A question often asked by visitors to the animal shelter is “Do you have any dogs?” Unlike many shelters off-Island, our kennel cages are frequently empty. Due to our Massachusetts license, we are only allowed to take dogs from Massachusetts or “contiguous states.” Since we live on a canine-crazy Island there are precious few dogs who need homes. Since January we have found permanent owners for two stray dogs, four surrendered animals and a puppy whose new owner was practically waiting on the doorstep for him. Lisa, the shelter’s director, often knows of an animal whose current owner is willing to keep the dog while a new home is found for him. There are forms here at the shelter which anyone interested in acquiring a dog can fill out. That person will then be contacted if a suitable animal is found. Full disclosure; this writer adopted her beloved dog by this method from the MSPCA eight years ago.

The cat room is emptying out quickly. This week Matteo left us to the dismay of his playmate, Clinger. Sofia and Josephine went to new homes last week. Merri Walkenstein and her daughter, Emily, must still get up during the night to feed the tiny kittens surrendered to the shelter because their mother disappeared just after they were born. Merri took them home so they could receive the round-the-clock care necessary for their survival. When they are big enough she will return them so they can be neutered and spayed and made available for adoption.

The guinea pig cage in the shelter’s lobby has a new occupant. Harrison Ford is a big guy, solid black. All he needs is a large hat and boots to resemble his namesake.

There are not enough words in our language to adequately express the gratitude of all the staff, volunteers and animals for the superior work on the building by the men and women from Habitat for Humanity. Last weekend the shinglers and painters were busily working to complete the outside renovation. Both the shelter and habitat are volunteer organizations. This project is an expression of cooperation, Island style.

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.