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.

Chewy won’t say no to gnawing on a tennis ball, squeaky toy or Nylabone, but he also won’t replicate the effects on home furnishings if home alone and unkenneled.

This 5-year-old Lab mix was surrendered to the shelter because of his owner’s health. He’s been waiting for his new home for 200 days.

He’s on anti-anxiety meds because he struggles at the shelter, but he’s goofy, playful and curious when he gets to be out in the world.

Volunteers who have taken him for outings are rooting for his happy ending.

“He just seemed to genuinely enjoy everything we did, from meeting people, to the car ride, to the bone in his backpack, to a pup cup,” one volunteer said. “He was sweet from the start but really opened up even more as the day went by and I hope Chewy can soon have his own family, bed, and bones.”

Another volunteer took him to an independent senior living facility to brighten residents’ day.

“Chewy did so good and let them pet him and sat while we talked!” the volunteer said. “… I was so proud of him!”

Chewy is a smart cookie who knows commands like sit, stay, lay down and come — and he’s keen to learn more.

He needs to meet any potential canine siblings and can’t live with cats. He would do best with kids ages 10 or older, but he has successfully lived with small children in the past. He’s house- and kennel-trained.

This good boy is also neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. His 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:

• From feral to trusting, Lulu has the ultimate comeback story.
• Moilie is seeking her knight in shining armor.
• 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:

• Frito is a primo ‘fun-sized best friend’ for a family.
• 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.
• Big-hearted Axel knows he’s the best boy.
• Dynamic doggy duo Charli and Bo share one soul.
• Unflappable brindle shepherd mix Cardi B. is not the drama.

Those interested in adopting Chewy 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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