Humane Society of the Lakes holds unique tattoo fundraiser

DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (KVRR) – The Humane Society of the Lakes is always kept busy, helping stray animals throughout lakes country.

“We do have a waitlist for surrender animals right now. Strays always come in first because they need placement obviously.”

And in order to help as many animals as they can, they’ve had to come up with some unique fundraisers.

“Spay and neuter your ex, or put their name in a litter box. It got some pretty good publicity, some people weren’t so happy, but people were pretty excited about it too. We made $1500.”

And now they’re offering a chance to get a tattoo and help their animals.

For the artists, Salty Raven Tattoo and Tattoos by Devon, the fundraiser was a no brainer.

“Great way to do a fundraiser. Devon and Cara came to me when we were at another convention and proposed the idea, and I didn’t even hesitate to say yes, I’m on board, I will help you.”Froelich says that his set up isn’t that different then at his shop.

“I’ve worked in big shops, I’ve worked in small shops. In fact, I’ve worked in spaces smaller than we’re in today. It’s all a matter of getting that person in your chair to do that artwork.”

Froelich has been tattooing for over a decade. And the reason he got into it? Peer pressure.

“My buddies all said why don’t you get a tattoo kit, you’re good at art, we want tattoos from you. And I said no thank you. And they ordered me a kit, and it showed up at the house.”

Over that time, he has seen tattoos become more acceptable, and the clientele change.

“The older ladies even at Walgreens when I walk in, you’re getting a good response from them. And they’re coming in and getting tattooed. It’s all walks of life, all ages.”

And that’s part of the reason that the Humane Society is hoping that this fundraiser can be a success, and become a yearly fixture in their calendar.

The tattoos are $100, and you can pay extra for color. The fundraiser will run from 10 AM to 11 PM Friday and Saturday, and from 10 AM to 6 PM Sunday. 40 percent of the money collected will go to helping animals in the lakes region.