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A new supply of Thundershirts has finally arrived! Price is R400. Please note that most of the info below is directly from the Thundershirt supplier and more can be found at www.thundershirt.com. All guarentees & warrenties are only from the Thundershirt company. Tellington TTouch is simple the middleman retailer. However we have used these shirts with great success, which is why we are marketing them! You’ll find how to order on the products page.

THUNDER SHIRTS

How It Works

With its patent-pending design, Thundershirt’s gentle, constant pressure has a dramatic calming effect for most dogs if they are anxious, fearful or over-excited. Based on surveys completed by over two thousand customers, over 80% of dogs show significant improvement in symptoms when using Thundershirt. Thundershirt is already helping tens of thousands of dogs around the world, and is recommended by thousands of veterinarians and dog trainers.

As for WHY Thundershirt’s gentle pressure works to calm a dog, experts such as Dr. Temple Grandin believe that pressure has a calming effect on the nervous system. Using pressure to relieve anxiety has been a common practice for years. For example:

TTouch dog trainers use pressure to address a wide variety of anxieties.
Veterinarians use pressure to relax cattle when they are administering vaccinations.
People with autism use pressure to relieve their persistent anxiety.
Children with certain behavioral problems use pressure shirts and weighted vests to relax and focus.
Parents use swaddling to calm an inconsolable newborn infant.

Until now, there just hasn’t been a well-designed, inexpensive pressure wrap commonly used for dog anxiety. Thundershirt is changing that! Thousands of veterinarians and dog trainers now recommend Thundershirts for their anxiety cases.

How To Use Thundershirt

Thundershirt is an excellent treatment for most types of dog anxiety and fear issues. For many anxieties, we recommend just putting on a Thundershirt and observing the results (No training!). You very well may see significant improvement for noise, crate, travel, barking and others with absolutely no training. For more complicated anxiety cases, we recommend using Thundershirt as part of a behavior modification program.

One thing is for certain, for a very large percentage of dogs, Thundershirt’s gentle, constant pressure has a terrific calming effect. This has obvious benefits for most types of anxiety. But Thundershirt is also a very useful tool for managing excitability or hyperactivity with strangers, on the leash, or in a training environment. Thundershirt’s calming effect helps a dog to focus (or refocus) her energies in a more constructive direction, allowing training to be more effective.

SEE BELOW FOR SELECTING THE CORRECT SIZE FOR YOUR DOG!
Introducing Thundershirt to Your Dog, and How to Put It On:
Before putting Thundershirt on your dog for the first time, we recommend offering a small amount of food to your dog using the Thundershirt as a “plate”. Dogs typically become more comfortable and trusting of something that “brings” them food or anything that they associate with food. So this is an easy little trick to quickly create a positive association with Thundershirt for your dog.
Thundershirt has been developed to be very easy to put on. Just lay it over your dog’s back and secure with the chest and torso straps. The Velcro fasteners make Thundershirt very adjustable to many different body shapes. See the illustrations and video for more information about how to put Thundershirt on at www.thundershirt.com
Step 1
Place the Thundershirt on your dog’s back and wrap the Short Flap under the torso.
Step 2
Wrap the Long Flap under the torso and secure with Velcro onto the short flap. Make a comfortable, but snug, fit. You should be able to easily slide your fingers between the Thundershirt and your dog’s torso.
Step 3
Wrap the Top Flap down onto the Long Flap and secure with Velcro. Adjust to improve the snug fit and keep Thundershirt securely in place.
Step 4
Wrap the Chest Straps around the front of the dog and secure with Velcro. You should be able to easily slide your fingers under the Chest Straps and should not feel restricting around your dog’s neck.
Noise Anxiety
Whether for thunder, fireworks, or any other sound, Thundershirt can help your dog’s noise anxiety. And no training is required! For noise anxiety, just put on Thundershirt and observe the results. Over 85% of Thundershirt users see significant improvement in noise anxiety symptoms. Most dogs respond with the very first usage; some need 2-3 usages before showing significant improvement. If you are aware of a noise trigger coming (e.g. thunderstorm on its way), put your Thundershirt on your dog prior to your dog becoming anxious. But… it is fine to put Thundershirt on AFTER your dog has become anxious; you will still see good results. In most cases, it is fine to leave your dog in her Thundershirt for extended periods of time. Many Thundershirt dog owners will put their dogs in their Thundershirts prior to going to work if a storm is forecasted during the day.
Below we have provided answers to a variety of common questions for noise anxiety.
With over an 85% success rate, why not try Thundershirt for your dog’s noise anxiety?
Noise Anxiety FAQ

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about using Thundershirt for noise anxiety. If you have any other questions you would like to ask, please contact us.
For what types of symptoms will Thundershirt work?
Thundershirt is effective for a wide variety of anxiety symptoms. For noise anxiety, those symptoms include shaking, panting, drooling, yawning, barking/whining, hyperactivity, eliminating indoors, clawing, digging, hiding, and clinging to owners. Thundershirt has even cured symptoms as severe as clawing through walls and seizures.
Will it work the first time my dog wears Thundershirt?
Most dogs show significant improvement within minutes of putting Thundershirt on for the first time. Some others take two to three usages before they show significant improvement.
How tight is “too tight”?
Thundershirt should only have comfortable pressure on your dog. How do you judge “comfortable”? You should be able to easily slip you fingers under the Thundershirt. For the next straps, they should only be gently stretched... no pressure is needed around the front chest area; the benefit from Thundershirt comes from the pressure around the torso behind the front legs. When securing the torso straps, you should be stretching the fabric, but it does not require any strenuous force.
How long can my dog wear Thundershirt?
Thundershirt is comfortable and safe to wear for extended periods.
Will my dog eventually no longer need Thundershirt for noise anxiety?
In some cases, yes! Thundershirt allows many dogs to experience the problem noise(s) in a calmer, less fearful state. Over time, this enables some dogs to learn to be less fearful of the noise(s) even without Thundershirt. The underlying symptoms diminish, or in some cases are eliminated entirely.
Noise Anxiety Testimonial

“Dear Thundershirt, First, I want to thank you for donating Thundershirts to SPCA International’s Operation Baghdad Pups Program. Your generosity and interest in this program is most appreciated. Second, my puppy, Tarmiyah, received one of these Thundershirts. It works great for my little girl. She is named after the Iraqi town in which she was rescued. The loud noises from the gunfire and bombings scared her there. When she arrived at my home in the USA, her fear of loud noises came with her. Thunderstorms, fireworks, and my vacuum cleaner now frighten her. She was receptive to the Thundershirt when I fitted her with it, and within minutes, she was calm. Last night there was a severe thunderstorm in my area. When I put on her Thundershirt, she didn’t try to hide behind my legs or curl up on my lap. She just laid on her part of the sofa and remained relaxed and calm. This is great idea you came up with.Thank you again!”
Rebecca, Atlanta, GA
From: Dog Owner
Issue(s): Noise Anxiety
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety can be an extremely challenging issue to manage and is often very stressful… for both the dog and her owners. Depending on the severity of your dog’s separation anxiety, a Thundershirt alone may be enough to solve your issues. The use of Thundershirt alone has eliminated or significantly reduced symptoms such as excessive barking/whining, destructive chewing, severe shaking, panting, indoor elimination, destructive clawing, and even seizures. But there are also easy steps you can take to further help your dog to be comfortable in your absence. See below for a training program. We have also provided answers to a variety of common questions for separation anxiety.
With over an 85% success rate, why not try Thundershirt for your dog’s separation anxiety?
Training Program for Relieving Separation Anxiety

We enlisted Nicole Wilde, CPDT, to provide her suggested training program for when a Thundershirt alone may not be enough. Nicole is the author of eight books, a popular columnist in major magazines including Modern Dog Magazine, and sought after speaker. She also teaches seminars and workshops around the country and internationally. For more information about Nicole and her published works, please visit www.phantompub.com.
Separation Anxiety FAQ

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about using Thundershirt for separation anxiety. If you have any other questions you would like to ask, please contact us on info@ttouch.co.za
If Thundershirt alone doesn’t resolve my dog’s symptoms, what training do you recommend?
As mentioned above, a Thundershirt alone may be sufficient for your dog. But if not, we definitely recommend adding some simple training exercises with the use of your Thundershirt. See above for details on the training programs.
For what types of symptoms will Thundershirt work?
For many dogs, Thundershirt is effective for a wide variety of anxiety symptoms. For travel anxiety, those symptoms include shaking, panting, drooling, barking/whining, hyperactivity, and even vomiting.

Can I wash and dry Thundershirt?
Thundershirt is made out of durable, washable fabric. When necessary, Thundershirt may be washed in a regular cycle using regular laundry detergent and warm water. Hang to dry.
How long can my dog wear Thundershirt?
Thundershirt is comfortable and safe to wear for extended periods.
Will my dog eventually no longer need Thundershirt for separation anxiety?
That’s very possible. As your dog learns to be more comfortable alone with the use of Thundershirt and any training you undertake, over time, your dog may learn to enjoy “independence” without any help at all. Just say goodbye on your way out and be comfortable that your dog and your house will be intact when you return!
Separation Anxiety Testimonials
“My vet recommended that we try Thundershirt for our Cocker Spaniel. He was having seizures everyday from separation anxiety and medications were not helping enough. Thundershirt has decreased his seizures considerably.”
AT, Rock Hill, SC
From: Dog Owner
Issue(s): Separation Anxiety

“Pressure wraps are an effective, non-invasive way to help dogs to feel more at ease. I like the Thundershirt especially because of its soft material, easy-to-apply Velcro closures, and low cost. I’m glad dogs everywhere can now reap its benefits.“
Nicole Wilde, CPDT
From: Dog Owner
Issue(s): Separation Anxiety
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Thundershirt work?

Thundershirt’s patent-pending design is a pressure wrap that applies a gentle, constant pressure on a dog’s torso. From real world experience, we know with certainty that Thundershirt DOES WORK. That is why we are able to offer a money-back guarantee. A survey of Thundershirt users shows that over 85% of dogs show significant improvement in at least one anxiety symptom when using Thundershirt.
According to some experts such as Dr. Temple Grandin, pressure has a calming effect on the nervous system. Using pressure to relieve anxiety has been a common practice for years. For example:
TTouch dog trainers use pressure to address a variety of anxieties.
Veterinarians use pressure to relax cattle when they are administering vaccinations.
Some autistic people use pressure to relieve their persistent anxiety.
Until now, there just hasn’t been a well-designed, inexpensive pressure wrap commonly used for canine anxiety.
Why doesn’t my vet know about this remedy for anxiety?

Good question! With millions of dogs suffering from anxiety, it amazes us that such an easy to use, inexpensive solution like Thundershirt isn’t more widely known and used. Thundershirt is working to change that; we have launched an outreach campaign for veterinarians. If you would like us to speak with your veterinarian, please contact us.
NOTE: in South Africa, this is a new concept and we have just been importing this year - 2010!

What training is required for using Thundershirt for anxieties?
For many types of anixety… none! Just put Thundershirt onto your dog and you will likely see results with the very first usage. However, for some dogs, it may take two to three usages to see results. For some more serious anxiety cases, such as severe separation anxiety, you should consult a good trainer for how to integrate Thundershirt into a training program. For more information on how to use Thundershirt, please go to www.thundershirt.com .
Can I wash and dry Thundershirt? Remove hair from Velcro hooks?

Thundershirt is made out of durable, washable fabric. When necessary, Thundershirt may be washed in a regular cycle using regular laundry detergent and warm water. Hang to dry.
If necessary, to remove dog hair from your Thundershirt’s velcro, we recommend using a standard dog “slicker” brush (Available at most any pet store for as little as $2.99). A couple of strokes and the velcro hooks will be nearly completely hair-free.
How do I put Thundershirt onto my dog?

We designed Thundershirt to be very easy to put on your dog, even if she is already in a state of anxiety.
What size is right for my dog?

Size
Chest Size
Weight
XXS
9"-13.5" or 25.5cm-33.75cm
   < 12 lbs. Or 5.4 kg
XS
13"-18" or 32.5-45cm
   10-18 lbs. Or 4.5-8.1kg
S
16"-23" or 40-57.5cm
   15-25 lbs. Or 6.75-11.25 kg
M
18"-26" or 45-65cm
   20-50 lbs. Or 9-22.5 kg
L
24"-32" or 60-80cm
   40-70 lbs. Or 18-31.5 kg
XL
31"-40" or 77.5-100cm
   60-100 lbs.or 27-45 kg
XXL
38"-50" or 95-125cm
   > 90 lbs. Or 40+ kg
Measure “Chest Size” as illustrated by red arrow below
Thundershirt comes in seven different sizes… XXL, XL, L, M, S, XS, and XXS. See the table to find the right size for your dog. Like people, dogs come in many different shapes and sizes, so if your dog has unusual proportions, you may need to go up or down a size versus the “standard” measurements. But the Thundershirt is designed to be very adjustable to accommodate different dog shapes and still be easy to put on.
Is overheating a concern when using a Thundershirt?

Except in extreme conditions (e.g. 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the sun), overheating is not typically a concern when using a Thundershirt. Dogs cool themselves primarily through their mouths and paws, and a Thundershirt is constructed of a thin, breathable fabric. The state of Florida is one of our biggest markets. But if you feel that overheating might be a problem for your particular circumstance, please monitor your dog for any signs of overheating such as heavy panting or tongue hanging out of the mouth. Remove the Thundershirt if you see any signs of overheating.
How do I contact you if I’m having problems with my Thundershirt?

For customer support on how to get the most out of your Thundershirt, see the below:

FAQ… Many questions are addressed in our detailed FAQ section.

Email… Send an email at support@thundershirt.com and we will respond within one business day.

Phone… Or if you prefer, call our customer support line at 866-892-2078. Our representatives are available Monday through Friday, 9:00AM to 4:00PM Eastern Standard Time.

In south Africa, you’re welcome to phone 011 884 3156 for the TTouch office
What if Thundershirt isn’t working for my dog?

We stand behind our product. Thundershirt is a terrific solution for most dogs suffering from anxiety. Many owners see reductions or complete elimination of symptoms with the very first use. With others, it may take two or three usages of Thundershirt to see results. You can go to www.thundershirt.com for more info on this product.
While we at the SA Tellington TTouch office love the Thundershirt, for severe noise phobia, we do recommend that it be used in conjunction with TTouch methods for best results. You might want to schedule a private session with one of our Practitioners. You will find a list of Practitioners at www.ttouch.co.za – just click on the practitioner page.
Travel Anxiety
Depending on the severity of your dog’s travel anxiety, a Thundershirt alone may be enough to solve your issues. The use of Thundershirt alone has eliminated or significantly reduced symptoms such as severe shaking, panting, excitability, barking and even vomiting. But there are also easy steps you can take to further help your dog to be a happy traveler. See below for a training program and training video. We have also provided answers to a variety of common questions for travel anxiety.
With over an 85% success rate, why not try Thundershirt for your dog’s travel anxiety?
Training Video for Relieving Travel Anxiety

Would you like to SEE the steps of Jenn Merritt’s training program demonstrated? Watch the video here.
http://www.thundershirt.com/HowItWorks/Travel.aspx
Travel Anxiety FAQ

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about using Thundershirt for travel anxiety. If you have any other questions you would like to ask, please contact us.
If Thundershirt alone doesn’t resolve my dog’s symptoms, what training do you recommend?
As mentioned above, a Thundershirt alone may be sufficient for your dog. But if not, we definitely recommend adding some simple training exercises with the use of your Thundershirt. Please go to the Practitioner Page of this website to find a practitioner in your area.
For what types of symptoms will Thundershirt work?
For many dogs, Thundershirt is effective for a wide variety of anxiety symptoms. For travel anxiety, those symptoms include shaking, panting, drooling, barking/whining, hyperactivity, and even vomiting.
How long can my dog wear Thundershirt?
Thundershirt is comfortable and safe to wear for extended periods.
Is Thundershirt a good solution if my dog hates going to the vets?
In many cases, yes! For a vet visit, we recommend putting Thundershirt on several minutes before heading to the car. You can leave Thundershirt on as you go into the vet’s office and in some cases, throughout the visit. Some veterinarians are even using their own Thundershirts with dogs that are anxious for treatments like dentals, ear exams/cleanings, and work on paws.
Will my dog eventually no longer need Thundershirt for travel anxiety?
That’s very possible. As your dog learns to be more comfortable traveling with the use of Thundershirt and any training you undertake, over time, your dog may be able to enjoy travel without any help at all. Just shake the car keys and hit the road!
Crating
As with noise and travel anxieties, a Thundershirt alone may be enough to solve your issues. The use of Thundershirt alone has eliminated or significantly reduced symptoms such as severe shaking, panting, barking/whining, “digging” or chewing. But there are also steps you can take to further help your dog be happy and comfortable in her crate. Additional information will be available here soon (under construction).
Dogs often become excited or distracted during training sessions, especially if in a multi-dog classroom environment. Thundershirt can help tremendously in those circumstances to reduce excitability, reactivity, and help focus the dogs on the training exercises.
Problem Barking
Thundershirt is the simplest solution for fixing problem barking. Thundershirt’s gentle, constant pressure has a tremendous calming effect, and this calming effect may be all you need to eliminate the problem barking. Or if necessary for your dog’s particular issue, Thundershirt can be an important part of a simple training program. See below for more information. But please don’t shock or spray your dog for problem barking… in most cases that will only bring about bigger problems!!!
With over an 85% success rate, why not try Thundershirt for your dog’s problem barking?

Practitioner Training

For Companion Animals

Now available in the Western Cape!!!

Cape Town – Gordon’s Bay

CT: March 30 - April 4

JHB: April 18-23
Come and Join us for this 6-Day Session!
You need no previous Experience to join this Training
Dear TTouch Friends,
We are excited to announce that the Practitioner Training Program for Companion Animals has finally arrived in the Western Cape. We had a stunning training there last October and are looking forward to going back! One of our Practitioners, Claire Grobbelaar has recently opened a wonderful new indoor venue in Gordon’s Bay and has invited us to give a training there. For those of you from Cape Town, I know it’s a bit of travel, but an easy drive compared to coming to Johannesburg!
For those of you from Gauteng and the nearer Provinces, not to worry, we will still hold our regular session here in Gauteng!
I hope this encourages you to join us for one of the best experiences you’ll ever have.
All the very best,
Eugenie
DATES:         March 30-April 4, 2012 in Cape Town
                        April 18-23, 2012 in Johannesburg
**COST:            +/-R4550 (Price dependant on Rand/Dollar Rate)
VENUE:        CT: Canine Concepts, Sir Lowry’s Pass Rd., Gordon’s Bay
                        JHB: Broshacarm Kennels, Midrand
CONTACT: Eugenie at info@ttouch.co.za or phone 011 884 3156
INSTRUCTOR: Linda Tellington-Jones
The Tellington TTouch^® Method
The Tellington TTouch Method is a unique approach to animal training and care developed by internationally known author and teacher, Linda Tellington-Jones. The foundation of this method is a specific form of bodywork known as TTouch^®, which induces a state of relaxation and increased body awareness in animals and people alike. The TTouch Method is based on a philosophy of mutual respect and cooperation and serves as a unique system of nonverbal communication with animals.
The Goals of TTouch Include:
      ·         Influencing positive behavioral changes
·         Promoting well-being through reduction of stress
·         Deepening the relationship and fostering clear communication between people and animals
There are four basic components of the TTouch Method:
·         TTouch Bodywork
·         TTouch Tools
·         The TTouch Confidence Course
·         Communication
TTouch is a way of physically working with animals that has been shown to improve performance and health and facilitates solutions to common physical and behavioural problems. An additional benefit is a deeper rapport between humans and animals through increased understanding and communication that is more effective. This training session can be taken by those who are interested in a gentler and more effective way to work with their own animals, or for those who want to work with animals professionally; it can be counted as the first session in the three -year TTouch Practitioner Certification Program.
The Practitioner training runs over 3 years and consists of 6 Modules. So there are two 6 day Trainings each year. You do NOT need to have any previous experience to join this training.
After your Introductory Session and between sessions, students are encouraged to assist at workshops for further experience and do case studies. The program comprises only 2 sessions a year in order to help students with their finances and the need to get time off work. The workshops are scheduled to include a weekend in order to make it as convenient as possible.
The Program is a comprehensive training of hands on work with Companion Animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, etc.
During the 3 year professional training and certification program, you will:
Experience ways of working with dogs, cats, birds and other pets that are unique and rewarding and can change your life.
Acquire easy-to-use skills to deal with common behaviour and health related problems
Use techniques to increase performance and reduce stress in show, obedience, agility, schutzhund and trial dogs
Work with shelter animals to help them adapt more easily to new environments
Participate in Client days to gain experience working in a Client and dog.
Do case studies for experience and feedback from Instructors.
Learn how to help animals recover more quickly from surgery and injury
Understand how TTouch inspires understanding and compassion for all life
Your First and Second Year
After four trainings you will become a Practitioner in Training and you will be immersed in Tellington TTouch philosophy and techniques. Our professional instructors demonstrate various techniques through lectures and hands-on work with dogs, cats, birds and other small animals. Some sessions are held at animal shelters that provide a wide variety of animals for you to learn with.
In your first two years, you will learn how to:**
* Identify behaviour, health and temperament problems and learn creative solutions
* Work with cats to alleviate common issues such as aloofness, timidity and aggression
* Learn to use the canine head collar, body wraps, and other TTouch training tools
* Use leading exercises and a Confidence Course to increase the dogs learning ability
* Implement new approaches to stress free grooming.
After attending the first 4 week-long sessions, you will have secured a firm foundation in the work. At your second training you will be assigned a mentor who will support you between trainings. To enhance your education in this program, you will be asked to work with animals between trainings and journal those sessions in case studies.
On successful completion of your first 4 trainings and your case studies, you will have earned your Two-Year Certificate. You are then qualified to:
Charge for work with individual animals while you are finishing your training.
Give short presentations, up to one hour, introducing TTouch to clubs and organizations.
Your Third Year
The third year builds on the skills and tools you learned in the first and second year. As you continue working with your classmates, teachers and the animals, you will incorporate new skills and deepen your understanding of the techniques and philosophy. You will also be working with clients and their animals during the trainings and here you will hone your ability to work with individual animals and satisfy the needs of their owners. You will acquire information on how to market yourself and your TTouch skills.
In your third year, you will be required to: Attend 2 week-long trainings, attend two weekend trainings when possible given by TTouch Practitioners or Instructors and continue private sessions with companion animals and prepare case studies. Upon successful completion of the course work, you will receive a TTouch for Companion Animals Certificate, Practitioner 1.
You are then qualified to:
Work privately with animals according to the agreement signed on entry into the program
Give one-day hands-on workshops
Use the official TTouch logo on your business cards, letterhead and advertisements according to the terms of the agreement.
The costs of the 6-day workshops will be+/- R4550 (Dependant on the Rand/Dollar Rate)
If you are interested in knowing more, please contact Eugenie on 011 884-3156 or email eugenie@ttouch.co.za
For more info on Canine Concepts, please get in touch with Claire at 021 856 5886   or go to   www.canineconcepts.co.za


© 2006 TTouch - eugenie@ttouch.co.za. All Rights Reserved.