Dr. Caldwell is an adjunct professor at several universities, teaching courses in animal behavior and psychology. She has dedicated her career to animal training, behavior, and welfare. Dr. Caldwell has over twenty-five years of experience in the behavioral science and zoological fields, working with a variety of species; her graduate research focused on the effects of environmental enrichment on sea otter behavior. She has participated in several marine conservation and research projects with a diverse group of animals, including bottlenose dolphins, sea otters, penguins, and right whales.

Dr. Caldwell has over 20 years of experience as a professional dog trainer, teaching classes in obedience, socialization, and therapy dog training. She was a therapy dog evaluator and has been a registered therapy dog handler since 2014. She conducted her doctoral dissertation on the factors that motivate canine handlers to volunteer in animal-assisted activities. She is a fear-free and relationship-centered certified trainer. Her training philosophy focuses on using LIMA methods to help students to connect, communicate, and ultimately develop a strong relationship with their dogs.