Duo

Volunteer Spotlight: Dan Horner. When Dan Horner first came to Duo in August 2021, he was looking for a way to move forward after the loss of his wife of 56 years, Susie. What he found was something he never expected: a second family.

Dan began volunteering in Kennel Enrichment, where he quickly fell in love with the dogs and the people behind Duo's mission. When Duo Dog Mini needed a new Volunteer Puppy Raiser, Dan stepped forward. With guidance from the Duo team, he learned the training skills needed to help Mini succeed. She went on to be placed as a Hearing Assistance Dog, changing someone's life forever.

Since then, Dan has raised Duo Dogs Gordie, Holly, Belle, Oakley, and is currently raising Duo Dog Tess. In addition to serving as a Volunteer Puppy Raiser, he volunteers in Kennel Enrichment, helps as a Whelper Helper caring for newborn puppies, and serves on Duo's Board of Directors.

When he's not volunteering, Dan enjoys playing music with bands throughout the St. Louis area, spending time outdoors, and visiting his son and family in Arizona.

For Dan, the most meaningful part of volunteering is seeing the mission come full circle. "I've experienced our mission of creating extraordinary bonds between people and dogs by raising these wonderful dogs, experiencing the temporary heartbreak of turning them back to Duo for advanced training, and the thrill and reward of seeing them graduate and be placed with people and facilities in need. It makes every hour volunteered worth it."

Thank you, Dan, for your unwavering commitment, compassionate heart, and the countless lives you've helped impact through your dedication to Duo.