Central Nova News

The Alexandria Police Department’s K9 Axl will soon be receiving a generous donation of a bullet and stab protective vest. The donation is being made by the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The vest will be embroidered with the sentiment “In memory of K9 Hobbs, Des Moines, IA - EOW 12/12/23”. Delivery of the vest is expected within eight to ten weeks.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charity that was established in 2009 with the mission to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies across the United States. The body armor provided by the organization is custom fitted, NIJ certified, and made in the USA. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has donated over 5,379 vests to K9s in all 50 states, with a total value of $6.9 million. This has been made possible through 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. Even K9s with expired vests are eligible to participate. It is estimated that there are approximately 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.

Individuals can contribute to Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. through tax-deductible donations in any amount. A single donation of $985 will fully sponsor the cost of one vest, which has a value of $1800. Each vest weighs an average of 4-5 lbs and comes with a five-year warranty.

For more information about the organization, volunteer opportunities, or to make a donation, individuals can contact Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. at 508-824-6978. Information about events and online donations can also be found on their website at www.vik9s.org. Contributions can also be mailed to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

In a statement, the Alexandria Police Department expressed their gratitude for the generous donation and the protection it will provide to K9 Axl. They are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of their K9 officers, and this donation will further support their efforts.

The donation of the bullet and stab protective vest to K9 Axl by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a testament to the importance of providing adequate protection to law enforcement K9s who put their lives on the line to serve and protect our communities.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.alexandriava.gov/news-apd/2023-12-15/the-alexandria-police-departments-k9-axl-to-get-donation-of-body-armor