The Delphi Police Department’s K-9 Remington will soon receive a donated bullet- and stab-protective vest thanks to a charitable contribution from the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
According to the department, the vest is being sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. in memory of Don Fike. Delivery is expected within the next eight to 10 weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, established in 2009, is a national nonprofit organization that provides protective vests and other assistance to law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. Since its founding, the organization has supplied more than 6,600 vests valued at more than $6.9 million to K-9 units in all 50 states through private and corporate donations.
The organization says its program is open to U.S. law enforcement dogs at least 20 months old that are actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K-9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K-9s serving throughout the United States.
The vest being provided to Remington has a value of approximately $1,000 and is custom fitted. Each vest features a five-year warranty and weighs an average of 4 to 5 pounds. The body armor is manufactured in the United States.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to protecting law enforcement K-9s by providing protective equipment and other support through donations.