Meet Nova.

Amherst, MA · 9 years 11 months · Labrador Retriever (short coat)

Listed since May 12, 2025. Listing dates do not establish shelter intake or continuous availability.

First seen by Goodmorph Oct 30, 2026.

Rescue last updated: Mar 16, 2026

In the shelter’s words

Meet Nova! A spirited nine-and-a-half-year-old Labrador Retriever from Charlotte, NC, whose essence is a radiant beam of affection wrapped in a glossy black coat and powered by the heart of a puppy. Weighing in at a sturdy 75 pounds, Nova is the kind of companion who lights up at the sight of a familiar face—or even a brand-new one! She’s never met a stranger, only future friends, and she’ll happily shower her people with enthusiastic kisses and tail wags that could rival a metronome! Nova is all about joyful connection. Whether she’s bounding after a squeaky llama toy, proudly showing off her “sit” and “shake,” or curling up after a long walk, she brings warmth and laughter to every moment. She thrives on structure—two good walks a day, consistent mealtimes, and a cozy nighttime routine help her feel at peace. Though she’s a big fan of couch snuggles and belly rubs, she’s also got a mischievous streak when it comes to unattended snacks or curious mulch piles. Supervision and a sturdy crate (with a peanut butter Kong, please!) are her recipe for success when left alone. This lovable lady needs to be the one and only furry friend in the home, as she prefers the solo spotlight when it comes to animal companionship. Nova has had past challenges getting along with other dogs and has a bite history involving two incidents with other canines over the years. She does not show aggression toward people—on the contrary, she absolutely adores them—but she thrives in a pet-free environment where she can feel relaxed and secure as the center of attention. Nova is not just looking for a house—she needs a family. One that understands her need for affection, patience, and structure. She would do wonderfully in a home with older children and active caregivers who can keep her engaged, exercised, and loved. She has a sensitive stomach and sometimes experiences stress when left alone, but with the right care, she blossoms into a deeply loyal and affectionate companion. Nova is fully house-trained, crate-trained, spayed, microchipped, and up to date on her vaccinations. If you’ve been hoping for a loyal shadow who will trot beside you on walks and brighten your every day with her loving gaze, Nova may be just the girl for you! Are you ready to welcome Nova into your heart and home, and give this cheerful, kiss-happy pup the spotlight she needs to shine? Contact adopt@joyfulpets.com to learn more!

RescueGroups record ID: 21504566

What this home needs

• Other dogs

  Mentioned by the shelter

  “Feed checkbox: No”

  Not a verified observation — ask staff about the context. A positive shelter report may support search results; it remains unverified and needs confirmation.

  Shelter statement ↗
• Still to ask the shelter

  cats · children · housing and stairs · medical and care. These details are not documented here; unknown does not mean no.

Roster last seen: Nov 1, 2026, 6:11 AM UTC
Goodmorph last synced: Nov 1, 2026, 6:11 AM UTC
Availability confirmed by a person: Not confirmed

Shelter staff and authorized volunteers: add a dated observation

This shared profile remains available for up to 90 days after it leaves the source roster, unless removal is requested sooner. Adoptions and applications are handled by the shelter.