Gunner
Gunner's birthday is December 19, 2019.
Gunner is a Belgian Malinois.
Gunner's Story
Some dogs come to Misfit Ranch because they were abandoned.
Others come to us because they were loved beyond measure.
Gunner is one of those dogs.
As a retired K-9 officer, Gunner spent his career serving alongside his handler, protecting his community and standing faithfully by his partner's side through every challenge they faced together. Their bond was built on trust, loyalty, and years of working as a team.
When Gunner's owner was diagnosed with terminal cancer, his greatest concern wasn't for himself—it was for Gunner.
Knowing he was facing a major surgery with an uncertain outcome, he wanted to make sure his partner would always have a safe place to call home if he was no longer able to care for him. He reached out looking for experienced handlers who understood working dogs and could provide Gunner with the life he deserved.
That search led him to Misfit Ranch.
Welcoming Gunner into our family wasn't about rescuing a forgotten dog.
It was about honoring a promise.
Today, Gunner continues to enjoy the life he's earned after years of faithful service. He spends his days surrounded by people who understand him, respect the incredible dog he is, and are committed to giving him the same loyalty he gave so selflessly throughout his career.
Some heroes wear badges.
Others wear fur.
And every hero deserves a peaceful retirement filled with love.
Gunner's Health Journey
Unlike many of the Misfits who arrive needing extensive medical care, Gunner came to us in relatively good health.
Even so, every dog who joins the Misfit family receives a comprehensive medical evaluation to help us better understand their individual needs and ensure they're set up for long-term success.
After arriving at the Ranch, Gunner was examined by our veterinary team and underwent routine testing to establish a baseline for his health. We're happy to share that everything looked great, allowing him to settle into retirement with confidence and peace of mind.
Whether a dog arrives needing emergency medical care or simply a thorough checkup, our promise is the same:
To give them everything they need to live the happiest, healthiest life possible.
Gunner's Training
Before Gunner ever became a Misfit, he spent years working alongside his owner. The advanced training, discipline, and focus that made him exceptional are still very much a part of who he is today.
Like many retired working dogs, Gunner sometimes naturally shifts back into "work mode," particularly when he's on leash. It's one of the many reasons his owner wanted him to spend his retirement with experienced handlers who not only understood Belgian Malinois but also the unique mindset of working dogs.
At Misfit Ranch, we don't want Gunner to forget everything he learned.
We want him to discover that he's earned the opportunity to simply be a dog.
One of the goals we're currently working toward is responsibly giving Gunner the freedom to enjoy the Ranch off leash. That kind of freedom isn't something that's taught overnight—it's built through trust, communication, consistency, and an unshakable bond between dog and handler.
Together, we're building that partnership every day.
We're proud to say Gunner is doing an incredible job, and he's well on his way to enjoying the retirement he's worked so hard to earn.
Why I'm a Sanctuary Misfit
Gunner's story is unlike any other at Misfit Ranch.
When his owner entrusted Gunner to our care, it wasn't because Gunner needed rescuing—it was because he needed certainty.
His owner wanted to know exactly where his partner would spend the rest of his life, surrounded by people who understood working dogs and were committed to providing the care, structure, and respect Gunner had earned through years of dedicated service.
We made him a promise.
Unless a close friend or family member of Gunner's owner ever comes forward wishing to welcome him home, Gunner will always have a home here at Misfit Ranch.
It's a promise we intend to keep.
Here, Gunner is surrounded by experienced handlers, familiar routines, and people who understand both the incredible working dog he was and the happy retiree he's becoming.
Become Gunner's Sponsor
Every sanctuary dog at Misfit Ranch represents a lifelong promise.
By sponsoring Gunner, you're helping provide the everyday care he depends on while allowing us to direct more of our rescue resources toward helping other dogs in our community and continuing to build the future of the Ranch.
Gunner's monthly sponsorship is $60, which helps cover the cost of his food, supplements, and routine veterinary care.
If you'd like to become part of Gunner story, simply click the Sponsor Me button below.
On the donation page, select Monthly instead of One-Time, enter $60 as your donation amount, and include "Sponsoring Gunner" in the notes so we can ensure your gift is designated to his care.
Once your sponsorship is active, we'll proudly update Gunner's page to recognize your generosity (unless you prefer to remain anonymous).
Your generosity won't just change Gunner's life. It will help us keep the promise we made the day he became part of the Misfit family.
Thank you for taking the time to visit Misfit Ranch online and for reading about our boy Gunner.