On behalf of the board of directors, employees, volunteers and especially the animals of the Martha’s Vineyard animal shelter, I want to express our thanks to the children of Miss Lani’s art classes for Operation Santa Paws. The children made gift baskets containing handmade dog and cat toys, painted canvases and dog and cat treats donated by Good Dog Goods. The baskets were presented to the animals at the shelter on Saturday, Dec. 16 in plenty of time for the holidays.

What is truly remarkable about this project is that it shows the young people the importance of the shelter the need for care of the animals and volunteer participation. We sincerely hope their efforts will be infectious to the adults and something the children will take with them into adulthood.

Our gratitude is also extended to Miss Lani for providing a wonderful appreciation of and for the animals of the shelter.

Duncan Ross

Oak Bluffs