MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Police Department’s K9 Riki will soon receive a bullet- and stab-protective vest, thanks to a charitable donation from the nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
The vest, sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., will be embroidered with the message: “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.” Delivery of the custom-fitted armor is expected within 10 weeks.
Founded in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides lifesaving body armor and other assistance to law enforcement and related agency dogs across the United States. The vests are U.S.-made, NIJ-certified, and tailored to fit each K9 officer.
Since its inception, the organization has donated more than 6,225 vests, worth over $6.9 million, to K9 units in all 50 states. These efforts are made possible through private and corporate contributions.
The program is open to U.S. law enforcement K9s that are at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with their agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s serving throughout the country.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible donations of any amount, and a contribution of $1,050 sponsors one vest (valued at $1,800). Each vest weighs approximately 4–5 pounds and carries a five-year warranty.
For more information or to make a donation, visit www.vik9s.org, call (508) 824-6978, or mail contributions to:
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.
P.O. Box 9
East Taunton, MA 02718
-30-
For more information contact:
Steve Snider
Assistant Chief of Police
Public Safety Building
312 E. 5th Street
Muscatine, Iowa 52761
ssnider@muscatineiowa.gov