After writing last week about the lack of dogs at the animal shelter, one appeared a few days ago. Scooby is a large red male Doberman. He is three years old and, so far, seems to have a sweet nature. He was surrendered by his previous owners because the family has a new baby and the dog growled in protest. He needs a special owner willing to train him. Dobies are working dogs, never happier than when they are doing a job, whether it be police work or guarding his family. This dog needs work!

The cats come and go. Two of our current residents were adopted from us before. Both of them were returned to us. Quitsa, a big black cat, is destined for new duty as a barn cat. Clinger, aka Winston, is going back to his previous owners with the hope that he has shed his bad habits. The kitten nursed back to health at the shelter after surviving a life-threatening case of fleas is leaving tomorrow. Her name, Hope, is an indication of the shelter’s wish for her when she was found. The big red male cat found as a stray has been neutered and named Pumpkin. He is a love-bug — all purry and preening when given affection. Brownie is a big black cat, now occupying the cat room as a companion to Clinger. It gives me great pleasure to announce that after many weeks here, the shy tabby named Cody has found a forever home.

Work on the structure housing the animal shelter continues under the auspices of Habitat for Humanity. Volunteers with or without building skills are needed to supplement the crew this Friday and Saturday, Sept. 26 and 27. Lunch is supplied so no need to bring your brown bag.

On Sunday, Oct. 12, the Fern and Feather summer camp at Felix Neck celebrates its 50th anniversary from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also, the Walk for Animals takes place on Sunday, Oct. 18.

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.