Spring has arrived and that means things are starting to blossom. The residents of the shelter are hoping that means that love will blossom for them as well.

Sweetie lives up to her name. — Alison L. Mead

Everyone at the shelter is in love with Rottweiler Buddy, aka Carl, and is hoping he finds his new forever home soon. He is a smart dog that responds well to training, walks well on a leash, and adores playing ball. His face is exceptionally beautiful, and all he needs is some exercise to build up his muscle tone. At only four years old he is still a youngster and has a long life ahead of him. He’s looking for that special family to share it with. Come in and meet him to see if love blossoms. This is an awesome dog that deserves a special home.

Love has blossomed for our longest resident, Lefty, the big buff and white cat. He will be leaving for his new home soon. And our favorite guinea pig, Hamlette, is leaving for his new digs as well. Congratulation everyone.

Chaps is the shelter cat. — Alison L. Mead

We have three awesome female cats that all have been fantasizing about being loved. Tiger Lily is a five-year-old tabby and white love muffin. She gives kisses and adores being petted. Mary is only one and a beautiful sleek tuxedo. She is very playful and loves to be held. And Sweetie’s name describes her perfectly. She is a lovely dilute calico with striking golden eyes that match the pale orange in her coat. At two years old she’s dreaming of what life could be in a forever home. Could you make any of these girls’ dreams come true?

A beautiful six year-old male cat has recently joined us. He’s solid gray with golden eyes and resembles a Russian blue. His name is Bee Bee and he’s very friendly. Could he be the new friend you’ve been seeking? Once the vet pays him a visit he will be ready to leave with the new family he hopes will find him.

Our other male cat is white and black Chaps, who now resides here as our shelter cat. Stop in and meet the guys, even if it’s just to say hello and give them a little love. And if a special relationship should form with Chaps we might allow him to leave us for a new forever home.

Playful Mary. — Alison L. Mead

The annual rabies clinic will be held on April 1 this year. Hours here at the shelter are from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., and at the West Tisbury fire station from 10 a.m. until noon. The cost is $20 per pet. In order to get a three-year vaccine you must show proof in the form of a previous rabies certificate that your pet has received a rabies vaccination in the past.

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 Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard; the mailing address is P.O. Box 1829, Edgartown, MA 02539 or visit animalshelterofmv.org.