Joy prevailed at the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard this week. Two of our canine residents went to forever homes within days of being delivered to us. Last week a young puggle passed all her tests for health and temperament and walked out the door with an owner who had adopted her sight unseen. Diego, a two-year-old poodle mix, is trying out a new address with a potential owner. Only one dog remains under our roof. Formerly named Major Minor, he has been dubbed Flash by the shelter workers because of his enthusiastic personality. He has great training potential, so says Tom Shelby, a professional dog trainer. He is a medium-sized black Lab/greyhound mix, only about a year old, who was abandoned to fend for himself when his previous owner moved off-Island. Tom will assist in improving his dog manners when he is adopted by his new owner.

More youngsters arrived to fill our cat room this week. Five lively kittens now provide entertainment to the staff and volunteers. They are all males, four months old, two black and white tuxedos and three tabbies. All of them are handsome. We also have a free cat, Princess, who does not look or act her 14 years. She would love to have a lap of her own to snuggle in this Christmas. Harrison Ford, the black boar guinea pig still squeaks from his cage in the lobby of the shelter. He is a cheap pet, only dining on lettuce, carrots and the occasional apple.

If you are looking for something to do this Saturday you can march with the animal shelter contingent during the Christmas parade on Main street in Edgartown. Put festive gear on your dog and yourself and meet the shelter contingent behind the Edgartown School at 10:30 a.m.

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.