- January 29, 2026
Ormond Beach resident Andrea Nurse has entered her dog into the running to become America's Favorite Pet.
Arya came into Nurse's life in 2019. Before adopting her, Nurse was at a time in her life where she was struggling with severe anxiety and depression. Her therapist had been suggesting she adopt a pet, but Nurse was initially hesitant. At 11 years old, her cat had died after being hit by a car, and Nurse said she swore she'd never own another pet to avoid going through that heartbreak.
She eventually caved and headed to the Halifax Humane Society to see an adoptable dog. Then, she saw Arya, a 4-month-old greyhound, Vizsla and American Staffordshire mix.
"It was an instant bond with her," Nurse said. "I wasn't going to adopt her, and when I passed her, I just knew. So it was almost like she was meant to be mine."
Now almost seven years later, Nurse is seeking to share her and Arya's story — and raise awareness of the support pets can provide for mental health — through the America's Favorite Pet contest, hosted by actors Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy. The contest benefits the Progressive Animal Welfare Society, a nonprofit that helps shelter and find homes for cats and dogs, as well as rehabilitate orphaned and injured wildlife.
The winner of the dog contest will be featured on the cover of Modern Dog Magazine and win $10,000.
But it's not about winning for Nurse, she said.
"Arya truly, truly saved my life and I just really want to bring attention to how much love — unconditional love — animals can bring and how much they can help you, not only mentally but physically," Nurse said.
Before she adopted Arya, Nurse said she was close to taking her own life. Arya, who was abused as a puppy, gave Nurse a purpose and helped her regain her sense of safety, which helps her manage her anxiety.
"I knew I needed to take care of her, and in return, the love that she gave me was trifold of what I was giving her," Nurse said. "Everybody's like, 'Oh that's so nice, she rescued a dog,' and I'm like, 'No, she rescued me.'"
Arya is a fun-loving pup with a big bark, Nurse said. She loves the sun. She loves to play, and she loves her little four-legged Maltese brother, Jax, whom Nurse and her husband added to the family in 2023.
If Arya won, Nurse said the interview in Modern Dog Magazine would help raise more awareness about how pets can improve mental health. She would also donate some of the winnings to HHS and other animal organizations in the community.
"This is a therapy," Nurse said. "There's so many dogs and animals that need to be adopted, and of course, it is a huge commitment. ... But I would do it over and over and over again."
To support Arya in the contest, visit https://americasfavpet.com/2026/arya-e681.
