Pet of the Week puts a spotlight on a furry friend who is available for adoption at the Lawrence Humane Society at the time of the article’s publication. According to ASPCA, dog adoption numbers are down nationwide, which adds additional strain on shelters that are already struggling to accommodate high volumes of animals. Lawrence Humane is no exception.
Through Pet of the Week, readers can learn about a pup before they visit the shelter. The featured furball is selected by shelter staff members, who provide all details on the animal’s personality and history.
Three-year-old husky Lilya has many achievements to her name. She can slam down a pup cup with the best of them. She’s appropriately boisterous during daily doggy playgroups. She’s a whiz on a leash and has darling markings on her nose.
One thing that can never be said is that she’s a misanthrope.
“Lilya is SUPER friendly with people,” said Elina Alterman, director of development and communications for the Lawrence Humane Society. “She truly loves everyone and anyone and is the most human-social dog you’ll ever meet.”


Lilya was surrendered a month and a half ago because she didn’t jive with one of the other dogs in her home. Though she ideally shouldn’t live with another female dog, she does well with male dogs. Shelter staff can facilitate any meetings between potential pup siblings while providing behavioral support.
She’s popular with Mass Street Mutts volunteers. Recently, one of her human companions said, “Lilya is an angel. Very friendly with people, responsive to her name, great in the car, and great on the leash! She was a joy to take on an adventure!”
Lilya is house- and kennel-trained, in addition to being spayed, vaccinated and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150.

Past pup update
Kiba, a gentle giant and certified good boy, is still looking for a forever home. Shaka Khan is ready to love a family with kids.
Those interested in adopting Lilya can email the Lawrence Humane Society’s adoptions team at adoptions@lawrencehumane.org or call 785-843-6835.
People can also go straight to the shelter at 1805 E. 19th St. to meet her. The Humane Society is open to potential adopters from noon to 6 p.m. every day. People can also sign up for the Mass Street Mutts program to get to a know a dog before adopting.
Potential foster parents can email the Foster Coordinator at foster@lawrencehumane.org and fill out an application here. The Lawrence Humane Society provides foster parents with all necessary supplies and food, and they cover bills for medical care, behavioral support and more.
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Wulfe Wulfemeyer (they/them), reporter and news editor, has worked with The Lawrence Times since May 2025. They can be reached at wulfe@lawrencekstimes.com.
Read their complete bio here. Read their work for the Times here.
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