The Legacy of Gunner Scout
Gunner Scout was more than a dog — he represented loyalty, protection, purpose, service, and the life-changing bond between people and animals.
His story with us was cut short, but his mission lives on. He quickly became the foundation for Gunner’s Mission — a community-focused initiative dedicated to prevention, education, accessible care, and sustainable animal welfare solutions in rural Texas. Gunner never missed an appointment and he loved going to the vet. We know the importance of responsible pet ownership.
Every vaccine provided, every microchip implanted, every pet kept healthy, and every life given a second chance carries his mission forward.
This is more than rescue.
It’s responsibility.
It’s community.
It’s a mission.
Our Heart & Soul
MISSION STATEMENT
Gunner’s Mission is a community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing animal welfare, public safety, and prevention-based support services throughout rural communities.
The organization works to reduce pet overpopulation and improve animal welfare outcomes through low-cost vaccine initiatives, spay and neuter programs, community outreach, responsible pet ownership education, foster support, and partnerships that expand access to affordable care and resources in underserved areas.
In addition to prevention-focused services, Gunner’s Mission may support rescue, rehabilitation, training, transport, disaster response, search-and-rescue initiatives, community safety efforts, and specialized working-dog programs designed to assist law enforcement, veterans, children with disabilities, and the communities they serve.
The organization is committed to developing sustainable programs that strengthen both animal welfare and community resilience through education, service, strategic partnerships, and innovative rural outreach initiatives.
Founded by Brittany Hughes, an active-duty service member and advocate for rural animal welfare, alongside her husband, a five-time combat veteran, Gunner’s Mission is rooted in a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, protection of the vulnerable, and strengthening the communities they call home.
Inspired by the legacy of Gunner Scout, the mission continues to grow with a focus on prevention, preparedness, public safety, and meaningful community impact.
Prevention. Protection. Purpose.
Behind the Mission
BRITTANY & DON HUGHES
Rooted in faith, family, and service, Brittany and Don Hughes founded Gunner’s Mission with a shared commitment to strengthening both animal welfare and rural communities through compassion, accountability, and sustainable solutions.
As an active-duty service member and community advocate, Brittany brings leadership, discipline, and a prevention-focused mindset to the organization. Her passion extends beyond animal welfare to advocating for children with special needs, veterans, and individuals whose voices are too often overlooked or unheard.
Alongside her, Don, also an active-duty service member with nearly 24 years of military service and five combat deployments, brings resilience, unwavering support, and a lifelong commitment to serving others. Together, their shared military background has shaped the values at the heart of Gunner’s Mission — service, integrity, leadership, and community impact.
Above all else, their four children are their world and the driving force behind the compassion and purpose that continue to guide the mission forward.
Together, their vision for Gunner’s Mission reaches beyond rescue alone — focusing on prevention, education, preparedness, public safety, community partnerships, and long-term solutions that strengthen both people and animals throughout rural communities.
Rooted in service, leadership, and community impact, Gunner's Mission is guided by a commitment to sustainable animal welfare solutions.