Echo Dogs White Shepherd Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-proifit organization that rescues neglected and or abused dogs, and dogs from death row in shelters, rehabilitates them to the best of our ability in foster care, and then places them in new, loving homes. EDWSR covers most of the US and some areas in Canada with the help of a network of volunteers, an email list, and a web page of available dogs.

EDWSR uses a strict application process, contracts, home checks, follow-up inspections, and offers training help to the new homes and the new dogs adjust. Applying for a specific dog does NOT guarantee that you will get that dog.  Often we have more than one approved applicant for each dog, so we must decide among applicants a determine the best fit for dog and family.  However, one thing is certain -- we have no shortage of dogs needing homes.  Once you are approved, if the dog for which you applied is destined to be adopted by a different family, we will work with you to find the best dog for your family and lifestyle.  We work hard to match you with a dog that will fit best in your home environment, depending on your needs and desires and the needs of the dog.  We want the next dog for each of our dogs to be the last home they have. 

Echo Dogs White Shepherd Rescue reserves the right to take back any dog that is not being properly cared for or treated right in their adoptive home. If you cannot keep the dog for some reason we will work with you to rehome the dog, and take it back into one of our foster homes, if necessary. We will try, however to work with you and your new dog so that you all can be happy in your home situation. Read more about adoptions or fostering a dog in need on the "Adoptions & Fostering" page.

This website is dedicated to the memory
of our Founder Mark G. Echterling

Mark Echterling had been involved in many things with his white shepherds Max and Shadow, including Search and Rescue, Dog Scouts of America (DSA), American White Shepherd Association (AWSA), and was always there with his talented dogs to help raise funds for needy organizations.

In late 2001 Mark founded Echo Dogs White Shepherd Rescue, having already being involved in independent rescue for about 2 years. The organization began in Cedar Lake, Indiana with about 5 people. Today Echo Dogs is nationwide, including Canada, and is growing more every day. Mark lost his year and a half long battle with lung cancer and passed away in September 2004. He will always be remembered for his hard work with white shepherds. He will be sadly missed.
Take care of our babies who are at Rainbow Bridge Mark, we love you!

- EDWSR Volunteers

Below are photos of some activities Mark and his dogs were involved in.

Mark, Max and Shadow at
Dogs Scouts of America Camp

Mark & Max Instructing Classes
at Dog Scouts Camp