26 Years of Wisdom. 160 Acres of Wilderness. One Deepened Bond.

The Alvord Awakening: A Mindful Dog & Human Retreat

Be Big. Be Small. Just Be.

There is a place where the shoreline of the Alvord Desert meets the base of the Steens Mountain, a landscape so vast it reminds you how small you are, yet so silent it allows your potential to feel infinite.

This is not a traditional dog training seminar. This is a homecoming to nature, a masterclass in human-canine reflection, and a restorative immersion into the high desert lifestyle.

Your dog is a reflection of you. To better your dog, you must first find the space to better yourself.

The Experience: A Synthesis of Science and Soul

Kristin Baker holds a Masters in Education, focusing in Montessori Education She also has 26 years of professional dog training experience (CPDT-KA, IAABC). Kristin is also a certified yoga instructor with a lifetime of meditation practice. Having grown up in a family that meditates, some of Kristin’s earliest memories are of sitting with monks.

This retreat bridges the gap between technical behavior science and mindful presence.

What’s Included

Mindful Dog Handling: Nature obedience and behavior observation sessions that focus on the why behind the observations.

The Kinetic Bond: Experience the thrill of dryland mushing with our resident team of dogs.

Grounding Practices: Daily yoga and meditation tailored for dog handlers.

High Desert Exploration: Guided trail hiking, e-bike excursions, and artistic expression sessions.

The Reset: Nightly wood fired saunas and restorative soaks in the local hot springs.

Connection: Fireside discussions on all things Dogs!

The Sustenance: Farm to Table

Nourishment is an integral part of the experience. All meals are provided, cooked on site and prepared using all natural, farm to table ingredients mostly sourced directly from our 160 acre permaculture homestead.

Breakfast: High protein, homestead fresh starts to fuel your adventure.

Lunch: Seasonal, light, and vibrant dishes enjoyed in the desert breeze.

Dinner: Shared community meals under one of the brightest star canopies in Oregon.

Lodging: Sleep Under the Stars

Rest in the heart of the wilderness without sacrificing comfort. Our luxury Bell Tents offer a rugged yet refined sanctuary. Each tent is outfitted with the following:

Comfortable, raised cots with warm bedding.
Personal space for you and your dog to decompress.
Immediate access to the sights and sounds of the high desert.

About Kristin: Expert Pedagogy, Real World Wisdom

With over two and a half decades of experience as a professional dog trainer, Kristin brings a unique multidisciplinary approach to the lead:

M.Ed. (Montessori Focus): Applying the prepared environment philosophy to dog training.

CPDT-KA & IAABC Certified: Ensuring every interaction is rooted in modern, ethical behavior science.

International Yoga Alliance Instructor: Guiding you through the physical and mental shifts needed to lead with peace.

WELCOME

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