Happy Tails Dog Spa™ announced today that they raised more than $8,500.00 after washing nearly 160 dogs at a special fundraising event last weekend at its headquarters in Vienna, VA.

Back on July 4, Happy Tails Dog Spa™ launched a summer-long campaign to raise money, create awareness and collect donated items to support military dogs and their handlers stationed overseas. All proceeds generated from the dog wash and other fundraising events will help pay for cooling equipment for the dogs and heat-resistant clothing for their handlers.

While the campaign continues through September 5, last weekend's event was huge success.

"There was a 45-minute wait at times, but area dog lovers were undeterred from supporting their troops overseas," said Amy Nichols, President & CEO of Happy to be Here, Inc., the franchise company of Happy Tails Dog Spa™. "Many members of the community visited the event only to donate money and watch the dog wash. It was a spectacular turnout."

The dog wash on Sunday included a steady stream of customers, as four wash stations worked non-stop throughout the afternoon.

Among the donated items collected: 210 pounds of dog bones, 40 pounds of dog treats, 10 pounds of beef jerky, 30 pounds of sunflower seeds, 81 rope toys, 143 tennis balls, 42 flying discs, 1,305 tubes of lip balm and 153 bottles of sunscreen, as well as other supplies.

Happy Tails Dog Spa™ is a nationwide franchise of doggie day care and spa facilities.