In early December, a black-and-white dog named Nova found herself abandoned in a kennel next to a busy highway in North Carolina. A sign next to her read “Free Dog, Free Kennel,” leaving her fate uncertain in the cold.
Discovered by a concerned passerby who posted a plea for help on Facebook, Nova’s plight quickly reached Madison Nygard, a volunteer foster with Pawfect Match Rescue, who wasted no time in coming to the dog’s aid.
“I was on my way. I had seen it a couple of minutes after it had posted it. I got to Nova before the post hit the hour mark,” Nygard recounted.
Upon arrival, Nygard found Nova still confined in her kennel, pondering how the dog ended up abandoned in such a manner. She decided to take immediate action, securing approval from animal control officers to foster Nova through Pawfect Match Rescue.
“I knew that at least if I brought her into the house, she would have food in her belly, and I could physically monitor,” Nygard explained.
Under Nygard’s care, Nova received necessary medical attention, and it became apparent that the dog was accustomed to being in a home. Nova displayed affectionate behavior, quickly adapting to her new surroundings.
“All of the 11 other dogs we brought into this house, we had to teach them how to jump up on the couch. They didn’t just go for it themselves,” Nygard noted, further suggesting that Nova had been living in a home before being abandoned.
Nova soon endeared herself to Nygard’s family members, providing moments of joy and companionship. Nygard’s son, initially concerned about Nova losing her family, quickly formed a bond with the canine, echoing sentiments of friendship.
“My son was very sad when I brought her home because he was like, ‘Oh no, she lost her family. What are we going to do, Mommy?’ I was like, ‘She’s going to be fine. We’re going to take care of her. We’re going to love on her.’ Now, every time he sees Nova, he’s like, ‘Nova Girl, come here. You’re my best friend,'” Nygard shared.
Pawfect Match Rescue’s Monica Horvath confirmed that Nova has a potential adopter, a former judge in the area. The adoption process will likely proceed once Nova’s hold period with the rescue is complete.
Nova’s case is sadly not unique, with Horvath highlighting a concerning trend of animal abandonments, possibly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. She stressed the need for stronger spay-neuter regulations and increased access to low-cost clinics to address the issue.
For those willing to contribute to the cause, Pawfect Match Rescue welcomes donations, both monetary and in-kind supplies. Sharing adoptable pets on social media is also encouraged to raise awareness and support the fight against pet homelessness. Nova’s story serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by rescue organizations and the need for collective efforts to address pet overpopulation and abandonment.
