by Lynn Wolstenholme

Dogs Giving Back To Dogs

For military dogs overseas, it's no walk in the park. Sniffing out bombs, patrolling checkpoints and working long hours in harsh desert conditions are the daily tasks of these life-saving canines. That's why Dogtopia of Dulles, along with six other locations around the country, will simultaneously participate in the company's fourth annual charity dog wash on July 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to raise funds to provide care packages for canines serving their country.

Dogtopia of Dulles is at 3850 Suite D Dulles South Court, Chantilly.

Owners can bring their dogs in for a bath, and both can enjoy food and games. Several local businesses have committed to the fourth annual dog wash through donations and representation, including several major players in the local canine industry. A $10 per dog wash donation is requested. Proceeds will go to care packages for handlers and their dogs.

With more than 1,000 military dogs in active service in Iraq and Afghanistan, Dogtopia -- a locally based, full-service dog daycare, spa and boarding facility -- will wash local dogs to raise money for toys, treats and other canine comforts. Locations in Tysons Corner; Manassas; Chantilly; Alexandria; North Bethesda, Md.; and Clarksville, Md.; as well as a location in Texas, will participate in the dog wash with a goal of washing at least 100 dogs per location.

Amy Nichols, founder and CEO of Dogtopia, began her campaign to raise awareness for military dogs -- as well as working dogs of all kinds -- in July 2005. To accommodate the success of the campaign, she established a permanent charitable wing of her company called K-9 Support. To date, K-9 Support has raised more than $25,000 and sent more than 5,000 pounds of supplies overseas.

"The Dogtopia annual dog wash is our biggest event of the year for K-9 Support," Nichols said. "I'm thrilled that seven locations are coming together to wash hundreds of dogs around the country and raise awareness about the often-forgotten military dogs overseas.

"Most dogs we're in contact with lead very pampered lives. They have everything from gourmet treats to luxurious beds, not to mention something as simple as air conditioning. We want to give working dogs some of those same comforts. They like toys and treats too, and hosting the dog wash is a way to provide them with some relief in the form of thoughtful care packages."

For more information on Dogtopia's Fourth Annual Charity Dog Wash, please visit www.k9support.org.

© The Loudoun Times-Mirror 2008