Menu
Dear Volunteers/Supporters/Friends of Military Animal Project,
It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved Co-Founder, Bob Horrell.
Bob lost his battle with cancer in the early morning hours on December 12, 2024.
Bob was not only an integral part of Military Animal Project but also its beating heart and guiding spirit. His unwavering commitment to our mission and the veterans we serve has left an indelible mark on the communities he served.
Bob personally met with every veteran who applied for a dog, working alongside our trainers to understand and address each veteran’s unique needs. As a veteran himself, Bob had a rare ability to connect with those we serve—offering not just support but deep understanding and empathy.
Bob’s journey of service began when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October 1964. He served two tours in Vietnam from 1966 to 1968 as part of Operation Market Time, where his courage and dedication were instrumental in identifying and neutralizing hostile vessels carrying arms through the river deltas.
After leaving the Navy in October 1968, Bob faced the challenging transition to civilian life, carrying the invisible scars of war. It was during this time that he discovered the therapeutic power of working with animals, a realization that profoundly shaped his life and led to his dedication to helping others through the same path. In April 2015, Bob began volunteering as a dog trainer with the Ventura County Chapter of Pets For Vets, laying the foundation for the passion and purpose that eventually became Military Animal Project.
Prior to Pets for Vets, Bob gave his heart & soul in other ways also – he joined the Big Brother program & became a Big Brother to a young man named James. He worked with the Los Angeles County’s Sheriff’s Dept. with his certified therapy dog Paws in their VIDA (Vital Intervention Directional Alternatives) program. Allen Dollens mentioned that he had received feedback from the lead VIDA Sheriff, on how impactful Bob & Paws were in their sessions with the at risk, first-time offender teens in their Santa Clarita, Palmdale & Lancaster stations.
Bob also volunteered for 12 years at the Los Angeles County Dept. Of Animal Care & Control’s Equine Response Team (LACDACCERT). Bob covered home base while his wife Linda went out to evacuate the animals. In addition, he was the Tow Vehicle & Safety Instructor for the LACDACCERT volunteers and LACDACC officers teaching the initial & the refresher classes yearly.
During the last 23 years in California, they bought a home with 10 acres. Bob transformed it into a fantastic horse ranch where they bred, raised & sold Quarter Horses & Andalusians; Linda trained horses & their people; Bob groomed & kept the arena footing enviably ‘perfect’ and they hosted Greg Eliel Horsemanship Clinics for several years. To accomplish all of this Bob started his Bob Horrell Dirt Work Services. He became very well known for his ability to see the future from bare property and was able to develop many others dreams-do-come-true facilities. He kept adding on equipment to meet his customers growing needs and soon became known as “Tractor Bob... the man to go to for solutions”.
As always Bob found ways to give back to his community. Whether it was donating tractor work for local horse events; prepping Carousel Ranch’s property for their yearly charity events; building & maintaining a tractor drag strip; or using his water truck to prep grounds for events. If someone needed help with anything, they knew they could call on “Tractor Bob” to come to their aid. And of course, he always came with free dog training tips!
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Linda, who has been a pillar of strength and a key member of the Military Animal Project family and as Director of our Equine Buddies Program. Also, his brother Dean, sister Annaline, son Rod, daughter Dara, step daughter Cari, grandson Ryder, granddaughter Dryden and step granddaughter Maya.
Our hearts go out to Linda and the Horrell family during this time of immense loss. We extend to them our love, support, and gratitude for the countless ways they have all stood behind MAP - providing Linda and Bob the opportunity to share their talents & gifts that touched the lives of so many veterans in need.
As we grieve this huge loss, let us also celebrate Bob’s legacy—his selflessness, his courage, and his boundless compassion. The work of Military Animal Project will forever be shaped by his vision and dedication. Bob’s spirit lives on in every veteran and service dog partnership that he helped create. Thank you for keeping Bob, Linda, and their family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Our Beloved Warrior is at peace. Bob left our world better for being with us!
