Euclid Police Department’s K9 Chase has received a bullet and stab proof vest
The Euclid Police Department’s K9 Chase has received a ballistic vest thanks to a non profit organization, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., and Deanna Bleckrie, Tucson, AZ resident provided $1900.00 for the vests. The 2nd vest has been awarded to Owingsville Police Department, KY K9 Searcy. The vests will be embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of Big Jake and Ringo”.
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 and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. Each vest costs $950.00 and has a 5 year warranty. The nonprofit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially life saving body armor for their four legged K9 Officers. Through private and corporate sponsorships, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provided over 1517 law enforcement dogs in 49 states with protective vests since 2009 at a cost of over $1.4 million dollars.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. announces their signature tank top is now available online for a $20.00 donation at www.vik9s.org. Proceeds will provide bullet and stab protective vests, for police dogs actively working without the potentially lifesaving equipment.
The organization orders the U.S. made vests exclusively from distributor Regency Police Supply in Hyannis, MA. who also does the custom embroidery on the body armor. Vests are manufacturer by Armor Express in Central Lake, MI.
New K9 graduates as well as K9’s with expired vests are eligible to participate. The program is open to law enforcement dogs who are US employed, certified and at least 19 months of age.
For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Tax deductible donations accepted via mail to: Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. P.O. Box 9 East Taunton, MA 02718 or via the website: www.vik9s.org.