In May of 2022, Gunner was transferred to HSVC through one of our rescue partners, and for over 200 days, he patiently waited for the right person to take him home. During his time at the shelter, the German Shepherd mix was a regular on pack walks, always walking gently on his leash and letting his delicate and sweet personality shine through. Despite his loving nature, Gunner’s large size and energetic personality made it hard to find a home that was the perfect fit. In December 2022, Gunner’s wait came to an end. The Harrisons, a family ready to open their hearts to a new dog, saw Gunner and knew immediately he was the one. Gunner finally had the forever family he had been waiting for!

Fast forward to March 2025, 5-year-old Gunner’s life with the Harrisons couldn’t be more perfect. After moving to a beautiful town in Washington, Gunner now has access to miles of scenic trails and endless outdoor adventures. The Harrisons shared with us how happy they are with Gunner’s progress and how much he loves his new life in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). "We had no idea what a great dog he would be," they wrote. One of the highlights of Gunner’s new life is his love for snow. The Harrisons shared photos of Gunner joyfully running through the snow, his energy and excitement clearly visible in every picture. Snow has become one of his favorite things, and he’s always eager to get outside and play in the winter wonderland. Along with his love for snow, Gunner has become an avid trail explorer. The Harrisons take him on many hikes, allowing him to enjoy the great outdoors and burn off his abundant energy. Whether he’s chasing after sticks, running through the woods, or simply soaking up the fresh air, Gunner is thriving in his new environment. In addition to enjoying his new life, Gunner’s family has also found ways to give back to the community. After settling into their new home, they began donating to a local Humane Society in support of animals in need as a gesture of gratitude for the life they’ve built with Gunner.

Gunner’s journey from a shy, timid dog in a shelter to an adventurous, snow-loving companion is a testament to the power of patience, love, and adoption. His story shows us that every dog deserves a second chance, and sometimes, the perfect match takes time. For Gunner, that perfect match came in the form of the Harrisons, who are now living life to the fullest with their beloved dogs. As Gunner continues to explore new trails, play in the snow, and snuggle with his family, it’s clear that he has found his forever home. Here’s to many more years of snowy adventures, outdoor hikes, and endless love for Gunner and his forever family!