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.
Tipsy needs a foster parent or adopter who can help her decompress and live her best snugglebug life, as she’s struggling with anxiety and stress at the shelter.
This 3-year-old pit bull mix has been dealt a rough hand. Tipsy’s former owner kept her as an outdoor dog and then abandoned her, according to shelter staff.
She’s struggled to adjust to kennel life at the shelter, surrounded by so many sights, smells and noises.
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At her best, Tipsy is affectionate, cuddly, calm and snuggly, per volunteer descriptions. Though she can always go for a cuddle on the couch, Tipsy also enjoys traipsing around the University of Kansas and downtown Lawrence.
Unfortunately, that’s not her everyday reality.
“Tipsy is really struggling at the shelter and her anxiety is increasing more and more each day,” Elina Alterman, the shelter’s chief development officer, wrote. “Staff have noted that she’s unable to settle down, is excessively barking, and is hurting herself by repeatedly pawing/banging at the kennel door and walls.”
Tipsy needs to meet the entire household of a potential adopter. Tispy can’t live with cats. She’s lived successfully with kids from infant to teenager, but she can be fearful of men.
Tipsy has also lived with dogs and used to socialize during the shelter’s doggy playgroups, but she’s been less outgoing as her stress has increased.
That’s no different from humans, Alterman said.
“When I’m super stressed, I don’t want to be around others either,” she said.
Tipsy has allergies, which are common in pit bulls. They largely affect her paws, but allergy meds make it manageable.
“Tipsy was perfect and so sweet!” said one volunteer who took her on a Mass Street Mutts outing. “She’s fun outdoors and likes car rides. Loves treats. Likes to splash in water! She is a cuddly, sweet dog who likes to nap.”
Tipsy is spayed, vaccinated and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150.
Pet of the Week stars and where they are now
These furry friends at the shelter could use a foster or forever home:
• Smokey the pit bull is a ‘dainty’ playmate
• Chewy lives up to his name with bone toys, not furniture.
• Moilie is seeking her knight in shining armor.
• From feral to trusting, Lulu has the ultimate comeback story.
These pups are living it up in foster care and hope to find their forever families soon:
• Turnip is an arthritic, easygoing angel.
• Scientists are unsure if Waylon is a canine or a snuggle bug.
• Elf the dog-shark loves going belly-up for tummy rubs.
• Cowboy is fixin’ to find his partner for the road.
• Happy-go-lucky Sammy needs someone to raise his spirits.
• Dynamic doggy duo Charli and Bo share one soul.
• Unflappable brindle shepherd mix Cardi B. is not the drama.
Those interested in adopting Tipsy 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 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 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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