From staff reports DUNCAN – The Duncan Police Department’s K9, Blu, has received 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.
Blu’s vest was embroidered with the statement “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s Inc.”
Vested Interest in K9s, which was established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity that provides bullet- and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. The potentially lifesaving body armor for K9s is U.S. made, custom fitted and certified by the National Institute of Justice.
Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s has provided more than 6,225 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by 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, according to the news release. Each vest has a value of $1,800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 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 provides information, lists events and accepts donations at www. vik9s.org, or donors may mail their contributions to PO Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.