In the bustling world of dog training and rehabilitation, there's a gentle, yet profoundly effective approach that's gaining traction among dog owners and trainers alike: ACE Freework. This innovative method, standing for
Animal Centred Education Freework, developed by the wonderful Sarah Fisher is a game-changer for our canine companions, offering a unique way to support their emotional and physical well-being.
Last week we headed down to Tilley Farm near Bath for a Workshop run by
South West Dog Skills - having read about Freework and dabbled I was really keen for expert guidance about it and I was not disappointed.
It was an amazing experience for all my dogs but particularly my anxious Seren and my anxious blind dog Inka. I came away with loads of ideas of how to do this more at home and incorporate the use of scent particularly essential oils.
What is ACE Freework?
At its core, ACE Freework is a holistic training approach that encourages dogs to explore and interact with their environment at their own pace. It's a setup that includes various textures, objects, and challenges, allowing dogs to make choices and engage their senses. This method is particularly beneficial for anxious, reactive, or disabled dogs, like my own blind dog, as it promotes confidence, calmness, and self-awareness without the pressures of direct human interaction.
The Philosophy Behind ACE Freework
The philosophy of ACE Freework is grounded in respect for the dog as an individual, recognizing their need for autonomy and mental stimulation. By providing an environment where they can explore safely, dogs are empowered to make choices, leading to enhanced learning and emotional regulation. This approach aligns perfectly with my advocacy for dogs, as it offers them a gentle way to engage with the world, catering to their unique needs and abilities.
Benefits of ACE Freework for Dogs
1. **Emotional Health:** Freework helps to reduce stress and anxiety by giving dogs control over their actions, which is especially beneficial for my blind dog Inka who has thrived with this idea managed naturally alongside other holistic practices such as using essential oil on her and objects alongside other behaviour modifications.
2. **Cognitive Stimulation:** The variety of textures, smells, and objects challenges dogs mentally, keeping their brains active and engaged, particularly useful for my senior 2 legged dog who cannot mobilise like he used to be able to do.
3. **Physical Exercise:** Although not as rigorous as some of the activities we are used too, Freework encourages gentle movement across different surfaces, aiding in physical rehabilitation and mobility, great for my dogs - senior spaniels who all have arthritis in some form and my disabled dogs too.
4. **Sensory Enrichment:** By engaging all their senses, dogs can experience a fuller, more enriched life, leading to overall well-being - dogs live in a world of scent and this is ideal for encouraging them to use this basic sense which in turn helps calm and soothe them.
Implementing ACE Freework in Your Routine
Integrating ACE Freework into your dog's routine doesn't require extensive equipment or space. Start with simple items like different textured mats, snuffle mats, lick mats and other objects like sheepswool and cardboard that your dog can interact with. Observe their choices and behavior, and let these observations guide your future setups. Remember, the goal is to allow your dog to explore at their own pace, without direct commands or guidance.
Join Us for a Deeper Dive
For those intrigued by the transformative power of ACE Freework, I will be adding webinars and tips to my exclusive Membership area and my Essential Oils For Pets Course which as well as having the low down on all oils and pets also has extensive behaviour advice for helping your anxious or reactive dog as well as modules on canine arthritis and more. This course free for members covers a variety of natural options, to aid you in managing a range of issues including insights into senior dog care and how to support dogs like my 2 legged dog Maz and my senior spaniels, who have found a new lease on life through natural and holistic approaches.
Final Thoughts
ACE Freework is more than just a training method; it's a pathway to understanding and supporting our dogs in a more profound, respectful way. By embracing this approach, we can unlock a world of benefits for our furry friends, ensuring they lead happy, healthy, and fulfilled lives.
Want to learn more about using essential oils and how they can help your health and that of your pets? Get in touch to find out how I can help you with a tailored plan for you all.
Information given here is not intended as a substitute for medical or veterinary consultation - the author has no liability nor responsibility with respect to any issues occurring out of use such as damage, loss, injury.