thought provoking books and theories that open all of the participants to see that we all have unlimited potential. For most of us, there is a recognition that horses can be our teachers.
At Linda’s five-day clinics, many of us notice a personality pattern expressing itself as we work with our horses—our horses mirror this pattern back to us, many times it appears to be the root of the problem that we seem to be having with our horses, and yet it is a problem that we have in other aspects of our lives, too. The horses keep giving us an opportunity to not only get it right, but to get it better. At a recent workshop, there was a horse that was very pushy with its person. As the days went on, the person revealed how primary people in her life did not treat her with respect either. As she learned techniques to express her boundaries to her horse, she also had an awareness of different ways of being with humans in her daily life.
The work that Linda teaches at her clinics is far beyond horse training. Linda shares with her students the richness of her life journey with humans and with animals that she has finely tuned over the past fifty years. A woman always ahead of her time, she gently and humbly shares her knowledge with everyone present. The attendees at her horse clinics are of varied backgrounds from trainers, competitors, therapists, medical professionals, NARHA instructors, backyard horse owners and anyone with a desire to share with a horse in a more compassionate way. Whatever a person’s knowledge base is, Linda has a way of speaking and sharing examples directly so that they are easily understood and absorbed.
The variety of touches, leading positions, special riding equipment and connected riding techniques offer everyone something new and thought provoking to encourage and stretch skills, from professional trainer to horse lover. A questionnaire was sent to participants from a recent clinic. Christal Bannister, a massage therapist, answered, “I learned to touch a horse (and people) in a new way. I learned how to be soft and effective with the touches. I learned also how to be direct, observe and to give clear signals.”
The TTouch method offers us possibilities of dealing with our horses in an entirely different way. The depth of Linda’s work supports humans in continuing to unravel the myth of domination and ignorance in our relationship with our equine partners. When attending a five-day workshop, it is truly joyful to see horses and humans develop new ways of interacting together. In western civilization where horse ownership, racing, showing and winning have guided most peoples training background, it is so refreshing and important that we now have a choice.
Because of work like Linda’s Tellington TTouch Method, we have an opportunity to see, to learn, to try and to succeed in improving the lives of our horses and at the same time improving our lives as we see that compassion, listening, honoring and thought out techniques are available to everyone. An attendee at a recent clinic, Kathleen Aspenns wrote, “I really like seeing Linda work with challenging horses---to see what to do when they don’t like the first ten things you try---keep trying something different. Linda’s work in heartfelt—I absolutely love her respect for and her communication with the horses. It inspires me to be a more compassionate person.”
Linda and all the Instructors, support each student and help all of them to embark on their own journey filled with all of the skills that she can possibly share. TTouch work is not only about changing the way we deal with horses, it is about changing the way we see, hear, listen and deal with our lives . . . changing the way we are with each other, one horse, one person at a time.
Our Method for > Other Animals > Success Stories
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
This book chronicles the distinguished early equestrian career of Linda Tellington-Jones.
Rehabilitation of Horses - Booklet
Useful techniques to help your horse recover from neurological deficits including EPM.
Shop > Horses > Equipment
Balance Rein - Woven
Good for horses who are above the bit, behind the vertical or strung-out. New lower price!
Worldwide > Animal Ambassadors International
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.
