09/25/2025
Orientation Week for Class 9 of Beyond The Bars wrapped up last week—and what a week it was!
So much happens behind the scenes before a new class even begins: referrals, interviews across multiple jails, agreements and court appearances, orders signed, releases granted, and a mountain of administrative prep at our building. By the time orientation week is over, we’re all a little tired—but it’s the best kind of tired.
During orientation, the men dove into dog history and behavior, body language, handling skills, learning theory, classical conditioning, and the four quadrants of training (we train in R+ 🐶✨). They also got to know us, each other, and the daily routine. Watson, the 4 legged bestie of our Director, and a proud graduate of Beyond The Bars Class 6 was present as the emotional support dog, and a great one he is, with lots of love to share with everyone!
We mixed in icebreakers and games, music and art with Rachel, and closed the week with pizza, hugs, and a sense of connection. 🍕 Every piece of this process helps build the trust and support that are at the core of this program.
This week brought even more excitement, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Keep following our journey—and our mission: Utilizing Shelter Dogs to Break the Cycle of Incarceration.
