SALT LAKE COUNT, Utah, May 19, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — Unified Police Department’s K-9 Odin has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
Vested Interest in K-9s sponsored the vest. Established in 2009, the charity’s mission is 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 National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified,” a statement shared by Unified Police says. “Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 6,397 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by both private and corporate donations.”
The program is open to U.S. dogs 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 charity accepts donations, which are tax deductible. A donation of any amount is welcome, but donation of $1,050 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.
