An annual autumn fundraiser held by the Dane County Humane Society kicks off Saturday at Capital Brewery’s outdoor beer garden in Middleton.

Dogtoberfest will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 7734 Terrace Ave.  This year, a six-legged 5K race will also take place at 9:30 a.m.  Dogs and people can run in the 5K.

Awards in the race will go to the top small, medium and large dogs to finish.  Dogs must be leashed.

Additionally, the event features games, contests, live entertainment and animals.  Glass Nickel Pizza, Sugar River Kettle Corn and cookies from Clasen’s European Bakery will be available for purchase.

In honor of National Dog Week, the Dane County Humane Society will reduce microchip fees for dogs.

National Dog Week began Monday and will continue through Saturday, Sept. 30.  This week, microchips will cost $15, 50 percent off its original price.

Dane County Humane Society emphasized the importance of having dogs wear collars with ID tags in addition to a microchip, said a press release.  This provides multiple formed of identification if owners and pets are separated.

"Pet owners don’t expect their pets to be lost or stolen and they hope that leashes, fences and doors will be enough to keep them safe at home," said Gayle Viney, DCHS Spokeswoman.  The reality is that accidents do happen, and when they do, many owners are unprepared.  "The ID tag provides immediate owner information and the microchip provides back up information if the ID tag is separated from the animal," said Viney.

The Middleton Sustainability Committee will host a free green homes tour Sunday.

The event will take place from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.  Local experts will showcase environmentally friendly practices and technologies to help residents save natural resources and money, said a press release.

Topics covered at the green homes tour include solar energy, geothermal, green construction and environmentally friendly decorating.  Water and electricity conservation, air quality, sustainable landscaping and even backyard chickens will also be discussed.

The tour will begin at the Willy West Co-Op located at 6825 University Ave.  Seven Middleton homes will be features with a wide range of sustainable features indoors and outdoors.