It’s been a wonderful holiday season for most of our shelter residents. Guinea pig, Maple, left Christmas Eve and was a happily received present. And brothers, Magic and Larry, have moved on to a forever home together.

The shelter has had another successful year finding homes for the homeless animals of the Island. In 2018 we placed 63 animals — 45 cats, 12 dogs, four Guinea pigs and two rabbits, in permanent homes. During the summer we had four litters of kittens and seven orphans that were all taken in by the nursing mothers. Additionally two of those litters were rescued from an abandoned home, and one of the other orphans was brought back from death’s door.

We still have three residents praying for a forever home before the new year. Holly has been residing at the shelter for way too long, over a year. She’s a six year-old tabby that came to us from an unfortunate situation and needs a good deal of personal space. Her ideal home would be with someone who can let her have free rein, leave her alone, and have the patience to wait until she feels comfortable enough to seek you out. However, she does ask for affection. She has come around quite a bit during her time here but she would be much happier, and progress more quickly, in a permanent home where she feels safe. Holly might also be happiest as an only cat.

Bella is a five year old, dilute calico. She’s a good size girl who has recently lost a lot of weight. She’s recently joined our little family so her temperament is still being assessed.

Guinea pigs love parties and Onyx is hoping to find a family that will include him in holiday parties; he would be delighted to sample the crudité at the party. Onyx is an Abyssinian with a long, shiny black coat, the friendliest Guinea Pig in the world. He’s been hand raised, loves to interact with people and actually comes to the side of the cage for attention and snacks. Even if you’re not in a position to take him home you can still stop in and visit. Piggies need affection as much as any creature.

The next nail clinic will be held in mid-January, date to be determined, and takes place at the shelter from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. The suggested donation is $15. And we are taking jewelry donations throughout the year for our Summer Garden Party.

With the cold weather upon us, be mindful of the temperature if you plan on leaving your dog in a car for any length of time.

We still need adult volunteers to answer the phone and meet and greet people on Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoons. If interested give us a call or stop by for more information. And if anyone needs any crates or dog food, please stop in to pick some up. We have an abundance of both and are happy to share.