The animal shelter’s building is looking spiffy thanks to Habitat for Humanity and the energetic volunteers who turned out to help paint, shingle and tighten the place up for the winter ahead. Puppy kisses and kitty cuddles to all of you.

Scooby, the red male Doberman, came and went from the shelter in a week. He has more than one yard to call his own and lots of room to run at his new address. Just what this lovely dog deserved.

Quitsa. — Alison L. Mead

All of a sudden carriers full of kittens are arriving at the shelter. Merri is returning three of the six she has nursed since they were newborns. She has found homes for the other three. Now six more young ones have arrived. They are 10 weeks old and bring out the awww factor in all who see them. Our older cats are leaving at a rapid pace. Pumpkin, the marmalade male whose purr could be heard in the hall, has left for a new home in Chilmark. Winston, aka Clinger, returned to his original owners after learning (we hope) more appropriate and hygienic litter box habits at the shelter. What a personality that bob-tailed boy has! Jasper, a shy type, has a new owner who will bring him out of his shell. Quitsa has a reserve placed on him. Hope, the teensy little kitten who almost died of a flea infestation, is enjoying her toys with her new person. We enjoyed her antics during her stay at the shelter. Good luck and nine lives to all.

Rebecca Mayhew is to be commended for rescuing an old tortoise shell cat who was about to be killed. Matted and malnourished, Jade has been groomed and fed by Rebecca and will live out the rest of her life in comfort. Blessings on you both.

Enjoy the autumn landscape and the company of canines by joining the Walk for Animals on October 18 at the dog park behind the Oak Bluffs School. Application blanks and more information can be had by contacting the Animal Shelter. And enjoy the many events planned for the celebration of 50 years of the Fern and Feather camp at Felix Neck on October 12. A fun fall is ahead.

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.