K-9 “X” recently received a ballistic vest thanks to a nonprofit organization, Vested Interest in K9s. X is a four year old Belgian Malinois that is trained in narcotics detection, tracking and criminal apprehension. He and his human partner, Officer Jeremy Stevens, have been working together for over two years. They are certified through the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association and the National Police Canine Association. X and Officer Stevens are a vital part of our Department’s commitment to making our community a safe place to live and work.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a Massachusetts based nonprofit organization and Armor Express, a Michigan based manufacturer. An incentive program is offered by Armor Express of Central Lake, MI. to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. For every 15 vests purchased by the charity, a free vest was awarded.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c (3) charity located in East Taunton, MA. whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests for law enforcement dogs throughout the United States. Each vest costs $950.00 and has a 5 year warranty. The non-profit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four legged K9 officers. Through private and corporate sponsorships, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 1198 law enforcement dogs with protective vests since their inception in August of 2009. Over $1,138,100.00 in K9 vests have been donated in 40 states including Alaska and Hawaii.
The organization orders the Armor Express vests made in Central Lake, MI exclusively from distributor Regency Supply in Hyannis, MA. who also does the custom embroidery on the body armor.
New K9 graduates as well as K9’s with expired vests are eligible to apply for the ballistic vests. The program is open to US employed and certified K9’s who are at least 19 months of age.
For more information on our organization, please visit our website @ www.vik9s.org, or call 508-824-6978. Donations may be made by mail to Vested Interest in K9’s, Inc. P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA. 02718 and they may also be made by visiting the website.