Bethesda, MD – For working police dogs across the country, the comforts of home are few and far between. With budget cuts a reality in cities everywhere, animals in law enforcement’s K-9 units can use a little pampering on the job.



That’s why a dozen Dogtopia locations from California to Maryland will simultaneously participate in the company’s fifth annual charity dog wash July 18 and 19 to raise money for local police K-9 units who play an important role in keeping their communities safe.

“We are pleased to expand our mission of raising money for working dogs to animals in our own communities,” said Amy Nichols, CEO and Founder of Dogtopia. “Realizing that budgets in local government have been cut, we want to ensure working police dogs get the supplies necessary to do their job in as much comfort as possible.”

Working police dogs play an important role in detecting narcotics and explosives, search and rescue operations, evidence recovery and criminal apprehension in their communities. In addition, the dog is responsible for protecting their police handlers. Proceeds from the Dogtopia dog washes will defer costs for equipment such as ballistic vests, safety harnesses and the outfitting of cars.

Nichols 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 $30,000 and sent more than 7,000 lbs of supplies overseas. Last year, seven locations participated in the annual dog wash and more than $7,000 was raised.

This year, locations in Manassas, VA; Chantilly, VA; Alexandria, VA; Woodbridge, VA; North Bethesda, MD; Danvers, MA; Waco, TX; Austin, TX; Omaha, NE; North Raleigh, NC; Temecula, CA and San Marcos, CA will participate in the dog wash with a goal of washing at least 100 dogs per location.

"The Dogtopia annual dog wash is our biggest event of the year for K-9 Support. I’m thrilled that so many of our locations are participating and that together we will raise needed funds and awareness for working dogs,” Nichols said. “Most dogs we’re in contact with lead pampered lives. We want to take care of the dogs that watch over us.”

Owners can bring their dogs in for a bath, where both can enjoy food and games. Several local businesses have committed to the fifth annual dog wash through donations and representation, including major players in the local canine industry. A $10 per dog wash donation is requested. Proceeds will go to the local Dogtopia franchisee’s organization of choice. For more information on Dogtopia’s Fifth Annual Charity Dog Wash, please visit www.k9support.org.