Piqua Police Department’s K-9 Pako will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K-9 Pako’s vest was sponsored by Susan Haque of Grand Rapids, MI, and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Born to Love-Trained to Serve-Loyal Always.” Delivery is expected within 10 weeks.
K-9 Pako plays a critical role in supporting our officers and strengthening the services we provide to the community,” Police Chief Rick Byron said. “This donation helps ensure Pako has the protection he deserves while he serves the residents of Piqua, and we are grateful for the generosity of Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission 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 K-9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 6,225 vests valued at $6.9 million to K-9s 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, 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.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest. Each vest has a value of $1800, weighs an average of 4-5 lbs. 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, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
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Photo:K-9 Pako and his handler, Officer Garret Lotz, pose for a photo.