JACKSONVILLE, AL — Jacksonville State University Police Department’s K9 Daphne will soon receive new safety equipment thanks to a donation from the national nonprofit Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The organization has sponsored a custom-fitted bullet and stab protective vest for Daphne, with delivery expected within ten weeks.
The vest will be embroidered with the message, “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”
Founded in 2009, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to providing bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to working K9s across the United States. The U.S.-made, NIJ-certified vests are designed specifically for law enforcement dogs and weigh approximately 4–5 pounds. Each vest carries a value of $1,800 and includes a five-year warranty.
Since its inception, the organization has donated more than 6,225 protective vests—valued at $6.9 million—to K9s in all 50 states. The program supports dogs that are at least 20 months old, actively working and certified, as well as K9s whose previous vests have expired. Nationwide, an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s serve with agencies each year.
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. accepts tax-deductible donations of any amount, with a single contribution of $1,050 sponsoring one protective vest. More information, volunteer opportunities, and donation options are available at www.vik9s.org. The organization can also be reached by phone at (508) 824-6978, or by mail at P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.
