Help Gunner Recover: Support Jenn and Beau

Hello everyone,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share the touching story of Gunner, a beloved dog who has become a cherished part of disc golf community and Beau and Jenn Mathis’ family. Gunner was Tanner Bates’ dog, and after Tanner tragically lost his life in a work accident, Jenn didn't hesitate to take Gunner in. Having Gunner around has been a comforting reminder of Tanner for Jenn, bringing some peace amidst the heartache.

When Beau entered Jenn’s life, he quickly bonded with Gunner. Gunner became Beau’s loyal sidekick, especially during their many disc golf outings (at least once a week and usually more). Every year for the past four years, The Tanner Bates Memorial Disc Golf Tournament has been held to raise money for scholarships, dog rescue donations, sober living houses, and tuition assistance for kids to participate in extracurricular activities, as well as a mobile sports locker with equipment for their needs. Jenn works tirelessly to keep this event organized and secure sponsors each year.

This past Saturday, The Tanner Bates Memorial Tournament took place, and as always, Gunner was there to represent. If you've attended in the past, you know that Gunner is a staple at these events. He enjoys the tournaments, happily following Beau all over the course and mingling with everyone.

Unfortunately, as we were wrapping up the tournament on Saturday, Gunner began showing signs of distress. Initially, it seemed like he might be overheated, but once he was home and cooled down, it was clear that something more serious was happening. Gunner was in pain, unable to lie down, and crying. Jenn quickly rushed him to the ER Vet in North Little Rock. After an exam and an x-ray, the vet diagnosed Gunner with Bloat (gastric dilation-volvulus or GVD), a life-threatening condition where the stomach becomes distended with gas and/or food and twists itself. Gunner was in critical condition and needed immediate surgery to decompress and untwist his stomach to save his life. Dogs can die within two hours of this happening.

Now, Jenn and Beau are faced with vet bills exceeding $7,000, with the possibility of more costs to come. Tanner’s foundation has supported dog rescues over the past few years and given so much to charitable needs. Now, we hope people can find it in their hearts to give back to Jenn and Beau. With their baby due in just 12 short weeks, this unexpected expense could make it challenging for them to prepare for Baby Jackson.

Any support you can offer would be greatly appreciated. Every little bit helps, and if we all pull together, we can help lighten their burden.

Jenn and Beau would also like to requests that you keep Gunner In your prayers. Please pray for his complete healing so he can get back outside to disc golf and chasing balls. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.