Indiana State Police K9 Rich will soon have an additional layer of protection thanks to a charitable donation from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
K9 Rich will receive a bullet and stab protective vest sponsored by Heather and David Jans of Mundelein, Illinois. The vest will be embroidered with the sentiment, “This gift of protection provided by Heather and DJ.”
Delivery of the custom-fitted vest is expected within approximately 10 weeks.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2009 with a mission of providing bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to law enforcement and related agency K9s throughout the United States.
The potentially lifesaving body armor is made in the United States, custom fitted and certified by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ).
Since its founding, Vested Interest in K9s has provided more than 6,631 protective vests, valued at approximately $6.9 million, to K9s in all 50 states. The program is made possible through private and corporate donations.
The organization estimates there are approximately 30,000 law enforcement K9s working throughout the United States.
Donations Help Protect K9 Officers
The Vested Interest in K9s program is available to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old, actively employed and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired protective vests are also eligible.
Tax-deductible contributions are accepted in any amount, while a $1,050 donation will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of approximately $1,800, weighs an average of 4 to 5 pounds and comes with a five-year warranty.
More information about Vested Interest in K9s, volunteer opportunities, events and donations is available at Vested Interest in K9s.
The organization can also be contacted at (508) 824-6978 or by mail at:
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
P.O. Box 9
East Taunton, MA 02718
The donation will provide K9 Rich with added protection while serving alongside Indiana State Police officers.
