Puppy Love documentary: A Heartfelt Tale of Resilience and Hope

This film had me at “Woof.” Puppy Love is a grass-roots documentary that tells an intimate and deeply personal story with a message that resonates on a universal level.

Writer-director Gail Gilbert shares the emotional journey that began when her beloved puppy, along with its littermates, was suddenly struck by paralysis.

“The vets told us to put them down,” Gilbert recalls, recounting the devastating moment when she and her family were faced with a life-or-death decision.

Refusing to give up, the documentary chronicles an extraordinary effort to save these puppies. From unconventional treatments like Chinese herbs to homemade remedies such as chicken soup, every possible avenue was explored to nurse the paralyzed dogs back to health. Through moments of doubt, heartbreak, and hope, Puppy Love captures the determination to fight for life even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Puppy Love

Puppy Love is more than just a movie about dogs,” Gilbert emphasizes. “It’s a testament to the power of the human spirit—the ability to push through the seemingly unconquerable.” Beyond the touching story of these puppies, the film explores themes of resilience, love, and the lengths we go for those we care about, offering inspiration for both animal lovers and those who have faced their own struggles.

Produced by Cerise Films, based in Chicago, Puppy Love is Gail Gilbert’s debut feature film. Having honed her skills in Chicago’s advertising scene, Gilbert has worked with top agencies like Leo Burnett, FCB, and Burrell, bringing her creative vision to major TV campaigns. With this documentary, she pivots from the world of advertising to bring a more personal and heartfelt story to the screen.

The film will be showcased in a special screening on Saturday, October 26th with Director Gail Gilbert and canine star Scout in attendance. As part of the event, representatives from Chicagoland Lab Rescue will be present to discuss their ongoing work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding loving homes for dogs in need. To support this cause, a portion of the ticket sales will be donated to Chicagoland Lab Rescue, further underscoring the film’s commitment to helping dogs in distress.

Puppy Love screening
October 26th, 2pm
The Wayfarer Theaters
1850 Second Street
Highland Park, Illinois

Early viewers have been moved by the emotional weight of Puppy Love. “An AMAZING story,” said Margie Gordon, a dog enthusiast and supporter of Lab rescue efforts. “It moved me to tears, made me laugh, and the outcome made my heart smile.”

Warning: Get ready to be moved when you watch this trailer. The Reel Chicago team gives this film 2 paws up!

Puppy Love is also available on demand on Amazon Prime and other streaming platforms.

For more information on future screenings and to find out how you can make a donation to Chicagoland Lab Rescue, visit here.


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