I have long advocated massage as part of the bonding process between a dog and their human. So when I wanted to find even more information on this subject I looked into Tellington Touch Massage and read the book “The Tellington TTouch: Caring for Animals with Heart and Hands” by Linda Tellington-Jones and Sybil Taylor.
Tellington-Jones does not truly consider TTouch to be massage, but simply a non habitual movement of the skin that “awakens” the body on a cellular level, in order for it to heal itself.
TTouch is a gentle technique involving circular movements as well as long slow “licks” (with the hand not the tongue!) and even incorporates some kneading style movements of the hands and fingers. It isn’t deep tissue massage and I can’t imagine it causing any harm even if applied “wrong”. This means that it is a perfect technique for my clients and their pets!
I grew up in a very spiritual family (although not particularly religious) and I am also at my core a scientist who needs proof before really “buying in” to any idea I am presented with. So I feel my understanding and acceptance of techniques that use visualization or energy work is well tempered by my insistence that there also be some serious critical thinking involved before I advocate any idea or theory.
On that note, I don’t think you need to be particularly spiritual or energy focused when applying the TTouch method. I just think you need to want to have a better understanding of your dog and giving him physical attention that feels good, and allows you both to be comfortable touching his entire body is going to be a VERY good thing! It means you will notice where he is sore, sensitive, and even his favorite spots to be touched.
TTouch also works very will in conjunction with mat exercises for relaxation. Mat exercises are very useful for dogs who have high arousal and a hard time calming themselves down. Many of my clients are getting little introductions to TTouch with mat work!
For further details on the TTouch method, there are many books and dvd’s out there, I highly recommend them so you can see how easy the technique really is.
