Saline County Sheriff’s Office K9, Ranger, will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. the vest will be embroidered with the words “Honoring Those Who Served and Sacrificed.” Delivery is expected within 8 to 10 weeks.
The organization was established in 2009, is a 501c3 charity whose mission is to provide these protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially life-saving body armor for four legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. The organization has provided over 4,156 vests to canines in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.
The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the country.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $960 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,744 to $2,283, weighs an average of four to five pounds, and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org or you may mail your contribution to PO Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.