Just like the postal service, neither rain nor snow could keep the pet owners of the Island from the doors of the animal shelter or the West Tisbury emergency services building last Saturday. The rabies clinic was a success despite the weather, which alternated between rain, snow and sleet most of the day. Between Edgartown and West Tisbury, more than 100 animals were vaccinated. A big thank-you to the veterinarians who volunteered their time and talents to this yearly endeavor. Dr. Williams, Dr. Tuminaro and Dr. Ross were on duty in Edgartown, Dr. Sauter and Dr. Buck in West Tisbury. Here in Edgartown, the animals had to wait their turn outside so the vets were handling a lot of soaked fur balls. The entire place smelled like wet dog when the doors finally closed.

A health update on Ticona, the little brown dog who was operated on for bladder stones. He is recovering from surgery very rapidly and adapting to his new family. He is responsible for a big uptick in donations to the Susie Fund maintained by the shelter to provide for such special health emergencies in any of our animals. Our deepest gratitude to all the donors who responded to this request.

Strange events more suitable to Halloween than Easter have been happening at the shelter. Why, for the past few weeks, have all the cats surrendered to us been tuxedos? Another one arrived this week. He is a youngster, just over a year old, named Tui. His white markings are dazzlingly, probably because he has been an indoor cat with no chance to roll in the dirt. He is very affectionate and purrs loudly to let you know he appreciates your attention. He enjoys hanging out with Mickey, another tuxedo who is six years old. Poor thing, he watches all the other cats depart with new owners. He would be happier in a home without small children.

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 or visit animalshelterofmv.org.