Is anyone in the vicinity of Norton avenue in Vineyard Haven missing a cat? On Tuesday a dark tabby and white male with a white muzzle arrived at the shelter as a stray. Since he is very friendly and affectionate we assume that he must be someone’s pet. Until we find out otherwise we have decided to call him Norton. And we would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone not to feed cats that you assume to be strays as they may have a home, and this can often prevent them from returning home if they like the eats.

Things are quiet in the cat room. Young tuxedo female Maryanne, white and black boy Chaps and old man Milo are coexisting very nicely. And our lovely long-haired, green-eyed Beauty is still lounging in the lobby. With Valentine’s Day this Sunday all four are hoping that someone will come and make them their special Valentine.

Another reminder that on Friday, Feb. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. Tracker Home Décor invites you to join them in their heated tent to celebrate shopping locally and giving back to our community. For the entire month of February they are offering a 20 per cent discount on all in-stock and special order Lee Upholstery. We are happy to announce, and thank them, for the 10 per cent of the proceeds that will be donated to the shelter.

On Feb. 20 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. the Harbor View Hotel will host Pet Portrait Paint Night. Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day with a painting of your favorite four-legged friend. Enjoy delicious bites from Henry’s while your talent shines with the guidance of Paint Corner Art Bar. Ten per cent of ticket sales will benefit the shelter. Purchase your tickets at harbor-view.com.

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.