Thanks to a non-profit organization that provides protective gear for K9 officers, a K9 that serves with the Banks County Sheriff's Office will soon receive some new equipment.
K9 Macho will receive a bullet and stab protective vest from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., according to information released recently by Banks County Sheriff Carlton Speed.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., 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. The potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 is U.S. made, custom fitted and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided more than 4,004 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.
Speed said the non-profits will make sure Macho’s vest is embroidered with the sentiment "In memory of K9 Gabo, Jonesboro, AR EOW 1/16/20."
Delivery of K9 Macho's vest is expected in the next 10 weeks.
The program is open to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old, 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, 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-$2,283, weighs an average of 4-5 lb., and comes with a five-year 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 you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
