More than $16,000 was raised for the benefit of the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard last week at a West Tisbury fundraiser.

Held in the garden of the late Nina Schneider, the party was hosted by James and Holly Coyne, the new owners of the Schneider house and its award-winning garden. More than 100 guests strolled the garden grounds trying to decide which of the eight cats, two dogs and a guinea pig might be appropriate for their home. Pictures of the animals were displayed

A highlight of the afternoon was the auctioning off by Trip Barnes of a painting by Meg Mercier, an Edgartown seasonal resident, done in the garden during the party. Donald Davis of Chilmark was the high bidder.

Dukes County manager Russell Smith spoke on the development of the new shelter which replaces the longtime MSPCA-supported shelter since, in May, the MSPCA withdrew from the Vineyard. Mr.Smith stressed the need for private donations so the new organization can continue its work.

At the party, some animal loverswho had lost beloved pets electedto buy $100 memorial bricks for outside the shelter; others chose to fulfill such “wishes” on the shelter wish list as providing a microscope, windows, fencing, and a sign. It remains in Edgartown at the same location as its predecessor.

Contributions may be made to the Animal Shelter of Martha’s Vineyard, P.O. Box 190, Edgartown 02539.