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.
If you mix the image of a saddle-worn rancher with the goofy grin of Scooby-Doo, you’d get something close to Cowboy.
Cowboy is an 8-year-old Labrador mix who is the shelter’s third longest-stay animal at 101 days without an adopter or foster. His owner surrendered him in March because they had health complications.
This buckaroo has a first-rate pair of tiny airplane ears.
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“And when he’s really relaxed and happy, he gets this derpy look on his face,” wrote Elina Alterman, the shelter’s chief development officer. “He kind of looks like a cartoon dog drawn by a young child come to life!”
For folks trying to beat the heat, Cowboy is the perfect companion. He loves the water and lounging in a kiddie pool. He also adores playing with toys, but is gentle with them.
“Cowboy truly has the perfect energy level,” Alterman wrote. “As an 8 year old dog, he doesn’t have the high energy of a puppy, but he’s not ready to hang up his spurs either.”
Mass Street Mutts volunteers have enjoyed taking him on walks and then zonking out on the couch.
“It has been noted that he fell asleep during Pride and Prejudice,” Alterman wrote. “Maybe Westerns are more to his taste?”
The shelter doesn’t know how he handles cats since he’s never lived with one, but he hasn’t reacted to cats he’s met on outings.
Cowboy has successfully lived with dogs before but has been selective about his companions at the shelter. He needs to meet any potential doggy siblings, which shelter staff can facilitate.
This sweetie was hit by a car, which left him with emotional scars, though no physical ones. He’s anxious about getting into a car but will ultimately settle.
“And he’d rather not walk on streets where lots of cars are whizzing by at high speeds, he prefers a nice quiet neighborhood!” Alterman wrote.
Cowboy doesn’t need to be kenneled. He won’t destroy things if he’s left home alone and knows commands like “sit” and “come.” He’s also great on the reins, and doesn’t pull the leash during a walk.
Cowboy is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. His adoption fee is $75.
Pet of the Week stars and where they are now
Once-feral Lulu’s ultimate comeback story is complete. She’s settling wonderfully into a new adoptive home.
These furry friends could also use a foster or forever home:
• Phineas radiates short king energy.
• Happy-go-lucky Sammy needs someone to raise his spirits.
• Bob is a loving low rider and social butterfly.
These pups are living it up in foster care and hope to find their forever families soon:
• Big-hearted Axel knows he’s the best boy.
• Pup cup fiend Miley is ready to be a KU tour guide.
• Dynamic doggy duo Charli and Bo share one soul.
• Rocket is an out-of-this-world snuggler.
• Unflappable brindle shepherd mix Cardi B. is not the drama.
• Fly is Renaissance dog — recently, shelter staff have learned that he loves living with cats.
Those interested in adopting Cowboy can email the Lawrence Humane Society’s adoptions team at [email protected] or call 785-843-6835.
People can also go straight to the shelter at 1805 E. 19th St. to meet him. 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected].
Read their complete bio here. Read their work for the Times here.
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Jacob Rice / Lawrence Times
Jacob Rice / Lawrence Times
