Of course we can compel animals to (apparently) extinguish undesirable behaviours, but is this really the case? Normally what happens is that the behaviour is covered over and hidden: it becomes less visible. because the consequences for the animal if it does not comply may be more than disagreeable – even violent. The truth is that imposition and control rarely lead us to the heart of the question. We do not learn why this behaviour is occurring. We do not discover what factors or triggers, both external and internal, give rise to the behaviour.
This is why TTouch places so much emphasis on observation and understanding. If we understand the reason why the behaviour is occurring, then we can approach it with respect. If we work respecting the animal, we earn its trust. If we earn trust, then we can cooperate. Balance, physical, mental and emotional, creates an environment and a state of mind where learning can take place. In this context we can offer the animal an alternative to the undesirable behaviour.
