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.
Rocket, a 3-year-old shepherd mix, can’t seem to catch his break.
He went to the Lawrence Humane Society as a stray in June 2025 and wasn’t reclaimed by a potential owner. Since then, he’s been adopted and surrendered twice.
The first time he was surrendered, Rocket didn’t vibe with the cat in the home. The second time, his new human discovered they were allergic to dogs.
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Bouncing between homes and the shelter has been hard on Rocket, as it would any dog. According to Elina Alterman, chief development officer at the humane society, shepherd mixes also tend to struggle more in kennels, so they’re hoping to find a permanent or foster home for him soon.
Although Rocket needs space from cats, he would rock an environment with another dog. He joins doggy playgroups at the shelter twice a day and gets on famously with male and female dogs of all sizes.
He also “avoids conflict, engages in some brief play (he’s a fan of chase!), and hasn’t shown any aggression,” Alterman said. “So if any potential adopters are looking for a canine companion for their resident dog, Rocket is the perfect guy!”
Rocket has a famously great temperament with the many people who have taken him on Mass Street Mutts outings. At least two volunteers reported that they would take him home in a heartbeat if they could.
“Rocket was a wonderful boy who was well behaved, not very vocal, and as sweet as can be,” another volunteer said. “I cannot believe he doesn’t have a home.”
Many of his adventures have led to walks on Mass Street or by Clinton Lake, but he’s just as skilled at relaxing.
“(While) he enjoys some exercise, interesting sniffs, and sight seeing, he also doesn’t require someone to take him running on a daily basis!” Alterman said. “He is a big fan of snuggles, cuddles, and generally being right up next to you on the couch!”
Rocket is potty-trained and food-motivated. One past foster parent noted that he could get along with any person or dog and that he is gentle with his toys. He’s gone on outings with children ages 5 and 8, and he did great playing with them.
Rocket is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. His adoption fee is $150.
Pet of the Week stars and where they are now
These furry friends could use a foster or forever home:
• Falkner is a Eudora transplant looking for his forever match in Lawrence.
• Squishy-faced Azalea blooms when she’s not cooped up in a kennel.
• Bellamy has an abiding love for humans and a boopable nose.
These pups are living it up in foster care and hope to find their forever families soon:
• Jasper is a pup who’s ready to take a roadtrip or a nap.
• Unflappable brindle shepherd mix Cardi B. is not the drama.
• Flycatcher is a shepherd mix who lives up to his name.
• Ruby and her speckled tongue have gained confidence with a behavioral specialist.
• Kiba is a gentle giant thriving in foster care while waiting for an adopter.
Those interested in adopting Rocket 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 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 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.
