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Dog Left Near Highway With ‘Free Dog, Free Kennel’ Sign

By: Julie Hunt
Julie Hunt is an avid dog lover and writer for iHeartDogs.com, and has a background as a veterinary technician. She rescued a beautiful former bait dog named Rory.Read more
| July 3, 2024

Unfortunately, many dogs who give their unconditional trust to their owners are left betrayed and abandoned. This narrative centers around Nova, a special dog whose life took a heartbreaking turn when she was deserted in a kennel along a bustling highway, marked only by a “free” sign. This despicable act of abandonment didn’t go unnoticed. A passerby, moved by her plight, quickly shared her situation online, hoping to attract the attention of a rescue group. Madison Nygard, a dedicated volunteer from Pawfect Match Rescue in North Carolina, responded promptly to the call.

Jackson May/Facebook

“I was on my way. I had seen it a couple of minutes after it had been posted. I got to Nova before the post hit the hour mark,” Nygard told People. She was appalled by the sign on the kennel and, after a brief discussion with animal control officers at the scene, resolved to take Nova under her wing. Nygard transported Nova to a local veterinary clinic for a thorough check-up and any necessary treatments. “I knew that at least if I brought her into the house, she would have food in her belly, and I could physically monitor her,” she explained.

Debbie Sandlin/Facebook

Safely in Nygard’s foster care, Nova began to unwind and embrace her new environment. She quickly adapted to her temporary home, expressing her appreciation through her interactions with everyone in the household. Nygard was delighted to witness Nova’s transformation, especially considering her traumatic ordeal.

Man Let His Seven Dogs Slowly Deteriorate in His House of Horrors
Man Let His Seven Dogs Slowly Deteriorate in His House of Horrors

The man responsible is facing felony charges but must never be allowed to own or care for animals again.

While Nova relished her time in foster care, enjoying treats, toys, and the warmth of a loving home, the search for a permanent family was underway. Nygard explored several potential adopters, determined to find the perfect match for Nova.

Debbie Sandlin/Facebook

Although the process of finding Nova a forever home would take some time, the once-abandoned dog was now surrounded by care and affection, a far cry from her days in a lonely kennel on a highway.

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