After a day of shopping for the new school year, Evie and Leslie Benson were on their way home when they saw cars swerving around in the distance. They soon realized that there was a brown dog standing frozen in fear in front of an 18-wheeler truck. The Bensons were scared as they closed their eyes, thinking that they were going to see the dog get hit by the truck. Fortunately, the dog moved out of the way just in time. Witnessing such a close call made Benson’s fight or flight response kick in, and she jumped out of their moving car. The Bensons rescued the grateful dog and took him to safety in the back seat of their car.

Despite being dirty and extremely thin, the puppy’s tail never stopped wagging, a sign of his resilience and hopefulness. Benson couldn’t help but feel heartbroken as he thought about the puppy’s past experiences and how lonely and scared he must have felt. However, the car ride to the shelter was smooth, and the puppy eventually fell asleep in Benson’s arms, causing him to cry tears of relief knowing that the pup was finally safe. The Goochland County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center eagerly welcomed the furry friend and tended to his needs.

Benson came back the following day to see how the little dog was doing. She had doubts about whether he would recognize her, but as soon as she showed up, he leaped into her embrace.

Benson and her mother were both overwhelmed with emotions as they sat in the room with the dog. They couldn’t help but shed tears. As Benson comforted the dog, he curled up in her lap and even cuddled with her while she was lying on the floor. Benson then decided to name him Wags because of his constant tail-wagging.

Benson is in disbelief that several drivers noticed Wags, yet none came forward to assist. Nevertheless, she is grateful that he is now receiving the medical attention he requires. Despite her upcoming departure for college, she takes solace in knowing that Wags will soon find a loving family to call his own.

Benson expressed her sadness about not being able to adopt Wags, but she is confident that the SPCA will find him a loving home due to the numerous calls and messages inquiring about him. She feels very strongly connected to the little dog and believes that he will remember her as well. Benson is grateful for the opportunity to have saved Wags and formed a lifelong bond with him.