Getting inked for Muskoka's pets.
PERMANENT PAWS. Jonathan Pignataro tattoos a pair of dog paws on the wrist of Stephanie Grant as part of a fundraiser for the Muskoka and Parry Sound Independent Animal Rescue.
Roland Cilliers
BRACEBRIDGE - There’s clearly a lot of love for cats, dogs and tattoos.
On Sunday, a Tattoo Shoppe fundraiser in support of Muskoka & Parry Sound Independent Animal Rescue had a long line of people waiting in the hot sun for the chance to get inked.
For just $20 patrons could pick from a variety of popular tattoo designs with the proceeds of the event going to support the charity.
Jonathan Pignataro, owner of the Tattoo Shoppe in Bracebridge, said he took part in the fundraiser to help out the pets and pet owners of the region.
“I have four pets at home, its like a little petting zoo in my living room all the time. I figure I’ve got a (connection) with animals. If I could have a farm, I would have rescues and tons of dogs and cats,” said Pignataro. “Not enough people do out of the box ideas with fundraisers.”
Available tattoo designs included paw prints, Canadian flag variations, bird silhouettes and animal skulls.
By the end of the day close to 100 people had been tattooed.
Organizers said they were very happy by the support the event received. Tattoo enthusiasts were lining up outside the store 30 minutes before the event even began.
The Muskoka & Parry Sound Independent Animal Rescue helps animals find homes. They provides free training tips and have a feral cat spay and neuter release program.
For more information on the Muskoka & Parry Sound Independent Animal Rescue visit their website at www.mpsiar.com.