Dogtopia Charity Dog Wash Events Raise Nearly $21K

Throughout the past week locations all over the country, including Herndon's, washed dogs to raise nearly $21,000 for military, police, therapy and service dogs. 

During the events Dogtopia staff and volunteers washed, dried and spritzed more than 1,650 dogs. 

“With the state of the economy and funding cut across the county, it is more important than ever to give back to the working dogs in our communities,” said Amy Nichols, CEO and Founder of Dogtopia in a press release. “I am so excited to see the community involvement and to watch this event grow every year. We are truly making a difference in the lives of these canines and the people who love them.” 

Dogtopia's charity arm, K9 Support, helps police, military and other service dogs get things they need, from infared beacons to specialized equipment for search and rescue dogs. Proceeds from the Herndon and other local events will go to Virginia Task Force 1, an international urban search and rescue team.

Locally, Charity Dog Wash events were held in Tysons Corner, Herndon, Alexandria, Dulles, Manassas and Woodbridge. 

"The Dogtopia annual K9 Support dog wash is our biggest event of the year to raise funds for working dogs. I’m overjoyed to see so many of our locations working together to raise much needed awareness for the loyal canines that are dedicated to humans everyday,” Nichols said. “Most family dogs lead pampered lives, and we want to show our appreciation for those working dogs that strive to protect and support their human counterparts.”

As a whole, Dogtopia has raised more than $100,000 in donations since the start of K9 Support in 2005. For more information on Dogtopia’s Annual Charity Dog Wash, visit their website online.