What is Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)?
We have implemented a technique known as Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) for our very young puppies. ENS involves introducing controlled, mild stresses to these puppies to positively impact their neurological development. This, in turn, enhances the growth and functioning of their immune system, cardiovascular system, and ability to handle stress.
ENS is carried out over a two-week period, commencing three days after the puppies are born. This procedure comprises five gentle and harmless exercises, each lasting 3-5 seconds, with the entire process taking about 30 seconds in total.
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Tactile stimulation involves lightly touching or tickling the area between each of the puppy's toes using a Q-tip.
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The supine position requires holding the puppy in a belly-up position in both hands (some puppies may wriggle, so a secure yet gentle grip is essential).
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To hold the puppy with its head up, cradle it in both hands so that its tail points downward and its head is raised above the tail toward the ceiling.
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Transitioning from the head-up position, gently tilt the puppy upside down, ensuring the head faces downward while the tail points upward.
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For thermal stimulation, prepare a damp, cool towel and place the puppy right side up with its belly resting on the moist, cool surface.
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These five simple and painless exercises are undertaken to prepare our puppies for the journey of life. Devoting just 30 seconds a day for two weeks, we observe significant enhancements in their immune systems and stress tolerance. We are committed to continuing the practice of Early Neurological Stimulation for our puppies, as we have witnessed its clear benefits in shaping them into well-adjusted and beloved canine companions.
What is Early Scent Introduction (ESI)?
Starting when the puppy is just three days old and continuing until approximately the middle of the third week of their life, we incorporate a diverse array of essential oils and herbs into their environment. These include, but are not limited to, scents like mint, cloves, lemon, lavender, and orange. Additionally, we introduce various food scents and objects such as apples, gluten, grass, feathers, fabrics infused with the scents of cats or other animals, leaves, leather, and more. At the three-week mark, we expand our scent exposure to encompass fragrances related to conditions like anxiety, diabetes, seizures, and others. This decision is informed by the observations made during the initial three weeks, allowing us to identify which puppies in each litter may be suitable for service work.
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Each day, we introduce a new scent to the puppies' environment. We assess their reactions, considering a response as positive when the puppy displays interest in the scent by moving toward it. Conversely, we record a negative reaction when the puppy attempts to distance itself from the scent. Lastly, if a puppy neither displays interest nor disinterest in the scent, we classify this as a neutral reaction.