Helping Dogs Thrive: Tellington TTouch® and Other Life-Enhancing Techniques with Lori Stevens

This workshop will introduce you to force-free, humane, and gentle techniques for improving the life of your dog. You will be introduced to TTouch® bodywork, movement, and leash-handling techniques. You will also learn how to recognize when your dog is stressed or fearful and what to do about it. And you'll learn about how your own body posture and movement patterns can affect your dog’s behavior. TTouch is a method of working with animals that was developed by animal expert Linda Tellington-Jones as a result of her experience as a Feldenkrais practitioner. As an experienced horsewoman she realized that some of the Feldenkrais rehabilitation exercises linking body and mind that were used with people could be used to help animals as well. She found that an animal's posture influences its behavior and that physical, mental, and emotional balance are inextricably linked. TTouch is a holistic approach, which includes the following: Bodywork which is gentle and non-invasive Equipment and techniques which bring awareness and changes to animals Movement or ground work which builds confidence and improves focus Philosophy which is one of respect for animals The combination of TTouch movement exercises and bodywork improves concentration, coordination, behavior, and athletic ability in many animals. TTouch is used widely around the world by trainers, pet owners, and veterinarians. Other topics in this workshop include: canine body language, observation skills, analyzing behavior, enrichment, fear and stress, and hind-end targeting. We will also discuss the importance of building a trusting relationship and what that involves. This workshop will provide you tools and techniques to help with the following issues: Fear and stress Inability to focus Lack of confidence Over-activity (unable to easily be calm) Touch sensitivity Lack of body awareness, especially hind-end awareness Pulling on lead Behavior issues You will learn how to do the following: Utilize TTouch bodywork Incorporate TTouch wrap Recognize signs of stress Build skills in a fearful dog Re-think your relationship and how to build on what you currently have Approach behavior challenges Hind-end targeting Apply movement exercises Walk in balance with your dog Assess harness fit