Among the Christmas cards and appeals for donations clogging our mailboxes this time of year is a letter from the Animal Shelter asking for your support. Many pet lovers contribute to us throughout the year, sometimes just by bringing a bag of kitty litter or a package of paper towels. Whatever form your generosity takes, the humans and homeless pets at the Animal Shelter send each and every one of you endless gratitude.

Speaking of Christmas, Christmas in Edgartown is taking place this weekend. In addition to admiring the decorations and shopping for friends and family, a Christmas parade will march down Main street at 11 a.m. on Saturday. The Black Dog is sponsoring the pet parade section and inviting any leashed animal to march with them. They are asking for a $5 donation to the Animal Shelter in return for enjoying being a part of this annual celebration. Call 508-627-6412 for more specifics.

The sweet and friendly cocker spaniel mix, Jackie, is back at the shelter. He would love to have his own hearth to rest by this Christmas. The adorable bichon frisee named Jackson is still available for anyone who has room for a small dog. He is still residing with his owner, who is reluctantly surrendering him for adoption due to changed family circumstances. Call the Animal Shelter at 508-627-8662 to make an appointment to see this little white dog.

There is good news this week. We love to see an owner reunited with his missing pet. Grant, a big black tomcat, was claimed by his original owner who was happy to get him back. A good scolding was probably given to him along with kitty treats in gratitude for his safe return. The small black kitten found at Katama is also at her own home with her sister. Both Sydney and Homer are now safe and sound with new owners. The tabby and white male cat found at Katama is still hoping his person will come to get him. He is microchipped so someone cared about him enough to do that, but unfortunately, did not register that chip online so the shelter cannot contact the owner.

Alas, Gizmo the guinea pig is still singing in his solitary cage. The silky black female, Linda, and the affectionate male tuxedo, Tux, have been residents in the cat room for several months now. Maybe Santa will bring a new owner to each of them. The Animal Shelter is a safe haven for all the Island pets who would otherwise be at the mercy of the elements. Remember them when choosing a site for your donations this Christmas.

Shelter hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The shelter is closed Sunday and Monday. The telephone number is 508-627-8662. Contributions are always gratefully accepted; the shelter is funded solely by donations. Please make checks out to The Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard; the mailing address is P.O. Box 1829, Edgartown MA 02539.