Imagine every time someone shouted "ready" that they throw a little gold nugget at you.  After a few "readys" you were be READY and waiting to catch the nugget.  

In this case the nugget is a piece of food.  It must be a piece of food your dog wants!!!  Don't chuck white wine at me and expect me to catch it!!

Say the word "ready" and toss a piece of food at your dogs mouth area.  Not to quick. Doesn't matter if it lands on his head and drops to the floor.  He will get the idea.  This is your emergency "orientate towards" me command.