Nova is the kind of dog who makes you feel like the most important human in the world. At just 2 years old and 31# (with a couple to spare), this Australian Shepherd mix is a bright, affectionate companion who brings equal parts joy and curiosity to every day. Her foster family calls her Wiggle Butt and Busy Bee, and both nicknames fit! She greets her people with a full‑body shimmy. She loves gathering toys in a heap or surveying her yard like the world’s most dedicated neighborhood watcher. Enthusiastic, inquisitive, attentive, silly, and undeniably loving, Nova is happiest when she’s with her person. She adores belly rubs, grooming sessions, and any adventure that lets her sniff, explore, and observe. When she’s excited, she pops up on her back feet and “dances,” pawing the air like she’s conducting her own little parade. Nova’s ideal family is active, fair, and engaged… people who enjoy regular walks, appreciate a smart dog and share her joy for life. She has a medium energy level: ready for outings, but also content to chill inside once her needs are met. She’d do well with respectful, gentle kids, and she has previously lived with both children and cats. Nova could be an only dog or share her home with a friendly pup. She will thrive with humans who provide calm leadership, clear expectations, and steady routines. She listens beautifully when spoken to with confidence, and responds best to patient people who don’t rely on loud voices. She can be shy with men at first, but kindness and gentle words earn her trust. Nova is housebroken, crate‑trained, and who loves taking in every scent and sound, though she doesn’t exactly walk on leash in a straight line yet. She’s good in the car too. Continued leash work and basic obedience classes will help her shine even brighter. Given the opportunity, she will try to keep her person all to herself, but respects boundaries when they’re consistently reinforced. If you’re looking for a devoted, smart, affectionate companion who will make every day a little more fun, Nova is ready to wiggle her way into your life. She promises to make you laugh at least 3 times a day! APPLY to adopt her at hoabcr.org/how-to-adopt. Nova is being fostered in Minnetrista, MN. Her adoption fee is $450 + MN sales tax. She is spayed, microchipped, and up to date on age-appropriate vaccines. Upon adoption, all of our dogs go to their new homes with a collar and harness, leash, starter food, blanket, favorite toys & treats. They are current on flea/tick and heartworm prevention. As a foster-based rescue, we do not have a central facility to visit. Meet and greets with specific dogs are arranged once your adoption application (not an inquiry through Petfinder) has been received, processed, and approved. We are located in Minnesota and adopt to an area 400 miles from Minneapolis/St. Paul.