Protected pups: IFPD K9s receive donated body armor
Published at | Updated at
The following is a news release from the Idaho Falls Police Department.
IDAHO FALLS — Idaho Falls Police Department’s K9s Argo and Ghost have received bullet and stab protective vests, thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Argo’s vest is sponsored by a fundraiser hosted by CIS Cares of East Greenbush, New York, and is embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by CIS Cares”. K9 Ghost’s vest is sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and is embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of Jinx”.
RELATED | K9 with local police proves to be successful, department forms special task force
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. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,240 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.
RELATED | 23 new vests gifted to Idaho State Police
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. here 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 $985 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of four to five pounds 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.