Today, I want to highlight a truly special adopter and an equally special Bulldog.
Swagger was returned to rescue due to anxiety issues that made it challenging for him to thrive in a home with young kids. But Swagger’s story didn’t end there. Enter Courtney — a compassionate and experienced adopter who has worked with dogs facing anxiety before. She was willing to give Swagger a chance and see beyond his challenges.
Courtney drove all the way from Louisiana to bring Swagger home. But, of course, the journey wasn’t without its bumps. Swagger absolutely loved his hotel room and made it clear he wasn’t ready to leave. It took some time and patience, but eventually, Swagger warmed up to his new mom, and leaving the comfy hotel bed started to feel like a better idea.
Now, several months into his new life, Swagger has found his place in Courtney’s home. There are plenty of snuggles and loving moments, but there are still tough days. Swagger continues to struggle with his anxiety — he’s chewed up a new chair, taken on the vacuum cleaner, and even claimed the bottom of a closet as his personal ‘crate.’ Storms are especially stressful for him, and with the unexpected snowstorm in the South, his anxiety level was tested.
But despite all of this, Courtney has never given up on Swagger. There are days when it would be easy to return him to rescue, but she continues to work with him. She rewards his good behavior, celebrates the victories, and even shares tacos with him when they make it through a tough day together.
Swagger’s new name is Waxillium Ladrian, inspired by The Mistborn Saga by Brandon Sanderson, but he’s affectionately called Wax most of the time.
Swagger’s journey hasn’t been perfect, but thanks to Courtney’s unwavering love and dedication, Wax is finally where he belongs — in a home that truly understands him.
A huge thank you to Courtney for loving Wax through the hard days and being his champion.
Welcome home, Wax! You’re one loved and very lucky boy!
12/13/24 Update: Please welcome Swagger back to rescue! He writes: I’m back in rescue, but let’s call it what it really is—”I was on vacation, and now I’m home.” Honestly, I loved my adoptive family, and they loved me too. But sometimes, I get nervous, and it takes me a while to settle down.
My family had a couple of boys who were a lot of fun and they knew how to calm down and take it easy when playtime was over. Me? Well, my “off switch” seems to be broken sometimes. I’m physically fit and love to run. I never mean to knock anything over—sometimes, it just happens if someone or something’s in my way.
What I’m looking for is a family who is patient and understands that I get a little anxious at times. I don’t know why I’m so nervous, but loud noises like car horns, trash trucks, and storms make me really scared. I find comfort in my crate, but what I really need is a family that has experience with nervous dogs.
I’m a great guy, my fur is soft like velvet, and I have a heart of gold. My perfect family will be a calm, child-free home that can help me feel safe and secure.
It would mean the world to me if I could be home for Christmas. That would truly be the best gift ever!
At age 2 Swagger told himself the same thing every morning: I will not chase the cows and I will not kill the chickens. But sad to say those two things were just too tempting for Swagger. The highlight of his day was watching the feathers fly and making the cows run from him. To Swagger it was fun, to his family not so much!
Swagger joins rescue healthy, active and as cute as can be. He really did not intend to upset his family, he just thought it was a game.
Swagger is super friendly to all dogs and cats. Swagger’s perfect home will be a suburban home, free from farm animals. In the coming days he will be looking over the applications looking for a family that loves a young, beautiful brindle bulldog.
5/16/23 Update: If you look close, you may be able to see foster boy Swagger.
He writes: I am pretty scared of thunderstorms and that is what is going on around here right now. I am new at the foster home, also. That is a lot for me to handle.
Foster Mom said not to worry about it. As long as I felt good in the bathroom, it was OK with her. I was doing pretty good with the other pups until the rain, thunder and lightning started. Then I needed to find a safe place.
From the foster momma: There’s so much for dogs to understand when they move into a new place with a new family. He is really doing well. I am just letting him be where he feels safe right now. Sometimes, fostering is just that, waiting until the fear goes and the friendship starts to build. We’re looking forward to that happening soon. And a little sunshine never hurts, either.
7/5/24 Update: I know you cannot believe how much better looking I am now! And I was a hunk even before I got a little weight on my bones.
Foster Mom calls me “Sugar” and “Honey.” I love taking afternoon naps and going outside for short periods of time (it is really hot out there!). I am potty trained and will stare at the door until Foster Mom gets the idea.
I do NOT like vacuum cleaners ~ it’s the noise that gets to me. I also think it might hurt Foster Mom. But I can go into another room and be OK about it.
I have tons of energy and can bounce around when I get excited, and I am super excited about reviewing some approved applications! I can’t wait to meet my next family.
7/18/24 Update: Hey there, it’s Swagger here, ready to strut into my next home!
Remember that skinny dog hiding in the bathroom during storms? That was me. But look at me now—buff and brave, and I’ve figured out that thunder and lightning are no match for a cozy kennel with the door open.
I’m a playful guy who adores chew toys and my furry foster siblings. I thrive on attention and love children, though toddlers might find my size a bit intimidating. Treats? Oh, you bet I love ’em!
