When Anne-Marie first brought M. Wags into her home, she quickly realized that he wasn’t going to be the cuddly, affectionate dog that most pet owners hope for. Rather, the scrappy mixed breed with a strong personality was a far cry from the soft, loving pup she had envisioned. He avoided human contact and often acted aloof, yet despite his difficult temperament, Anne-Marie loved him unconditionally. She understood that this dog had been through a lot in his life and, perhaps, just needed some time to heal.
A Rocky Start
M. Wags, a 12-year-old Papillon Spaniel mix, had a challenging start in life. When he first entered Anne-Marie Strickland’s home, he was far from the lovable companion that most people expect. The dog had been neglected for most of his early years, and as a result, he didn’t trust easily. He had a fiery temperament and wasn’t shy about expressing his anger. Anne-Marie quickly learned that M. Wags didn’t just need a home; he needed patience and understanding.
Before coming into Anne-Marie’s care, M. Wags had been rescued by a group in Latrobe, Australia. He had been neglected, lacking the necessary medical care and affection that any dog deserves. His early life led him to become withdrawn and at times, aggressive. “He was very angry,” Anne-Marie recalled. And understandably so—he had suffered for a long time.
Known for His Strong Personality
M. Wags quickly became known for his intense personality. Anyone who encountered him, especially veterinarians, knew what they were in for. “He became something of a local legend at the vet’s office,” Anne-Marie said with a smile, recounting how his fiery reactions made him a memorable presence. Despite his behavior, the staff understood that his outbursts were rooted in his trauma and not just an inherent bad temper.
During his vet visits, M. Wags was treated for a skin condition and issues with his damaged teeth. At first, his reactions were harsh—he was terrified and frustrated, understandably. However, as his health improved and he began to feel more comfortable, his behavior began to soften. At home, Anne-Marie noticed that he was becoming more affectionate, curling up on her pillow next to her and following her from room to room.
A Calmer, More Affectionate Companion
Over time, M. Wags showed his affection in his own way. He was never the perfect dog by society’s standards, but for Anne-Marie, he was perfect in his imperfection. She loved him from day one, and no matter his difficult behavior, she never stopped caring for him. He was her companion, and the bond between them grew stronger as he slowly learned to trust her.
Unfortunately, as M. Wags aged, his medical issues began to mount. With his advanced age and worsening health, Anne-Marie faced the heartbreaking decision to have him euthanized. It was a difficult choice, but one she made out of love and compassion for the dog who had finally found peace in her care.
A Peaceful Goodbye
M. Wags passed away peacefully in Anne-Marie’s arms. “It was the best possible end,” she said through tears, comforted by the thought that he had been loved in his final days. “M. Wags is now in doggy heaven,” she added, knowing that he was finally at peace.
M. Wags’s story is a reminder that sometimes, love isn’t about finding the perfect pet—it’s about accepting and caring for a creature who might need a little more patience, understanding, and time. Anne-Marie didn’t expect M. Wags to be the ideal dog; she simply loved him for who he was, scars and all. And in return, M. Wags gave her a loyalty and affection that words can hardly describe. Their bond was a beautiful testament to the power of love and compassion, even in the face of a difficult personality.
