The Island summer social season got off to a good start for the animal shelter last week. After Father Nagle blessed the assembled dogs and their owners at the Harbor View Hotel, Clifford the Big Red Dog headed up the parade accompanied by the merry sound of James Joyce’s bagpipes. A good time was had by all. The shelter thanks all the participants and special gratitude to the Harbor View for the perfect venue, and Father Nagle and Mr. Joyce for bringing their special skills to the occasion.

We still have two of the three sister Shih Tzus. One was adopted, but Brownie and Oreo are both available. They are a little over six years old and cute as all get out. Audrey, the wonder dog, has been spotted at the dog park with her new owner. They both seemed pleased with each other. Meanwhile, a two-year-old chocolate Lab was surrendered and immediately adopted. Talk about a quick turnaround, he never spent a single night in the shelter.

Mickey the cat was finally adopted. We are mystified that he stayed with us for so long, sweet boy that he is. Now we have a small tuxedo female, Rosie, who is being spayed this week, and her son Mojo, an even smaller version of his mom. Jessica, the tuxedo cat with unusual brown eyes; Caitlin, the she that was thought at first to be a he due to seriously matted fur; and Skipper, the sad shy male are all still with us.

Another guinea pig is living in his cage in the shelter lobby. He is part brown and part black. He is very young and has been named Austin.

If you have not received or answered your invitation to the Animal Shelter Garden Party on Monday, June 29, hurry up. It is quite the glamorous event held in a spectacular seaside garden. Both a live and silent auction will be held. Call the shelter for more information.

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.