From staff reports DUNCAN – The Duncan Police Department’s K9, Grizz, will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s Inc., city officials said in a news release.
Grizz’s vest was sponsored by David Fisher of Matthews, North Carolina, and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love-Trained to Serve – Loyal Always.” Delivery is expected within 10 weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, established in 2009, is a 501(c) (3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet- and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States, according to the news release. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is made in the United States, custom fitted and certified by the National Institute of Justice.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s has provided over 5,882 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations, according to the news release. 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 United States.
“Our K9 Division is a highly active division whose sole purpose is to make the city of Duncan a safer place to live,” said Police Chief Brian Attaway. “Our K9 teams have had successful deployments in the search for murder weapons and suspects and have been responsible for seizing large amounts of controlled and dangerous substances.
“These canines work alongside their handlers, and it only makes sense that they have the same protection. I would like to thank Master Officer Bailey Webb for putting in the work and Vested Interest in K9’s, Inc for making this donation happen.”
Vested Interest in K9s accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest, according to the news release. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 pounds and comes with a fiveyear warranty.
For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call (508) 824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or donors may mail contributions to PO Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.