The cat population at the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard increased by one this week. And he is a large addition. Tipping the scale at 15.8 pounds, Lucky is a big boy. He is a handsome orange cat who would make a purring lapful for a new owner. His previous owners had to surrender him because of allergies — theirs, not the cat’s. He is currently living in the intake room, having just been seen by the vet and thankfully pronounced a fine figure of a feline.

Daisy, a big gray female, Tortellini, with tortoise shell markings, O.B., she of the calico coat and disdain of other cats, and the old lady of the group, Penny, are awaiting permanent housing.

The squeaky guinea pig named Steve was adopted soon after being surrendered. He went to a new home in his decorative cage. We hope he enjoys a life filled with carrots and apples (his favorite) for many years.

Mark your calendars! The shelter’s rabies clinic is scheduled for Saturday, April 5. For those pet owners who are unfamiliar with this annual event, volunteer vets are here to immunize your animal. This year the price has been raised to $20, still a bargain. If your pet has been previously immunized and you bring the certificate attesting to that, he/she can get a shot good for three years. All cats must be brought to the shelter in carriers and dogs must be leashed. The clinic begins at 10 a.m. and continues until 1 p.m. Please do not assemble in front of the doors before 10 a.m. as the shelter personnel and the doctors will be busy readying the facility. If the event proceeds as it has in previous years, there will be a shorter wait for those who come later than for the early birds. The latter will not be admitted until 10 a.m. in any event.

The shelter is happy to see the children and parents return from vacation. The cats love visitors and would be happy to see you when the shelter is open.

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.