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.
Petunia, a 3-year-old pit bull, is ready for a life like a bed of roses, and she’s the pup for someone wanting an emotionally attached companion.
She came to the Lawrence Humane Society three months ago as a stray and no one came to claim her. So far, she’s been living it up in foster care, where her human says that she’s a gentle sweetie who could use some patience, affection and snuggly nap spots.
“Petunia is a sweet soul with a big heart and an even bigger cuddle quota,” her foster parent told the shelter. “She loves people, she just needs a little time to warm up, and she gets along great with other dogs who prefer a calm, co-existing vibe. Once she feels comfortable, she’ll love-bomb you with her whole body and endless snuggles.”
As an extra comfort measure, she loves to carry her favorite stuffed toys and her around in her mouth without destroying them.
According to her foster parent, Petunia is almost fully potty trained and can stay in the kennel all night. She’ll get a burst of energy when she’s let out, and she is learning to calm her jumping habits.
“(She) just wants to be as close to her people as possible!” her foster parent said.
On Mass Street Mutts outings, Petunia adored meandering walks by the lake, where she was a complete doll on her leash and in the car. Volunteers called her loving, curious and shy.
Petunia is spayed, vaccinated and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150.
Pet of the Week stars and where they are now
Last week’s Pet of the Week, Eanid, was scooped up by her Wednesday Addams over the weekend.
These furry friends are still waiting for their next steps in life:
• Shelter staff say Buddy, a bit of a wallflower, is still in a desperate situation waiting for adoption or fostering while at the shelter.
• Spray cheese-loving Ricky Ricardo and gentle giant Brutus have both moved from the shelter foster homes, where they are waiting for their soulmates.
• Flycatcher, the shepherd mix who lives up to his name, is waiting to be adopted at the shelter.
• Ruby and her speckled tongue are in a foster home, waiting for a forever family.
• Kiba has been living it up in foster care, where he has been able to play with other dogs. He should still be the sole dog in the home, but has increased comfort levels with his fellow canines. He is looking for an adopter.
Those interested in adopting Petunia 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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Molly Adams / Lawrence Times
