Animal Centred Education 

Animal Centred Education (ACE) is an integrated approach to animal wellbeing and education. It incorporates methods that were developed by Sarah Fisher at Tilley Farm such as ACE Free Work, Sarah’s passion for detailed observations and building calm foundations on which further learning can be established. ACE also includes techniques inspired by animals and other professionals working in the world of animal education and welfare.

How it all began

Ground work on the lead for dogs was a novel concept when TTouch Training for Companion Animals was first developed. It has many benefits and can highlight postural difficulties as well as offering ways to modify a variety of behaviours, and improve gait and balance.

The wide variety of textures/surfaces used today were not originally part of TTouch groundwork. Different surfaces and a range of other sensory items were inspired by the dogs at Battersea almost two decades ago as many did not enjoy body contact. Allowing dogs to engage with a variety of textures has been life enhancing, and life-saving, for dogs that were concerned by contact from the human hand.

We are always looking for ways to simplify every learning opportunity here at Tilley Farm. Thanks to a young, bright Bull Breed blend named Henry who now lives at the farm, Free Work has become a structured method of educating and supporting dogs (and other animals) of all ages providing a safe and rewarding foundation on which further learning can be built.

Although many TTouch Practitioners include the first steps of Free Work within their TTouch sessions, Free Work and detailed observations are not considered to be part of TTouch; hence the creation of Animal Centred Education in October 2018.

Whilst every event is a chance to gain ACE credits, you do not have to work towards certification in order to attend an ACE event. The majority of workshops are open to anyone who would simply like to learn rewarding techniques for the benefit of their canine friends.