In Fort Wayne, Indiana, the animal rescue group Wags and Wiggles has partnered with White Fox Tattoo Studios for a special event to cover rising medical bills for saved pets. Set for Saturday, August 23, 2025, from noon to 7 p.m., this second-year fundraiser aims to ease the financial strain from vet care while bringing the community together through fun activities and prizes.
Event Details and What to Expect
The gathering at White Fox Tattoo Studios promises a mix of excitement and support for animal welfare. Organizers plan to draw crowds with games, food, drinks, and a raffle featuring tattoos and other items as prizes. Last year’s event raised key funds, and this one builds on that success to help more animals in need.
Attendees can join in without any entry fee, making it easy for families and pet lovers to show up and contribute. Donations will go straight to medical costs, which have climbed due to more rescues amid local economic pressures.
The studio’s artists will showcase their work, tying into Fort Wayne’s growing tattoo scene. Recent festivals in the city, like the one at Grand Wayne Convention Center earlier this month, highlight the area’s vibrant art community.
Why Wags and Wiggles Needs Support
Wags and Wiggles operates as a nonprofit focused on rescuing dogs and finding them homes in Fort Wayne and nearby areas. They handle everything from stray pickups to medical treatments, often dealing with injured or sick animals that require expensive care.
Medical bills can add up fast. For instance, emergency surgeries for broken legs or other issues might cost thousands per animal. In recent months, the group has seen a spike in cases, partly from increased pet abandonments linked to rising living costs in Indiana.
This fundraiser targets those expenses directly. By teaming with a local business, they reach new supporters who might not attend traditional charity drives. Similar efforts in other cities have shown how creative partnerships boost donations and awareness.
The rescue’s work extends beyond events. They host adoption days and community outings, like their spots at local baseball games and Halloween walks, to connect pets with families.
Impact of Past Fundraisers
Previous collaborations have made a real difference for Wags and Wiggles. The first event with White Fox last year brought in enough to cover treatments for several dogs, including one that needed major surgery after an accident.
Community response has been strong. Local news outlets have spotlighted their efforts, naming them as top helpers in animal care. This recognition helps draw volunteers and donors, strengthening their mission.
Looking at broader trends, animal rescues across the U.S. face similar challenges. Data from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals shows that vet costs rose by about 10 percent in 2024, putting pressure on groups like this one.
In Fort Wayne, partnerships with businesses like tattoo studios tap into younger crowds. These events not only raise money but also educate people on responsible pet ownership.
Here are some key ways past funds have helped:
- Paid for vaccines and checkups for over 50 rescued dogs.
- Covered emergency care for animals hit by cars or facing illnesses.
- Supported spay and neuter programs to control pet populations.
How the Community Can Get Involved
Anyone can play a part in this fundraiser. Showing up on Saturday offers a chance to win prizes while helping animals. If you can’t attend, online donations through the rescue’s channels provide another way to contribute.
Local businesses often join in, offering matched gifts or sponsorships. This year, expect some surprises like guest appearances from adopted pets sharing their stories.
For those interested in more, Wags and Wiggles lists upcoming events on their site. Getting involved could mean volunteering at the event or spreading the word to friends.
| Event Feature | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Raffle Draws | Win tattoos, gift cards, and pet supplies | Throughout the day |
| Games and Activities | Fun challenges for all ages, including pet-themed trivia | Noon to 5 p.m. |
| Food and Drinks | Local vendors serving snacks and beverages | All event long |
| Meet the Rescues | Interact with adoptable dogs and hear success stories | 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. |
Looking Ahead for Animal Welfare in Fort Wayne
This fundraiser fits into a larger push for animal support in the region. With events like the recent pickleball club open house partnering with the rescue, momentum is building.
Experts note that community-driven efforts like this can lower euthanasia rates in shelters. In Indiana, adoption numbers have improved thanks to groups focusing on medical aid.
As costs keep rising, innovative fundraisers become vital. Wags and Wiggles plans more partnerships, possibly expanding to other local spots for future drives.
Share this story with friends who love animals or tattoos, and let us know in the comments if you plan to attend or how you’ve supported local rescues before.
