The Story of Propeller Wags -Molly Akers, Founder
Meet Rocky: The Tail Behind the Tale
From the moment I met Rocky, our American Bulldog, it was love at first sight. He was one big droopy-faced, tail-spinning American Bulldog—and hands down, one of the world’s sweetest dog.
Crazy how certain pets walk into our lives just when we need them most. He lived 14 beautiful years—longer than most bulldogs—but still not long enough for me.
Beyond being a big, goofy puddle o'love, Rocky had a very distinct tail wag every time he saw me: instead of wagging back and forth, he wagged his in a full circle.
Years later, I learned experts call this a "Propeller Wag," a very specific wag saved for very SPECIAL people in the eyes of a dog.
As soon as I learned that fact, I got goosebumps all over.
That was the magic Rocky gave me: no matter what I was going through, he made me feel so SPECIAL, seen and loved every day.
And above all, he showed me that my purpose is to spread opportunities to create those same moments for people of all ages.
As time went on, Rocky's body slowed, but his spirit? Never. That tail of his kept spinning, reminding me every day: he needed and loved me just the way I was. All real, unconditionally.
When he passed, the heartbreak was real. But so was the joy he left behind. Rocky wasn’t “just a pet.” He was family. My steady, slobbery source of comfort and confidence—the original SEL superstar in fur.
So, my daughter Hensley and I did what felt right. We pulled up photos and memories and laughed (and cried) our way through Rocky’s greatest hits and what his uniqueness portrays:
✔ Balancing tennis balls = Stay focused.
✔ Waiting at the window = I’m always here for you.
✔ Standing tall = Be proud of who you are.
✔ Sitting by the lake = Find peace in simple moments.
✔ Surviving hard stuff = Show up with love anyway.
A poem, inspired by Rocky:
We all have a purpose,
We all have a say,
As tough as that can be,
You must brighten
someone's day.
This is Bigger Than a Book or Plush Toy
It’s a feel-good mission wrapped in fur.
It’s a SEL tool for classrooms and counselors.
It’s a gentle nudge for anyone who’s ever needed a reminder: You Matter.
Let’s build a world where every child knows they’re important.
Let’s raise confident, connected humans—one wag at a time.
Let’s make “You Are Special” go viral.
Wag on, friends. The world needs more Rocky.
XO,
Molly
