Rev. Mark Winters of the Federated Church of Edgartown had never blessed a horse before. That all changed on Saturday, when he blessed five horses, along with over a dozen dogs, two alpacas, one young goat named Arrow and even a gecko.

Jeremy Jones has been working with the Animal Shelter of Martha's Vineyard for several years. He offers complimentary training sessions to people with newly-adopted dogs and leads group puppy classes in the fall and spring.

Responding to the Island's dwindling number of veterinarians, All Pets Medical Center visited the Vineyard earlier in July and gave care to about 20 cats and dogs.

Every two years, the site of the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard’s Garden Party fundraiser changes locations.

We have another adoption to report this week. Mozzie has found her new home.

At the Martha’s Vineyard Animal Shelter’s Celebration of Pets, every dog — and alpaca and horse — had its day.

The Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard will hold a rabies clinic on Saturday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For Lisa Dawley, manager of the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard, every day at the office can be an emotional roller coaster.

Lisa Dawley is the manager of the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard.

She and Gordon Healy usually work together at the shelter, taking caring of the animals and trying to find them permanent homes. But now they alter their schedules so only one person is in the office at a time.

“It’s really quiet here,” Ms. Dawley said. “Usually we have children’s groups come in and special needs groups visiting. Now the animals only get to look at my face and Gordon’s all day long.”

“They are extra cuddly,” she added. “I think they know something is going on.”

The Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard offers pet food, bedding, crates and advice to pet owners, and home-like care for surrendered animals.