SOUTH JORDAN, Utah, Nov. 20, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — K-9s Ikon and Oli will be safer as they serve the South Jordan Police Department after a donation of armor vests to help protect them from stab and bullet injuries.
The vests were donated by non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Both vests were sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of K9 Hobbs, Des Moines, IA EOW 12-12-23.”
The mission of the charity organization, established in 2009, is to “provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States,” says a news release issued by the South Jordan PD.
“This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K-9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and NIJ certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 5,794 vests to K-9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million, made possible by both private and corporate donations.”
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. K-9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K-9s throughout the United States, the release says.
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 $1,800, weighs an average of 4-5 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.
