Hi, I’m Caitlin Tamer, founder of The Echo Foundation, Inc.

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I’ve been deeply involved in the dog industry for over five years, working with everything from companion pets to high-drive working dogs. I specialize in training and behavior, and my passion lies in building strong, purpose-driven partnerships between dogs and their handlers.

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I actively compete in Protection Sports Association (PSA) and currently train and handle Kayn, a certified narcotics detection K9 who still competes in the sport. My life revolves around the working dog community, canine nutrition, and giving dogs every opportunity to thrive.

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I was well aware of Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), especially how prevalent and deadly it is in Dobermans. But even with that knowledge, nothing could have prepared me for the personal impact of the disease.

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I lost my heart dog, Echo, to DCM.

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He competed in PSA and trained in narcotics detection, but Echo was more than just a working dog. He was my hiking buddy, swimming partner, and best friend. He was vibrant, driven, and deeply connected to me. Losing him to a disease I thought I understood was shattering, and it showed me just how much more work needs to be done.

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That pain turned into purpose.
That purpose became The Echo Foundation, Inc.

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I created this nonprofit to honor Echo’s legacy and to fight for dogs like him, through funding scientific research, promoting early detection, and raising awareness around DCM. My mission is to give owners the tools to act early, support the researchers doing critical work, and one day help find a cure.

This foundation is deeply personal. It’s fueled by loss, but powered by love, and driven by the belief that we can do better for our dogs.

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Thank you for being part of this journey.