Guided by Gilbert Puppies Take Flight

Eight golden retriever puppies, named for the beloved dog Gilbert, are now training to become service dogs in honor of the Hortman family—Mark, Melissa, and their daughter Sophie—who tragically passed away last year. Inspired by their decade-long commitment to service dogs, including the life-changing work of Minnie, who helped a veteran heal, the family’s legacy lives on through Helping Paws. After their loss, the community rallied, launching the Hortman Heroes Fund and securing a $200,000 state grant to support the “Guided by Gilbert” litter. With names starting with ‘G’ and a birth timing that felt destined, these puppies carry forward the hope that service dogs will continue transforming lives—just as Minnie did—and that Gilbert’s spirit endures through every paw that steps into service. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/dffbd332ca8d417b