Central Nova News

The Alexandria Police Department's K9 Axl has received a protective vest, thanks to a donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The vest was sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and is embroidered with the sentiment "In memory of K9 Hobbs, Des Moines, IA - EOW 12/12/23."

K9 Axl is part of the Alexandria Police Department's K9 Unit, which supports various sections of the department by searching for suspects and evidence, tracking individuals, and detecting narcotics or explosives. Born on March 16, 2019, in the Netherlands, Axl began training with the department in March 2020 and graduated from patrol school in July 2020. He further trained in explosive ordinance detection and graduated in August 2022.

Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) charity, aims to provide bullet and stab protective vests to law enforcement dogs across the United States. Since its founding, it has supplied over 5,514 vests valued at $6.9 million through private and corporate donations.

The program caters to U.S. dogs that are at least 20 months old and actively employed with law enforcement agencies. Dogs with expired vests are also eligible for new ones. There are approximately 30,000 law enforcement K9s nationwide.

Donations to Vested Interest in K9s can be made tax-deductible; $985 sponsors one vest valued at $1,800 each. For more information or volunteer opportunities call 508-824-6978 or visit www.vik9s.org.