From staff reports DUNCAN – The Duncan Police Department’s K9, Blu, will receive a bullet- and stab-protective vest, thanks to a charitable donation from the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s Inc., city off icials said in a news release.
K9 Blu’s vest will be embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s Inc.” Delivery is expected within 10 weeks.
Established in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s is a Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet- and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs of l aw enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States, according to the news release. The potentially lifesaving body armor for K9 dogs is U.S. made, custom fitted and National Institute of Justice certified.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s has provided over 6,074 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by both private and corporate donations, according to the news release. The program is open to U.S. dogs who 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 United States.
Vested Interest in K9s accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1,800, weighs an average of 4 to 5 po unds and comes with a f ive-year warranty.
For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, call (508) 824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s provides information, lists events and accepts donations at www.vik9s. org, or donors may mail contributions to PO Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.