Shed your inhibitions

It’s August: Let the charity dog washes begin! First up is one to benefit service dogs, sponsored by national dog day care franchise Dogtopia, specifically the Dogtopia in Highlands Ranch. The first such fundraiser was held in 2005, and led to the founding of K-9 Support Inc., which supports working and service dogs of all stripes. Dogtopia’s contributions nationally add up ($80,000 a day) and have been used to train and equip police, military, search-and-rescue and other service animals. The dirty details: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at 6448 E. County Line Road; $15 suggested donation.

They get washed, you get wine

If your dirty dog’s dance card is full Saturday, save the date for the “Wine, Washes & Wagging Tails” dog wash to benefit the Evergreen Animal Protective League, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. July 29 in the drive-through lane of Evergreen National Bank, 28145 Colorado 74. Creekside Cellars is providing a glass of wine for you while Fido gets his new look. This wash is $20, unless, of course, you decide the dog’s not the only one who needs a little styling action (TallGrass Aveda Spa and Salon is one of the co-sponsors.)

Trimmed and, er, tutored

Responsible pit-bull “parents” are a special breed. During August, they get a special break: the Fort Collins Cat Rescue & Spay/Neuter Clinic will spay or neuter up to 45 pit bulls or pit-bull terrier mix dogs at a special rate: $20, which includes a free nail trim. The offer is subject to availability, and those taking advantage must mention the “Primp Your Pit (bull)” promotion when they make an appointment (FCCRSNC.org or 970-484-1861). It’s not the cats who are pushing spay/neuter; in addition to being a no-kill cat shelter, the clinic offers low-cost sterilization and other veterinary services.