ACE Freework and how it can help with Loose Lead walking and Holding on to Objects

Animal Centred Education (ACE) is an integrated and multi-modal approach to animal wellbeing and education.

ACE Observations combined with ACE Free Work help caregivers and guardians focus on the health and wellbeing of the dog’s internal environment. As we deepen our understanding, we can shift our perspective when it comes to education and think in terms of income for the dog, as opposed to outcome. The more balanced and peaceful the dog’s internal environment becomes, the less disruptive the external environment will be – even for dogs who have had a poor start in life or those who are sensitive to sensory information.

As well as giving us tools to improve our observations skills, ACE Free Work can help improve the posture of our canine companions without the need to use our hands. If we habitually lead our dogs from our left side for example, we can inadvertently reinforce natural postural tendencies creating uneven load on the skeleton and soft tissue.

ACE Free Work enables a dog to process new experiences and develop more efficient postural and behavioural habits. It helps dog to become more considered and less reflexive in their responses. It helps to meet a dog’s need to be curious, move, explore, and engage the sensory systems. It can also be of benefit to identify emotional and physical discomfort, and as part of a therapeutic approach to modifying pain.

This presentation will include:

• An introduction to Animal Centred Education and ACE Free Work
• ACE Observations
• Deficient and excess movement and behaviour patterns
• Creating your first Free Work layouts
• Building the Free Work layers