Linda Tellington-Jones works on Kea's tail. Kea likes to escape from her yard, but hates to walk on a leash.

Story and photos by Karin Stanton | Hawaii 24/7 Contributing Editor

Dog owners got some hands-on TTouch practice Saturday from the master herself.

Linda Tellington-Jones, an internationally recognized animal expert and Big Island resident, led a four-hour seminar Saturday afternoon in Keauhou to share methods and techniques she developed to improve the relationship between dogs and their people families.

A couple dozen pooches of all sizes tagged along with their owners, like so many furry first aid dummies.

To start with, Nani was happy to be there ...

... but she was not so thrilled with the new leash law.

TTouch – the Tellington TTouch – is a based on circular movements of the fingers and hands all over the body. The intent of TTouch is to awaken cellular intelligence – a little like “turning on the electric lights of the body.”

It helps in the care and training of animals, from cats and dogs to horses and companion animals. It offers a positive approach to training, can improve performance and health, and help solve common behavioral and physical problems.

Using a combination of specific touches, ear strokes, tail tugs, and movement exercises, TTouch helps release tension and increase body awareness. This allows the animal to be handled without fear and makes it easier for them to learn new and more appropriate behaviors.

The Tellington TTouch also can assist with recovery from illness or injury, and ease the effects of aging.

Several people at the seminar said they were amazed at their pet’s response to Tellington-Jones’ touches and planned to continue using the methods at home to help the dogs overcome such behaviors as timidness, barking, licking and pulling on the leash.

The seminar was a fundraiser for the Hawaii Island Humane Society. Tellington-Jones also has a workshop scheduled next weekend.

— Find out more:
www.ttouch.com

'Help, she's touching me!'

'Dude, she's totally touching you!'

Rufus was very relaxed.