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Horse 1999 EPM. Neurological Study

Tellington TTouch^® as a Complement in the Rehabilitation of Horses with EPM and Neurological Deficits

The manual has been given to several veterinarians for the use of their clients and has been found very effective. Additional study and documentation required.

A study of the rehabilitation of horses with neurological deficits, using TTEAM, started through the efforts of Dr. Mark Meddleton and his wife, Becky. Becky's horse, Jewel, was severely affected by Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) and Dr. Mark was trying all the forms of experimental medication. During the times that the medication seemed to be working, Becky decided to try TTEAM to rehabilitate Jewel. Becky applied her basic knowledge of TTEAM and was impressed by what she was observing with Jewel.

Becky and Mark came to a TTEAM workshop at Galisteo Creek Farms in April, 1999 to learn more and to talk with Linda to see if TTEAM would cooperate in a study of rehabilitating horses with EPM. Becky explained to the group that initially she had thought that only the ground exercises would help, but after talking with TTEAM Instructor Carol A. Lang, she tried the TTouch and realized it too was a key element.

To initiate the study, Linda and Carol met with Dr. Mark and Becky at a client's farm. A neurological exam was performed by Dr. Mark on three horses. TTEAM techniques were shown the horse's owner and Dr. Mark set up a basic schedule of rehabilitation with instructions the owner was to follow. In a few weeks, Carol met with Dr. Mark and Becky at this client's farm. Dr. Mark reexamined the horses and both he and the owner agreed that improvement had been made. Carol taught the owner more TTEAM techniques and Dr. Mark scheduled another evaluation of the horses.

In June of 1999, Dr. Mark, Becky and Carol worked with Jewel and Mark's horse, Dugan, who also had been diagnosed with EPM. Dr. Mark did a neurological exam of each horse. Then, as they did TTEAM and TTouch^® with both horses, Dr. Mark, Becky and Carol discussed which techniques were working, the timing of the sessions, the sequence of TTouch^® and the work in the TTEAM Confidence Course. They also made a first draft of a checklist for the owners to keep track of their horses rehabilitation program.

Carol accompanied Dr. Mark and Becky on visits to at least three clients who had horses with neurological difficulties. Each owner was shown TTEAM techniques and Becky recommended the rehabilitative process. Dr. Mark's scheduled follow-up neurological checks in order to track progress. Becky reported that the percentage of improvement of the trial horses was very high and that the owners were very satisfied with the results.

To continue the development of a protocol that Dr. Mark planned to present to the AVMA, Carol met with Dr. Mark and Becky and TTEAM Practitioner, Kirsten Henry several times over the next year. They filmed a video demonstrating how to do TTEAM techniques specifically for rehabilitation of horses with neurological deficits and developed a modified Confidence Course.

They did many trials with TTEAM techniques, in particular the use of wand and lead, the TTEAM body wrap and TTouches.

Carol prepared a booklet of TTEAM techniques to be distributed to participants of the study. Dr. Meddleton reviewed this booklet and made suggestions from his perspective as a veterinarian.

Hoping to receive a grant, Dr. Mark presented this protocol to a veterinary conference in the fall of 2000. The evaluation and advice offered about their study gave Dr. Mark and Becky new insights and direction. However, Dr. Mark's veterinarian practice was expanding so much that their time for continuing this study was curtailed.

In March, 2002 Dr. Mark reported to Carol that he could not proceed with the study of a protocol for EPM/neurologically impaired horses. He offered to share his and Becky's work with any veterinarian that Linda might find who would be interested in continuing.

We know that TTEAM has been very effective in helping horses rehabilitate from neurological deficits. We offer this booklet as a guide to TTEAM Practitioners and others who will use TTEAM and TTouch to facilitate their horses' rehabilitation.

Carol A, Lang, TTouch Instructor
Santa Fe, New Mexico

Purchase the Booklet in our Shop.

NOTE: TTEAM is an acronym of "Tellington TTouch^® Equine Awareness Method." Since this article was written, the brand name for all the facets of the TTouch^® organization is Tellington TTouch®.

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

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch for Dogs

course content

– Are you a dog lover?

– DO you want to develop positive, effective, techniques to enhance relaxation and support well-being?

– 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?

– Are you a Canine Body worker or wellness professional looking to add integrative techniques to your skills?

Join Robyn Hood (Senior Tellington TTouch Instructor), virtually, and learn trust-based, gentle, effective and supportive techniques from the comfort of home. This includes 10 hours of live, virtual, group instruction and life-time access to a self-paced online study course.

The Tellington TTouch Method is a gentle, hands-on approach that improves well-being, behaviour, cooperation and the relationship people have with animals. It includes the use of a specialized form of bodywork, specific types of equipment and creative movement exercises that are easy to learn and used with all types of animals.

Most importantly, the Tellington TTouch Method facilitates trust and enhanced communication between humans and animals. TTouch can be integrated into daily life to increase confidence, reduce stress, improve focus and enhance well-being, making TTouch perfect for busy people!

These techniques are easy to learn and provide many solutions to common concerns by recognizing each animal and person as unique individuals. Rather than a set protocol for particular issues, the Tellington TTouch Method offers creative solutions customized to each situation.

This module encompasses the “Bodywork” component of the Tellington TTouch Method, one part of the whole. This introductory module is a wonderful addition to anyone interested in canine bodywork, enhancing their relationship with their animals, those who practice canine massage, or dog guardians with senior animals looking to help enhance well-being and function.

Not sure what the time will be where you are? Check it out on our Time Zone Converter.

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 with techniques to reduce anxiety and enhance self-confidence

➔ Utilize simple TTouch Body Wrap techniques in appropriate situations

➔ 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: Bodywork Module” for solid foundation of knowledge and accessible review opportunities.

Supportive Study Group Access

Recorded sessions for review.

Online Course with 24/7, lifetime access.

*This course counts as 8 Academy credits towards becoming a Certified Tellington TTouch Practitioner. No prior experience with the Tellington TTouch is required.

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.

The class is small and allows for individualized advice and attention.

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

Online Course Outline:

➡️ Welcome to the Course

➡️ About the Method

Goals & Overview
Components

➡️ Attitude & Philosophy

Core Principles
Staying Grounded
The Power of Pause

➡️ Observation & Awareness

What to Look For
The 5 Fs
How to Observe

➡️ The Sensory Side of TTouch: How TTouch Affects the Nervous System

➡️ Basics of Bodywork

Understanding & Refining the TTouches
TTouch Techniques: Part 1
TTouch Techniques: Part 2
TTouch Techniques: Part 3
TTouch Techniques: Part 4
TTouch Techniques: Extremities

➡️ All Wrapped Up: TTouch Body Wraps

Quarter & Half Wraps
Head Wraps

➡️ The Next Steps

ttouch.ca

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: Anxious Dogs – Understanding and Managing Anxiety

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

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

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

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

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

Course Outline:

What is anxiety.

Canine Communication.

Safe dog handling.

Working with the over-aroused anxious dog.

Working with the catatonic or shy dog.

What can we add to enhance our work.

What you will learn!

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

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

Course Instructor:

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

Diploma in Canine Behaviour (ISCP Dip.Canine.Prac.)
Tellington TTouch Instructor
Real Dog Yoga Instructor
Full Member of INTODogs
Full Member of the International Companion Animal Network (ICAN)
Senior Instructor for Dog Training College
Author
Over three decades of experience working with animals

ttouch.ca

Hands On - Tellington TTouch® for Horses

Are you seeking news way of understanding or working with horses?

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?

Discover how the Tellington TTouch Method will improve performance, well-being, and behavior while enhancing the relationship with your horse on the ground and in the saddle.

This intensive hands-on course will give the tools of observation, bodywork, groundwork, and an introduction to riding concepts that will help you understand and communicate with every horse you work with.

In addition to Tellington TTouch principles we will be exploring the use of Wendy Murdoch’s “Surefoot Equine Stability Program” with a variety of Surefoot Pads and touch on Peggy Cummings’ Connected Riding concepts for body-awareness exercises that can be taken into everyday life, in and out of the saddle.

Enjoy the positive, fun filled learning environment that helps you understand and connect with horses in an all encompassing, whole, way. This workshop can serve as an introduction to the Tellington TTouch Method for Horses or as a way to build and refine the skills of more experienced students.

Choose from 2 different course options:

3 day introductory option for students new to the work and looking to add some tools to their everyday handling

5 day intensive option for students looking to deepen their understanding and refine their skills. The 2 extra days can be tailored to individual interests and learning needs.

Can count to credit for Tellington TTouch Practitioner credits suitable for new and returning students

Tuition (2 Options)

3-Day: $755 plus 5% GST (8 credits)

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

5-Day: $1175 plus 5% GST (12 credits)

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

Included in tuition is access to our Online Course – “Tellington TTouch for Horses – An Introduction”. $49.94 USD VALUE

Snacks, lunches and refreshments are included.

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

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.

Learn more about the Facility and Accommodations.

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

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.

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® 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.

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

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

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

Date: April 9, 2025
$167.97 approximately the equivalent to £125 GBP

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.

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!

View Details and Register

Interactive & Online: Anxious Dogs – Understanding and Managing Anxiety

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

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

Course Outline:

What is anxiety.

Canine Communication.

Safe dog handling.

Working with the over-aroused anxious dog.

Working with the catatonic or shy dog.

What can we add to enhance our work.

What you will learn!

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

Course Instructor:

Diploma in Canine Behaviour (ISCP Dip.Canine.Prac.)
Tellington TTouch Instructor
Real Dog Yoga Instructor
Full Member of INTODogs
Full Member of the International Companion Animal Network (ICAN)
Senior Instructor for Dog Training College
Author
Over three decades of experience working with animals

ttouch.ca

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch® for Horses

course content

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

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

This course is the ideal option for anyone seeking an integrative and compassionate approach to horse training and management. Whether you are a professional horse trainer or dedicated horse lover, this course 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.

The Tellington TTouch for Horses: Immersion Series can serve as your core curriculum for Tellington TTouch Online Academy Certification credits however it is also a fantastic learning opportunity for those wanting to add to what they already do well or expand their knowledge and skill set.

Register and gain access to an extensive, clearly laid out and detailed online course covering the material you would learn in at least two, 5 day hands on sessions. This course can be done at YOUR OWN PACE, before or after the LIVE sessions.

Beginning in March enjoy, the first of twelve, 3 hour immersion session that will leave you inspired, empowered and excited to learn and practice.

Between sessions you will work on specific skills and assignments, if you are working towards Certification. Sessions are recorded for future viewing or should you have to miss a live class. Each session will be taught by Robyn or another one of our wonderful TTouch Instructors.

Enjoy the comforts of home, with your animal at ease, in this small, intimate group setting. Robyn will help coach you through specific concerns you may have and give you the tools to enhance your horse’s well being, behavior and performance.

This course can count towards the Tellington TTouch Practitioner certification program for horses. It is also suitable for riders and horse enthusiasts who are interested in the method to enhance their relationship and address a myriad of challenges without force or dominance. All levels of experience and areas of interest are welcome.

Students will have access to online material to cover at their own pace. The online portion of learning consists of a logical, linear, “Tellington TTouch for Horsess – Core Curriuculum”, which can be accessed at any time.

The online portion of the course includes:

The FULL Tellington TTouch for Horses Core Curriculum Course: Each consisting of several specific topics and lessons.
Hours “how-to” videos and lectures about each specific concept and exercise
Lesson video assignments, to be completed by those pursuing certification
24/7 access to all materials

The LIVE interactive portion of the course includes:

TWELVE 3 hour sessions of learning in an intimate, supportive, group setting over the span of 6 months
Class recordings for future viewing & review
Access to an interactive group chat and discussion page.
Expert feedback about your own animals
In class assistants co-teaching and supporting the group’s learning and questions.

Payment plan available, please email ttouch@shaw.ca for information.

ttouch.ca

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch® for Dogs

course content

Join Tellington TTouch Method Instructor, Robyn Hood, as well as other guest instructors, and develop a deep level of understanding and skill that will transform how you handle and train dogs.

This course is the ideal option for anyone seeking an integrative and compassionate approach to understanding, handling and training dogs. Whether you are a professional dog trainer or dedicated dog guardian, this course will provide you with an incredible framework of philosophical understanding, observational skills, bodywork techniques, leash work exercises and innovative tools that can make what you already do well, be even better.

The Tellington TTouch for Dogs: Immersion Series can serve as your core curriculum for Tellington TTouch Online Academy Certification credits but is also a fantastic learning opportunity for those wanting to add to what they already do well or expand their knowledge and skill set in canine wellness and management.

Beginning in February enjoy, the first of twelve, 3 hour immersion session that will leave you inspired, empowered and excited to

This course can count towards the Tellington TTouch Practitioner certification program for dogs. It is also suitable for dog guardians who are interested in the method to enhance their relationship. All levels of experience and areas of interest are welcome.

Students will have access to online material to cover at their own pace. The online portion of learning consists of a logical, linear, “Tellington TTouch for Dogs – Level 2”, which can be accessed at any time.

The online portion of the course includes:

The FULL Tellington TTouch for Dogs Practitioner Course: Each consisting of several specific topics.
Hours “how-to” videos and lectures about each specific concept and exercise
Study Quiz Questions at the end of each section for your own learning
Lesson video assignments, to be completed by those pursuing certification
24/7 access to all materials

The LIVE interactive portion of the course includes:

TWELVE 3 hour sessions of learning in an intimate, supportive, group setting over the span of 6 months
Class recordings for future viewing & review
Access to an interactive group chat and discussion page.
Expert feedback about your own animals
In class assistants co-teaching and supporting the group’s learning and questions.

Payment plan available, please email ttouch@shaw.ca for information.

ttouch.ca

Unlock Your Horse’s Potential

8 Saturdays
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

March 21, 2026:
11:00 AM–1:00 PM Pacific (PST)
12:00–2:00 PM Mountain (MST)
1:00–3:00 PM Central (CST)
6:00–8:00 PM UK (GMT)
7:00–9:00 PM Central European Time (CET)
5:00-7:00 AM AEDT (Sunday March 22, 2026)

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: March 21 • April 4 • April 18 • May 2 • May 16 • May 30 • June 13 • June 27, 2026
All classes will be recorded, giving you the flexibility to watch them any time after each session throughout 2026.

$899

Interactive & Online: Anxious Dogs – Understanding and Managing Anxiety

Applied Ttouch for Dogs with Toni Shelbourne

Dates: Saturdays – February 1st & 22nd, 2025

Time: 16:00 – 18:00 GMT/ 11:00 – 13:00 EST – via Interactive Zoom Sessions (recorded for repeated viewing)

Cost: $179.99

Included Content: Easy to follow, 6 lesson self-paced course! Includes many hours of video lectures and how-to video demonstrations.

Academy Credits: 4

Beginning on February 1st, join Tellington TTouch Instructor, Animal Behaviourist and Author, Toni Shelbourne as she helps you unlock the keys to understanding and supporting your anxious dog.

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

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

Full Details and Registration

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

Interactive & Online Tellington TTouch® for Horses: Intro

$279.00
September 23rd and 30th, October 7th & 14th
Live Interactive Sessions with Tina Constance

Join Tellington TTouch Instructor Tina Constance, and learn this amazing approach from the comfort of home. Enjoy the logical, linear, learning of Online Learning along with the inspiring and adaptive format of LIVE Zoom sessions.

Learn the innovative and empowering techniques and exercises that will take your relationship with your horse, to an all new level and transform the way you train horses and understand them. Whether you want guidance for improving performance, behavior, or are simply curious for a new perspective, Lindy will give you countless ways to understand, interact and influence your horse in the most wonderful ways.

Register and gain access to an extensive, clearly laid out and detailed online course covering the material you would learn in a 3 day hands-on training. This course can be done at YOUR OWN PACE, before or after the LIVE sessions.

Beginning on September 23rd; join Tina for your first interactive Zoom session. Continue each week and build on what you learn.

All sessions are recorded and sent to participants, in case you cannot make it live.

Between sessions you will take what you have learned and practice it with your own horses. Take video for specific feedback to share in the next class so you can refine and improve your technique.

This course can count as 8 credits towards the Tellington TTouch Horse Practitioner certification program for horses. It is also a wonderful learning experience for ANYONE looking to enhance their life with horses.

The Tellington TTouch Method for horses offers a handling and training approach that encourages optimal performance and well-being. Based on the understanding that behavioural issues are often caused by pain, soreness, fear or tension in the body, TTouch addresses these underlying issues through a combination of Observation, Body Work, specific Ground Exercises, and Riding With Awareness along with an overarching attitude of respect and consideration for the horse.

Schedule:

Saturday September 23rd- 16.00 to 18.30 GMT (8am to 10:30am PST)

Saturday September 30th- 16.00 to 18.30 GMT

Saturday October 7th – 16.00 to 18.30 GMT

Saturday October 14th – 16.00 to 18.30 GMT

Details and Registration

Our Method for > Dogs > Success Stories

IT ACTUALLY WORKS!

Dear Linda Tellington-Jones,

About five years ago I saw the your video. I had just adopted a Miniature American Eskimo "Becky" from a breeder I found in the paper. I didn't know anything about breeders, (or dogs to say the least). Live and learn... I immediately started to use the knowledge shared on the video with Becky. It was amazing how IT ACTUALLY WORKED! I was shocked that this simple touching and breathing method really did work with Becky. Becky's submissive urination stopped, and she actually obeys our vocal commands now.

I liked the video so much I gave it to family and friends that had dog or cat issues that they were having trouble dealing with. Needless to say, the video has been passed on and on, and I haven't seen it since.

I work in a Humane Society facility. TTouch^®works quickly with many of the dogs and cats when I'm showing them to potential adoption families. It is amazing how the dogs and cats respond in their suite with the potential clients looking on! I find myself referring adoption clients, and folks that call with pet behavior issues, to the Tellington TTouch^® website. I have been visiting the site myself to see what help is out there for people and their pets.
– Chuck Mather

Our Method for > Horses > Attend a workshop > Read More

The Touch That Teaches

In the 1980s, Equus Magazine dubbed Tellington TTouch® Training "The Touch That Teaches" and said participants will learn how to see and embrace their horse as an individual and through observation, patience and TTouch®, find the best ways to assist it in its training.

The second T in TTouch stands for "Trust" and building trust is what we aim for since it is the foundation on which everything else rests. With trust, horses learn to achieve enhanced levels of physical, mental and emotional balance.

Who Should Attend?

Professionals of every level and from all disciplines, as well as amateurs, can benefit from learning a training philosophy and methodology devoted to working with horses using empathy instead of force - down to the cellular level. Linda's approach focuses on working with horses' minds and intelligence as much as with their body. The same is true of her work with riders.

Why Should You Attend?

To improve your horse's rideability and performance without stress using holistic and humane groundwork, bodywork and ridden work from the Tellington Method and Tellington TTouch® Training.
To create a long term training program that will help you develop a horse that is confident, willing, mentally and physically healthy, and capable of meeting your training goals regardless of discipline.
To enhance, repair or deepen your relationship with your horse through the Tellington twin philosophies of "Change Your Mind & You Can Change Your Horse" and "Change the Posture and Change the Behavior."

What Will You Learn?

Participants will learn how to identify, soothe and resolve discomfort in horses' bodies using TTouch. With the Tellington special ground exercises called the Playground for Higher Learning, they will learn how to help horses develop better patience, balance and suppleness as well as increase their confidence and self-reliance. They will find out why, when and how to enhance their horse's performance under saddle with the Promise Wrap, Liberty Ring, Balance Rein and Lindell, and why, when and how to ride bridleless and more.
On day one, participating horses and riders will be assessed under saddle to determine which of the TTouches, the Playground for Higher Learning exercises and Tellington riding equipment can be helpful.
Over the next two days Linda will teach specific TTouches and Tellington techniques appropriate to each horse's situation.
Participants will be broken into small groups and will practice with the horses under Linda's close supervision and with the help of her experienced team of instructors.
Participants will also experience TTouch and the Promise Wraps for themselves. Linda will share the importance of heart coherence and breath work in achieving internal balance and a closer partnership with horses in and out of the saddle.

What Will You Take Away?

Susan Gibson, publisher of Trail Blazer Magazine, reported that she left Linda's training with the "ability to see her horse with new eyes." Cristiane Pravaz from Quebec wrote after attending the Tellington Training in Hawaii; "I tried the Balance Rein with Comrade today for the first time, and I received my first half walk and a lighter trot than ever before, and when we were finished with the session, Comrade moved his head near mine and with his lips, he touched my nose and just turned like you would do to somebody to let her know that you like her and the way she rode this afternoon!!!"

Our hope and the purpose of this training is that participants will take home a different awareness of themselves and new ways to assist their horses.

Our Method for > Horses > Success Stories

Older horses

"The TTEAM Newsletter is my “life line” to keep in touch with all the stuff you people get up to. Every now and again there is a surge of interest here in New Zealand, but for me it just keeps on getting better and better. Results mostly happen in minutes for me now, and people are amazed.

"I am always getting asked when I am going to compete my horse even though people cannot believe his age is 24 years old. Tellington Method had done so much for him. He had an accident 12 years ago that left him quite crippled and without the Tellington TTouch method, he would not be with me. He has taught me so much and given me some amazing experiences and may lovely rides.

"Thank you for sharing TTouch with me and many other people too. Animals, worldwide, love what the Tellington TTouch Method brings to them. And never let us forget the great job Robyn has done for so long bringing the written word to all of us TTouch people."

– Coral Boulton in New Zealand

"After seeing Instructor, Edie Jane Eaton’s demonstration, I have been using the Tellington TTouch exercises for two weeks and my l9 year old advanced dressage thoroughbred’s back is definitely more supple. And engagement is becoming elastic. He was stiff, and I have had problems getting him to use his hind-end to engage without getting stiffer in his back. No more!"

– Philippa Morrell in the UK

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."

Shop > Horses > Books

Rehabilitation of Horses - Booklet

Useful techniques to help your horse recover from neurological deficits including EPM.

from $25.00

Worldwide > Animal Ambassadors International

1988 TTEAM Gives Children Opportunities

Further Thoughts and Observations about the Opportunities that TTEAM Offers to School Children

TTEAM News International April, 1988 Vol 8 No 2 Pp. 1-6

When I began offering Animal Ambassadors International^® educational programs in the schools, I had no idea what to expect. I knew that TTEAM was great for animals. Robyn's files burst with case histories of horses and other animals from all over the world that have been helped through TTEAM & TTouch. I also knew that many of these case histories had been submitted by people who had relatively little experience with TTEAM before they were called upon to use their skills on behalf of some animal in trouble. But these people were mature adults; often they were professionals in some field involving animals. The subtleties of TTEAM would not escape them.

It was different with children. I was confident that hands-on experience with live animals would provide motivation and self-esteem, and I hoped it would be a bridge to right-brain learning. But I was totally unprepared for what was to happen.

"Andy would carry the cat around upside down by the tail. I didn't like it, but I didn't know what to do about it. Then this week I noticed a big change in his attitude. He's more considerate. I'm very pleased."

This comment from Andy's father at an elementary school "Parents Night," after I had been doing a TTEAM-Animal Ambassadors International® educational program that had already run four days of a week-long unit, was one of the first hints I had that TTEAM for children is a two-way street. The benefits flow both ways. The feeling for animals that can come with actually doing the TTouch on a live animal opens up doors for some children. They begin to think in a new way that is more responsive and more caring. Many children have this natural ability within themselves, and it is wonderful to see it awakened in a child.

The key is that it happens without fuss, without preaching. The child just has a new awareness, an added element that changes the way in which he perceives the world. In some children, that is going to make a difference, as it did for Andy.

The first educational programs that I was invited to do were with children in Special Educations. As I understand it, these are children who are considered educable, but they do not learn up to their potential. Emotional and/or physical problems may be holding them back. They may be hyperactive and disruptive. Some are gifted, artistic and imaginative, but unresponsive to the left-brain learning approach favored in most schools. Some Special Ed children score high in I.Q. tests and some don't; but they are all lumped together bottom percentile and an enormous amount of effort is expended in trying to solve their problems.

If I'd had a choice, I probably would have chosen to work with mainstream classrooms or children in the Gifted and Talented programs in preference to Special Ed. However, as it turned out, that probably would have been a mistake. Each child in Special Ed is there because he or she has some kind of a problem - a problem that is considered solvable or the child wouldn't be there. So, working with 40 kids, you are going to have at least 40 problems to deal with, each one different. What an incredible laboratory for TTEAM.

Following are some examples. They are not pretentious enough to be called "Case histories" because teachers do not readily disclose a child's background unless something happens, and then they tell you as little as possible, i.e.. "He's hyperactive. He probably didn't get his pill today." The names have been changed in these examples, and anything else that might identify a particular child, as in Andy's case above. But everything else is real.

I would like to begin with an experiment in poetry writing that we did in one class. This came the day after we did an Introduction to TTEAM (with stuffed toy animals) and an imaginative journey throughout animal habitats looking for a special animal that each child could choose to befriend and protect.

Animals are now used as part of the treatment protocol in a growing number of programs, according to Carolyn Reuben, health editor of the "L.A. Weekly." She cites animals as therapy for abused children, delinquents, women in prison and the elderly. For example, animals helped abused children to relax and talk about their fears.

The last thing we were thinking about in our poetry writing class was therapy. I had read a program Mann Lowenfels does to teach creativity to gifted children and thought it would adapt well to our animal program. Simplified from Lowenfels' program, its objective was to enhance creative writing skills by giving children a simple. formula to produce a poem.

We began this lesson by asking the children if any of them had tried the TTEAM circles they had learned yesterday on their pets at home. Most of them had, and a lively discussion ensued as the children reported different reactions of their pets to the circles. The teacher then used this springboard to introduce the concept of "Feelings". She wrote several different feelings on the chalkboard: happiness, sadness, etc. Then we thought of colors, places and actions that were happy, sad, etc. You put them all together with your chosen animal and you had a poem.

And what poems did we get -- from these children who don't usually give?

Afraid is
an orange cat
In a pumpkin patch
Alone.

This is from a child who was, right then, the subject of a bitter custody fight "with many tears." Within a couple days her mother, with whom the child wanted to be, would lose the battle.

Another child from a troubled home wrote:

Mad is
a brown gorilla
Who is furious
On a volcano top.

A third child who was feared in his neighborhood because he carried a tremendous chip on his shoulder. Yet this child comes from a wonderfully supportive family. He wrote:

Happiness is
A gray wolf
In a den
With her puppies.

I think it might have been an eye-opener to some of the teachers that this child could write such a "peaceful" poem. He was showing a new side of his character, but he as also telling that his home life is okay.

Obviously the kids were projecting their own feelings into the animals that they wrote about. It was a safe way to tell us something about themselves. That may be very important for this group.

I believe now that a TTEAM & TTouch lesson, followed by a lesson in creative writing, may help children express themselves. If something is bothering them. They may choose to express their loneliness or rage in a poem. Children who bristle at the idea of writing a poem are sometimes more willing to do so if the poem is on behalf of their chosen animal. Of course, they can also write stories for their animal, as they do after Alexandra Kurland's presentations. It is possible that the animals, imagery and art all tap the right-brain mode, making for a learning approach that can release stress as well as enhance creativity.

"Animals can be some of our best teachers," Alexandra Kurland tells her audience of school children. "Every time I do a live-animal program, I find a new reason to agree with the truth of this statement. The Tellington TTouch circles that the children do open the door."

For example, a horse must be a huge animal from the point of view of a child who may never have touched a horse before. My mare, Starlite, is actually on the small side, less than 15 hands. She is 26 years old, which means that she does not move around very much. She is very pretty, with dark glowing eyes set wide apart, and a white snip and star on her kindly face. Furthermore, she just loves having TTEAM done on her. At home she has been known to "wait in line" for her turn while I'm working on another horse.

When I take her to a school, I load a portable corral on one side of my stock trailer. Starlite goes into the other aide and Lad, a dog rides in the back of the pickup. The corral is to keep the children out rather than the horse in. Some children are fearless and eager to make contact with the horse. The corral helps teachers keep them in line by setting a boundary. It also frees Starlite's head while I am working.

The children enter the corral one at a time to work on the horse. I demonstrate a particular touch, such as Raccoon circles on the ears, first getting the horse to lower her head. Then a child is invited to come into the corral and do the same thing. Most of the children love it. Their eyes are shining and they try so hard to do the TTouch exactly right. I am usually at Starlite's neck, with my arm under her neck, and I can feel her response to the children's TTouch. It is fascinating, because she seems to feel some children's hands much more than others. She will lower her head into my arm in utmost bliss. None of the children has ever frightened her or made her unhappy. It is just that some seem to reach her more.

I think a horse is the most wonderful animal teacher. Maybe it's the size that commands respect. Perhaps it in because TTEAM was originally developed for horses. The good thing is that even if a child is a little bit afraid, using the TTEAM & TTouch the child has something definite to do rather than just pet the horse and thereby, a different type of learning situation is set up. Usually the fear soon vanishes and the child is elated, with a real sense of accomplishment. Starlite feels that she knows she has given the child that good feeling. Merely petting the horse would not get the same results.

Of course, I give the bolder children a little more challenging circles than I do the shy ones. And herein lies a tale.

Bobbie was good looking, disruptive and proud. He began my day making obscene circles on his stuffed toy animal; his next move was to beat on the kids next to him. He flatly refused to do anything I asked of him and spent his time trying to make the other kids laugh -- at my expense if he could. I felt that this was not hatred but a challenge. There is a difference. I learned that Bobbie was usually taught one-on-one (that is, by himself with no other children present) and that it was only on the occasion of my visit that it was thought he might join the others. I wanted to say, "thanks a lot."

Usually with a week-long program I try to bring the horse on the first or second day. But a snowstorm delayed the live animal presentation until Thursday. By Wednesday, Bobbie was intolerable. I went to bed that night having visions of him jumping on Starlite's back, hurtling the corral and riding off into the sunset.

Actually, the next day he was pretty good. He hung on the corral with the other kids (they were allowed to stand on the first rail), raising his hand and shouting "Me" whenever someone was chosen to enter the corral. I had not worked the inside of a horse's mouth in demonstrations before, partly because Starlite doesn't like it that much, but today I did. I played the piano on her tongue. I could bear the deafening silence behind me, no "Me! Me! Me!" for this one. I did hear Bobbie say, "I'm not gonna do that!" I drew the suspense out as long as I dared and then called, "Bobbie!"

To his credit, he walked into the corral without a word. I let him suffer a moment longer and then asked him if he would like to do "Tarantula Pulling A Plow" on Starlite's back. He never said a word, and I have never seen a more focused kid. And boy, did that tarantula pull that plow! Starlite's neck sank happily into the crook of my arm.

The next day the teacher's aide who had been working with Bobbie popped out of the room, eyes wide. "He sat still for an hour! He even did his work!

Of course this was just one day in the life of this child. And we don't know quite why he was affected in this way. For some thing permanent to happen, a much more imaginative, ongoing program would have to be tried. Actually, Marie Luise van der Sode has done a six-month residential program in Europe at a Youth Farm for troubled teenage girls. She reported that some of the girls who were unpopular on account of being aggressive became easier to get along with (and more popular) after learning TTEAM. The work with the animals had taught them an alternative way of being.

Very few children have been too frightened to touch the horse and the dog. Of more than 200 children, I think only four or perhaps five hung back. One boy, Cody (the only boy who showed apprehension), conquered his fear and did very nice circles on both Starlite and Lad.

At the end of the week, the children spoke of their chosen animals in front of their classmates and other classes, and were awarded with Animal Ambassador certificates. Cody decided he couldn't do this. Cody was part of a group of mixed Special Ed and Gifted-and-Talented. The purpose of putting these two groups together was to raise the prestige and self-esteem of the slower group, to make it easier for them to leave their classrooms each day for Special Ed. Another purpose was to teach the advanced kids to share and care.

Cody agreed to let one of the advanced children read his speech for him while he stood next to the other child, holding a picture of his animal. So the advanced child practiced two speeches. Just as everyone got up to leave the room, Cody said, "I think I can do my own."

The teacher asked, "What do the rest of you kids think? Do you think Cody can do it?"

One of the advanced children started a cheer, and every child in the room took it up: "Go, Cody, Go!

Cody did give his speech, and he didn't do it too badly. As we left the other classroom, I told him, "You were brave."

He grinned one of those tooth-gaped eight-year-old grins. "Yeah, but I liked it a whole lot better being brave with the horse."

These speeches that the kids gave when they received their AAI Certificates were an exciting part of the program. One parent made the trip down to the school twice for her son's five-minute program. It was great that she was a devoted mother to do that for her son, and it also gives an indication of how much this program meant to the children. Non-readers started asking for more animal books to read. One gifted boy elected to memorize his speech, when he could have read it. Then others wanted to memorize. Another child (in Special Ed) elected to redo her project the week after I left. So there were just lots of indications that we were motivating these children.

I've found that dogs have different reasons to teach than horses. For example, Lad, Starlite's ambassador, treats each child as an individual. He'll offer a paw to one, try to lick another's face (just one lick per child), touch another's hand with his nose (one touch). Eddie, a smart, aggressive boy, was determined to make Lad shake hands with him. Before I could stop him he reached out and pumped Lad's paw. Immediately the magic left. Lad didn't exactly turn into a pumpkin, but he lost confidence for a little bit. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn myself and to explain to the children that one big part of communicating with animals is to watch and listen for the signals they give you. Of course this can be a step toward learning how to communicate more sensitively with people.

Incidentally, when I began these programs, I felt that learning care and consideration for animals could be a step toward learning care and consideration for other people. A psychologist pointed out that such was not always the case. Some people who relate well to animals do not always relate well to human beings. The animal in this type of situation are a social crutch.

Frank was a child like that. He had a brilliant mind, four pets at home, and he knew more about some kinds of wild animals than I did. He did a super job with the horse. He was wonderful with Lad. But his teacher said that be was verbally abusive to other children, with sexual connotations.

We tried to provide Frank with an alternative way of being by encouraging him to share his tremendous fund of knowledge of animals in the classroom. Understandably, the other children weren't really crazy about Frank, but by the end of the week he was providing other children with information about the animals they had chosen, and starting some interesting discussions. So in this way the animals he loves could be a bridge rather than a crutch.

When you do TTEAM it is like dropping a pebble in a pond. There is a saying that the ripples will eventually be felt on the farthest star. Lad was a dog I borrowed from a mountain man who was not known for his kindness to dogs. Since I have been using Lad for TTEAM work this man's natural kindness has surfaced. He just had never seen dogs as feeling, hurting beings before. They were curs to be yelled at and cowed into submissive obedience. Now he talks to them.

TTEAM is fascinating because you don't know what the results will be or how far they will carry. Its therapeutic value would be somewhat different that the proven stress-reduction that comes from petting an animal. My personal feeling is that TTEAM provides an ideal whole-brain learning situation. You have much more active, focused communication than when patting an animal because you are asking a great deal more of the animal. The animal is more focused because it doesn't know exactly what will come next. Some horses in particular become quite fascinated. They are so involved and politely interested in what you are doing sometimes it is almost comical.

But while you and the animal are focused, you are also very much aware of your surroundings. You have to be aware when working with a horse. An element of personal safety in involved and a sense of where you are in space is a necessity. Thoughts and movements become more precise and clear with experience.

Experiments have suggested that babies learn beat when they are relaxed, happy and alert. I see no reason to believe that animals don't learn the same way, and human beings of whatever age. TTEAM helps to promote this state where learning can happen.

New Program

This spring I am offering a follow-up program directed toward the intentional aspect of Animal Ambassadors International®. This program takes 1-2 hours. Children are introduced to the culture of a foreign country. They write letters about themselves and their pets, or stories about a favorite any species, to be shared with children in the other country.

Regards, Ann Finley

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.

1988 A Phone Call from Moscow

TTEAM News International August, 1988 Vol 8 No 3 Pp. 1-2

An Animal Ambassador^® connection made the front page news in Meridian, Idaho. In the last newsletter I reported that I had sent 30 letters from the school children to whom Ann Finley had taught an Animal Ambassador week-long program. The letters went to Moscow with Nancy Grahame, Assistant Director of the Institute for Soviet/American Relations, to be given to three different groups with whom I have worked in Moscow.

The problem was, however, that no answers to the letters could be sent back to the US before the end of the school year the last week of May. The Idaho children were excited about a connection with the Russians but many of them thought it improbable that they would hear anything back. Whoever would think it possible to have a Russian connection with a small town in Idaho? Ann felt it was important that we got some acknowledgment for the kids before they finished the school year. She was attending the advanced training program in Oregon with us and there were only four days left before the kids finished school for the summer.

I put on my thinking cap and called Andre Orlov in Moscow. Andre is the Russian free-lance journalist who has spent many hours showing me around Moscow and has assisted me so many times by translating for my TTEAM clinics that he often receives calls for help with horse problems when I'm not there although he has no other connection with horses. He is responsible for introducing me to the Club Healthy Family back in 1985 and interpreted for me the first time I conducted an Animal Ambassador program in Gorky Park. Andre also created the TTEAM logo - the flying horse with a hand for a wing.

Well, I called Andre and asked him if he could meet with the Club Healthy Family, or one of his other school clubs, in time to give them the letters from the Idaho school children and have them draft a telex to the American kids assuring them that their letters and drawings had been received and that replies would be waiting for them in September when they returned to school.

Andre said he would go one better. That he would meet with a group of children - tell them about the Animal Ambassador program and give them the letters and then telephone the Idaho class the day before school ended. We only had to set up an agreed upon time for them to receive his phone call. Ann called the Idaho school and we agreed upon 10:30 A.M., which was 8:30 P.M. in Moscow. The Idaho teachers were warned that it could take some time to get through by telephone, particularly since it was the week before the Soviet/American summit meeting with Reagan and Gorbechav in Moscow.

Ann and I were waiting on pins and needles on Thursday morning. Sure enough the call came through, and everyone in the whole school heard a 30 minute conversation with a Russian talking to several of the teachers and kids. The local phone company had wired all the classrooms so the kids could hear the conversation over loudspeakers. The local TV station televised the kids waiting excitedly for 45 minutes since the phone lines between the US and the USSR were so blocked with summit business.

The call was a great success and was reported on the front page of the local paper next to the summit news. It was great for me too, because when Ann started teaching the program in Idaho she felt great about the results of teaching the kids the TTEAM work but couldn't see how the Soviet/American exchange could ever work. It was too much of a dream. I had no idea when this phase would materialize but I just kept trusting that when the time was right it would. The following is a letter which Nancy Grahame brought back with her and translated for us.

To Adam Nimmo 1327 W. Carlton Meridian, Id. 83642

My dear friend Adam,

My came is Anya. I live in Moscow. I was very happy when I received your letter. I don't know English yet, so my papa translated your letter for me. I am very interested to find out about your life. I think that it will be interesting for you to learn about me. I am eight years old. I study in school. I finished second grade and can now read and write, and I am going into the third grade. What grade are you in? Like you, I also love animals very much. We don't have any pets at home yet, but mama and papa promised to buy me a kitten or a puppy. But I would also like to have a parrot. I love to draw, and in the fall will start attending art school. We are part of the "Healthy Family" club. In the winter we swim in an ice hole in the river, but in the summer just in the river. We go to the public steam baths and to the swimming pool.

Write me about yourself. I'll be waiting for your letter.

All the best! Anya

This letter is for me another step in the realization of the Animal Ambassador vision to connect children, and adults, from various countries for a better understanding between us, with the animals as a focal point.

I've had many school teachers, and TTEAM people, wanting to know bow they can teach the Animal Ambassador program in their schools. We're working on a brochure and I intend to eventually make a video. Patience, patience! The Animal Ambassador vision has been unfolding for years and has had its own rhythm since I got the first piece of the puzzle in 1969. It's fascinating to see how the parts manifest.

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.

1986 Awarding the First Animal Ambassadors International Certificates to Russian Ambassadors

TTEAM News International December, 1986 Vol 6 No 5 Pp. 3-5

One of the highlights of my October trip to Moscow was awarding the first Animal Ambassadors certificates. In Moscow a translation to Russian had been prepared so I took 100 blank certificates to have them printed in Russian, but the Club Healthy Family thought it would be nicer to receive them in English. Many of the same children who participated in the very first meeting for Animal Ambassadors International® attended the gathering. I had thought I would give certificates to all the children who had chosen their animals to protect, but the club adults felt they should have to earn them and are making a proposal for me to consider on my next trip.

We did agree, however, that two of the children there had earned them and the first certificate was given to the 10 year old boy who had chosen a type of tiny snail to protect. His sister received the second certificate, and interestingly enough had chosen horses as her animal.

I was so pleased to show the certificates to our American Ambassadors in Moscow, Arthur and Donne Hartman, who have followed the unfolding of the concept since the beginning. Ambassador Hartman was very pleased with the name Animal Ambassadors. He chose the fox as his animal (one of my totems, as those of you who have seen my fox ring know) and Donna Hartman chose the bear.

At the meeting I had with the Club Healthy Family one of the adults, who is a teacher, asked some important philosophical questions about animals. "What should a child do if they find a stray or injured animal on the street?" I was reluctant to give an answer without more thought so I answered that it was a question which needed consideration. On Friday afternoon I taped an answer to be translated for their club.

I find it always best for me to answer from a personal base of experience instead of from the theoretical. I often see stray animals on the streets and have no opportunity to take them with me. To turn away and ignore them would be a way of protecting my feelings of helplessness or sorrow, but I do not think that is a good idea. That kind of reaction tends to harden our hearts. I like to take some minutes of my time and sit and visit with them. It may mean momentary pain, but then that is a part of the path to appreciation of joy.

I have been greatly influenced by the philosophy of The Little Prince who advises that it is much better to have a friend and leave him than to never have experienced that connection. Khahil Gibran's chapter on Sorrow and Joy has influenced the past 25 years of my Life. As I remember it, "The self-same well from which your sorrow flows, will also flow your joy." When I read these words during a very challenging time in my life I was exhilarated. "Come on tears," thought I. "The more sorrow I experience, the deeper this well will some day be filled with joy."

I have not been disappointed. Realizing that an experience that may hold sadness can also nurture appreciation of Joy is a gift worth receiving.

The image of a small dog on a cold night in Tblisi, Georgia in the southern part of the USSR, often finds its way into my mind. I saw her huddled up on a piece of newspaper late one night as I was returning by foot to my hotel. I squatted an the deserted, windy street and visited for a long while, gently working on her ears, talking to her and doing the TTouch over her whole body to strengthen our connection and companionship. I wrestled with the possibility of taking her with me somehow, considered the difficulties of getting her veterinary papers through friends in Moscow and realized it was impossible for me to keep her since I am on the road constantly. I mentally flipped through the names of friends who might be willing to adopt a Russian animal ambassador.

The difficulties finally became too obvious and I resigned myself to simply enjoying our camaraderie. I think of her frequently and send her my love through thought-form. I can be as strong a connection as a physical touch, with practice.

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