Peggy and Molly: Dog and magpie who became social media stars share sad health update

One half of the beloved social-media duo Peggy and Molly has faced a frightening health scare.

On Friday, Peggy the dog underwent urgent surgery after a vet discovered a cancerous lump near her ribs with her owners revealing it was “definitely something we need to act on quickly”.

Peggy the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Molly the magpie shot to fame in 2020 thanks to their unlikely friendship.

Gold Coast couple Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen rescued the magpie, who quickly became part of the family and formed a close bond with their dog Peggy — and later with puppy Ruby too.

On November 20, the couple posted a video of the trio, alongside an update on Peggy’s cancer diagnosis.

“It still doesn’t feel real. Peggy is the calm, nurturing soul in our little family, the girl who became famous without ever trying, simply by being herself,” they wrote.

“She’s the gentle heart who nurtured Molly like her own and is the best MUM to Ruby, she opened her world (and all of ours) to the unlikely, magical friendship with a brave little magpie.

“She’s taught us so much about kindness, acceptance, patience and unconditional love.”

The couple have documented their day-to-day life online, with the Instagram account now followed by 995,000 people.

Peggy’s health battle follows a turbulent period for the family, who almost lost Molly last year when authorities attempted to seize the bird — a decision later overturned.

Ahead of her surgery, the Gold Coast couple added Peggy is an “old soul” who has comforted countless people through tough days.

“Now it’s our turn to wrap her up in that same love and send her all the strength she needs for tomorrow,” they wrote.

“We’re hopeful, we’re staying positive and we know Peggy, she’s tougher than she looks and has so much more sweetness left to give.”

Followers were quick to send their support, with hundreds wishing Peggy a smooth surgery and fast recovery.

Peggy went in for her procedure on Friday, with the couple later sharing the vet was able to successfully remove the cancer.

“We’re so proud of our brave girl and endlessly grateful to our incredible vet team for taking such good care of her,” the couple posted.

“Thank you all so much for the love, messages and support today.

“It meant more than you know. Our sweet girl is on the couch, snoring softly and on her way to healing.”

Peggy and Molly became household names in March 2024 when the Gold Coast couple were ordered to surrender the magpie amid questions over their permit.

After a year-long battle, the Queensland government confirmed in February 2025 that Molly would not be seized, despite the permit being overturned, the ABC reported.

Queensland Environment Minister Andrew Powell described Molly as “a wild bird,” saying the couple did not need a permit to keep him.

A cartoon based on their extraordinary friendship is currently in the works.